The kids are out, the weather is great and you’re wondering what you can do with your days off on a limited budget. We’ve got ten affordable destinations to places that you may not have considered because you thought it was too expensive. Well, think again. Check out our cost-cutting picks to start your journey.
World-class restaurants, themed accommodations, and a game of chance awaits visitors to Las Vegas, but less flights and conventions has left Sin City in a financial tizzy. Frommers.com, an online travel guide, has seen on-strip hotels like Harrah’s for $35.00 per night. “To get the best hotel price, research online what you want to pay, call the hotel manager (never the 800#), and pitch them directly,” advises Frommer’s.
Philly is showing the love with hotel packages offering stays starting at $77.00 per night. After experiencing the new, cutting-edge exhibit “Audacious Freedom: African Americans in Philadelphia 1776 –1876” at the newly renovated African-American Museum in Philadelphia, get your glow on at Ursala’s About PHace (known for their customized, natural facials) and enjoy a soulful meal at Ms. Toosies. Then cap off your night with a sexy champagne cocktail at restaurant and champagne bar Swanky Bubbles.
With a diverse offering of international cities and lovely countryside, a drop in Canada’s currency rate is definite incentive to zip up north for a visit. Toronto is offering a “Best Available Weekend Rates” package from $99.00 for most hotels so you can experience the city’s famous $5.00 Peameal Bacon sandwich from Carousel Bakery without wallet worries.
Buenos Aires, Argentina, is often called the Paris of Latin America, and is known for its succulent steak houses. This amazing city is a real value; rooms at the ultra-hip 1551 Palermo Boutique Hotel start at just $50.00 USD per night which leaves you with plenty of money to go to Sugar and Spice on Guatemala street for the most decadent, homemade cookies in the city.
Breathtaking Iceland used to be one of the most expensive places to visit, but due to its banking collapse, you can experience this country’s famous Blue Lagoon Thermal pool and chic gourmet food. Frommer’s has found 2-day packages from as low as $499.00 per person (base price) including airfare.
Known for its beautiful beaches, exciting safaris and lush vineyards, South Africa has been a “must-see, but can’t afford” for many Americans. Change is good. The rand (the Southe African dollar) has gone down in value resulting in hotels stays in the $50.00 USD range, but you may want to save up for this one. The 17-hour flight still comes in costly at around $1,100 round trip from New York.
For those of you who have always wanted to experience the land down under, now is the time. A drop in airfares and a more favorable exchange rate make it possible for you to split your week between Sydney and Auckland. Round-trip airfare into Sydney and out of Auckland, three nights at the Ibis World Square in Sydney, three nights at the Mercure Auckland, and breakfast daily, starts at $999 per person (plus taxes, according to BudgetTravel.com).
Surprise! Yes, the Hawaiian paradise has become much less expensive with Aloha and ATA airlines going bankrupt, causing 25 percent fewer flights to the island and less tourists. Round-trip airfare from LAX to Hawaii starts at $367. Think about this: the housing crisis coupled with the lack of vacationers has condo owners very willing to negotiate a good rate.
Described as paradise by many, New Zealand is on the visit wish list of many travelers and fans of “Xena: Warrior Princess” (c’mon, admit it, you used to love that show). Resort hotels in Queenstown average at U.S. $80 per night (some less) and the beneficial U.S. dollar to New Zealand dollar exchange rates make this a great pick.
This town brings forth the inner diva in us all. Palm Beach offers a relaxing environment in a lovely setting and the opulent, newly renovated Breakers Resort really knows how to spoil a girl. With special offers starting at $199.00 per night (down from $ 410.00), this beachfront tropical oasis offers you free wireless Internet, tennis and access to a spa voted by Conde Naste readers as one of the top 25 spas in the U.S. Offer good June 1–September 30, 2009.
