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Budget travel for trying times

Posted November 12, 2008 , trackback

This is a good time to once more explore travel products and destinations that will provide you with a good vacation without depleting your savings account. Many people agree, in times of stress, relaxing away from home is a requirement to maintain one’s good health and sanity. The dilemma is where to go for the total escape you need without cleaning out your bank account. Here are some tips for budget minded fall and winter travel:- Choose an off-season destination. The Caribbean, Mexico, a cruise, Florida, Hawaii, Central and South America and early season ski resorts are great selections for the autumn. Right now there are savings, up to 35 percent, in Central America (Belize, Costa Rica, etc.) and the Caribbean. Air travel and resort stays have been greatly discounted from now until mid- December. Think Europe in the winter, a cruise or land tour is more economical than at any other time of the year. You might consider the heel of the Italian boot, which is off the beaten track but provides for warmth with good food and wine. Think medieval towns, cave dwellings, sweeping rural landscapes and quaint fishing villages. You will also meet truly happy to meet you people. Now that is a stress release idea!
- Be flexible with your dates. Avoid traveling on weekends and during holidays.
- Check fares from all airports within a 100-mile radius of your home. It might be worth driving further for an affordable departure or arrival airport.
- Book flights at off-peak times, such as early in the morning or overnight (the “redeye”)
- Pick great value spots where there are lots of hotels and resorts competing for your travel dollar. Places like Las Vegas, Miami and Cancun might fit the bill.
- Book a package that includes many vacation elements, such as flights, hotel/resort, cruise, car or transfers and taxes. A travel agent can usually roll all these holiday pieces into a package that can save you money and be paid for in advance of your trip.
- Or just stay closer to home. Drive to a fabulous resort or city and see something special on a road trip.
Remember no matter what time of year you travel, no matter what your budget, or length of trip the help of a travel agent is the best insurance that you can buy. When or if problems arise you have an advocate, someone to help in a time of crisis. You won’t have any problem solvers on your side should you book your trip online.
The bottom line when something goes wrong such as an airline snafu or a natural disaster, a travel agent is your best source of help. Beyond assistance in a crisis, these are advantages of reserving your vacation through a travel agency: Knowledge and counsel, tie savings, the ability to search for good deals and airline tricks/supplier know how.
Plan a budget escape with the confidence your travel professional will have your best interests at heart.

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