Though it’s 2,544 miles from the North Pole, the amazing Seattle studio of sound artist Trimpin features delights that would addle Santa’s elves. And it’s all yours (well, for a visit), with all expenses paid for a party of four. Fly from L.A. to Seattle, then enjoy two nights at the posh Rainier Club and a dinner at the Union Restaurant, with complimentary wine. Trimpin says he’s “extending the traditional boundaries” of music with his marvelous creations. Well, this prize extends your traditional boundaries of fun. Timing depends on Trimpin’s schedule. Expires 5/3/10.

Our thanks to the Shanbrom Family, Jim & Kathy Drummy, and Russ Irwin.

What recession? You’ll find the white sands, warm sun and glorious surf of Hawaii’s Big Island are just the antidote for the economic blahs – especially if you don’t have to pay for it. And you don’t! In addition to free air transportation, you and a companion will be treated to five splendid days at a luxury condo in Mauna Lani Resort, where ocean-front bungalows rent for $3,800 a night. Nearby you’ll find all the amenities: golf, tennis, spas and fine dining (cost not included). Not available Nov. 15, 2009 to Jan. 15, 2010, and March 19 to April 30, 2010. Expires 10/3/10.

Thanks for the generosity of Tom & Esther Wachtell and Sue Bienkowski & Wang Lee.

Here’s your chance to catch up on all those dinner obligations you piled up last winter, without lifting a finger. You’ll entertain nine guests with a catered five-course gourmet dinner at Hacienda Alegre, the hilltop hideaway of Lois Rice, overlooking beautiful Lake Casitas and the western Ojai Valley. Chef Peggy Russell and staff will cook and serve, with vintage cabernet sauvignon provided by the Dufau Vineyard. To make the evening perfect, pianist Fern Barishman will provide a dreamy musical background.

With thanks to Lois Rice, Fern Barishman, Peggy Russell and Don & Mark Dufau.

The renowned Glyndebourne Opera Festival in Sussex, England has been going since 1934, and its programs just get better and better. This package offers you and a friend air fare and seats in the general director’s box at Glyndebourne for the August 13 production of Dvorak’s charming folk-fairy tale,“Rusalka” conducted by Czech maestro Jirí Belohlávek. Afterward, you can soak up the lush countryside of Sussex or pop up to London for more culture . . . or across the Channel to Normandy for a Gallic adventure. Timing to coincide with the August 13 production of “Rusalka.”

Thanks to the Glyndebourne Opera Festival and Grant Barnes.

Nothing beats a home-cooked meal – especially if gourmet chefs are doing the cooking. This package offers a five-course dinner for eight, personally prepared and served in the comfort of your home by Chris and Laurel Abbott and their Savory ‘n’ Thyme catering team. Their diverse, seasonally appropriate menu features locally grown, organic foods prepared “just so” and served with remarkable flair. The downside? You’ll be expected to entertain this way from now on. Good for a year.

Thanks to Savory ‘n’ Thyme and Chris & Laurel Abbott.

Cambria is the jewel of the central California coast, blending a rugged shoreline with fragrant pine forests and tons of charm. Enjoy five nights of pure escapism in a roomy cottage for six just half a block from the ocean, with nearby walking trails, famous Moonstone Beach and the looming Hearst Castle a few miles up the road. In the village itself are distinctive boutiques, art galleries and restaurants featuring gourmet food and wine. Best of all, you won’t need your passport or a plane ticket. Expires 5/3/10.

Thanks to John & Peggy Russell and Mike & Anne Morris.