Summer is nearly over, so thoughts quickly turn to winter and what we'll do with our free time. Though we're still mired in a recession, and swine flu is expected to make another appearance, many people will still take a vacation. I plan to, sometime in October. Like most travelers, I will be hoping to stretch my vacation dollar by looking for the best deal. My preference is for an all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean. You may have totally different tastes. Regardless, heed the advice of travel experts, and search out those great deals.
The Aug. 21-23 issue of USA WEEKEND magazine carried a great article by Samantha Brown of the Travel Channel. I'll summarize some of her points, and provide a few comments of my own.
1. Choose a place with all-in-one pricing, such as an all-inclusive resort. Time was when all-inclusives were "lampooned" by travelers. (Still are to a certain extent, I've found, especially among some travel writers.) Now, she writes, they are considered "hip." One big advantage is that "you know all your costs up front." I agree. It's nice to be able to grab some food, a soda, or other pick-me-up throughout the day without having to scrounge through your pockets for cash or worry whether those little purchases will ultimately bust your budget.
An all-inclusive resort naturally costs more than a standard resort, but I think you'll find the convenience well worth it. You've paid good money to get there, now just sit back (or lay back) and enjoy the sun. Vacationing is all about escaping routines and decision making. Try to arrange for the most relaxed and stress-free environment possible.
Brown also suggests checking out what she calls "a la carte resorts." Those are traditional resorts that offer additional amenities, such as meals and drinks, under an optional meal plan. I'd compare pricing, though, between an all-inclusive resort and one offering the meal plan. You may find that for the price of the all-inclusive, you'll want to make that leap. Still, it's nice to know there's an option between the two types of hotels.
2. Take a cruise. Cruising has become very popular, and the cruise lines are responding by packing an ever-increasing array of services on board. They are essentially all-inclusive trips, though drinks and some services are extra. Brown says that the industry has added 15 ships since last year, with five more expected to be launched this year. She adds that these new ships will need customers, which means lower prices. Another plus is that ships will be docking at more port cities. You can expect to reach one cheaper, as as result.
As a Midwesterner, I have to fly to the coast to take a cruise, but those of you near the coasts may save big on your airfare. Cruising has really established itself, if articles by the "cruisers" themselves are any indication. Some travel writers denounce the phenomenon, saying that cruise ships are basically floating cities. ("Why even get off the ship and tour the islands?" they complain.) It comes down to personal preference. Those who enjoy meeting distant peoples in distant lands will always be able to take such a trip. Those can be expensive in both time and money. A cruise can get you and your family away for some quality time at a reasonable price.
3. Check out the city. Yes, the city, Brown suggests. We often forget what's in our own "backyard." Museums, concerts, festivals, and more await us. Many are free or low cost. Research hotels for any hot deals they have going on the weekends. Many cater to the business crowd, and need folks to fill the rooms on the weekends.
Reading this suggestion reminded me of the opportunities in downtown Milwaukee, which is about 20 minutes from my home. Two great museums, an IMAX theater, an educational facility geared around the Great Lakes (and a schooner to ride in summer), and so much more. Each charges admission, and I still have to pay for parking, but one can take in a lot of fun and enjoyment for comparatively little expenditure in those types of venues.
As you begin thinking about your next vacation, consider the numerous options available to you. Some are near; some are far. Use your computer and/or travel agent to seek out a fun and enjoyable place at a reasonable price. You will be so glad you did.
by Tom Fuszard
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