Consider smaller cities for more immersive and affordable accommodations
Big cities are known to have an endless array of activities and options, but they can sometimes be expensive.
Smaller cities offer some fun and unique experiences that you won’t find in big cities, while still allowing you to spend more on your vacation.
Destinations like Lexington, Kentucky, which calls itself the “Horse Capital of the World” for its wealth of equine-themed attractions, are hidden gems that offer something for everyone.
VisitLEX President Mary Quinn Ramer describes Lexington as “full of mouth-watering food, brilliant art, stunning scenery and a thriving spiritual scene.”
Lexington, Kentucky, USA. A winding country road through the fall landscape of Kentucky’s Bluegrass region near Lexington
Cruise ships offer great value for the whole family
Cruise ships are better than ever, and despite skyrocketing prices, cruise lines are still offering some great deals. Cruises bring it all together – a new destination, affordable prices, ease and an all-inclusive price that leaves you high and dry.
Brett Keller, CEO of Priceline, offered a suggestion, “If you’re looking for more convenience, local cruises from many ports across the country require no airfare and are the perfect vacation destination for multi-generational experiences for the entire family.”
He shares that one night at a three-star hotel is the equivalent of one night on a cruise ship, and you can enjoy world-class cuisine and entertainment en route to a variety of destinations.
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Cruises in port. Aerial view of the beautiful Great White Ship at sunset.
Experience Traveling Alone
Traveling alone can be daunting for some, but it can bring many rewards.
Traveling alone allows you to spend your vacation at your own pace, choosing activities that best suit your interests while meeting new friends and like-minded travelers.
Octavia Marginean-Tahiroglu, general manager of the New York Marriott Travelodge, recommends cities like Antonio, Texas; Nashville, Tennessee; and Charleston, South Carolina, whether it’s shopping, skiing, art galleries, museums or hiking to keep you busy.
“For the best solo travel experience, know what your destination offers and buy tickets to attractions in advance, but stay flexible and open-minded if things don’t go as planned,” she advises.
Young women exploring the beach with hats and backpacks
Traveling close to home has many benefits
Just because your destination is close to home doesn’t mean you won’t feel separated from it.
Road trips save money on airfare, and with the abundance of lakes and beach destinations in the U.S., there are some breathtaking attractions just a short drive away.
HomeToGo’s travel expert Caroline Burns says vacationers can find great vacation rental rates in delightful destinations they’ve never considered before.
She recommends “the quaint town of Madeira Beach on Florida’s west coast, known locally as ‘Crazy Beach,’ which offers affordable median accommodations for budget-conscious travelers at $83.50 per night.”
