Who doesn't love a great vacation? Unfortunately, vacations are as expensive as they are relaxing and fun. Statistics show that with the current economic crunch, fewer and fewer people are spending the money for a vacation. However, vacations can help reduce stress, giving you a valued break from your typical work and home responsibilities. Vacations do not have to be over the top and pricey. Check out this list of the best budget vacation destinations:
Disney World
On the surface, a trip to Disney World seems rather pricey, but if you are close enough to drive or fly there affordably, this is actually a great option. Disney wants to attract families of all sizes, so they have a number of pulled-together vacation packages that include hotel, transportation, and access to the park. You can even find packages that include meal plans and memorabilia allowances! Log onto their website today – and keep an open mind about the prices you see. They seem expensive at first, but do not forget that this is an all-inclusive vacation package – you will not have to spend another dime if you do not want to!
The Appalachian Mountains
If you love vacationing in the mountains, skip an expensive ski trip to the Rockies and consider the Appalachian Mountains in the east. They aren't nearly as tall and impressive, but the skiing and camping options are still great and you'll be able to find lodging at a fraction of the cost. The Pocono Mountains, part of the mountain range, found in Pennsylvania, is especially inviting to tourists. Many ski resorts along the entire range convert to water parks in the summertime, so this mountain getaway is great no matter what time of year it may be.
Delaware and Oregon beaches
When you want to go to the beach, you probably immediately think California on the west coast and the Carolinas on the east coast. However, think outside of the box and travel to some of the lesser-known states instead. You'll find much more affordable deals in states like Oregon and Delaware. For example, you can easily find a peak-season beach house on Delaware's Dewey or Rehobeth beach for under $1700 a week. When you consider that 10+ people can stay in a large house like those available at these beaches, it is not a bad price at all! The trick is to head to smaller beaches that are fairly close to your home – many of the beaches without boardwalks do not charge a fee to get on the sand. If you are not close to either coast, you can also consider heading to a local lake or river and you will still get that “fun in the sun” feeling, without spending an arm and a leg on traveling.
The Great Lakes Region
People usually think that states like Michigan are cold and do not cater to tourists, but the Great Lake region of the United States is beautiful during the summer. Costs in this area are much lower than in more popular destinations, like Virginia, but you can still have a great time on the water with sailing, jet-skiing, fishing, and other water sports. Hotels and food are typically less expensive as well, even during the tourist season, so it is a win-win situation.
Puerto Rico
Traveling nationally is always going to be less expensive than traveling internationally. If you have to take that trip to the Caribbean, consider choosing an all-inclusive resort in Puerto Rico. Like with a Disney trip, going all-inclusive may sticker-shock you at first, but remember – you won't have to spend a single dime while you're there. Most resorts even include free drinks, as well as tons of entertainment options. As an added bonus, you will not need a passport when traveling to Puerto Rico.
Remember, travel is not the only way to enjoy a vacation. You can also have a great low-budget vacation if you simply take one week off from work and relax in the comfort of your home. You may also choose to stay in a local hotel allowing you to visit the attractions of your own city. This allows you to get to know your own city again, while having the ability to sleep in. Pursue your favorite hobbies while checking out local tourist destinations, especially those that you loved as a child. Sometimes this is the best kind of vacation of all because in addition to being low-cost, it is also less stressful. You do not have to pay for transportation, you know where the best low-cost restaurants are located, and you do not have to spend days planning your trip.
A vacation is a great way to relax from the stress of your daily routine. There are several ways to plan a vacation depending on your destination and budget. You can choose from local beaches and landmarks to a more exotic location such as the Caribbean. Whichever type of vacation you choose; it will be a refreshing and rewarding experience for you and your family.
Careful planning is essential when taking a trip with your family. For parents with younger children, it's imperative to plan for the worst. Kids tend to get sick at inopportune moments, and vacation time is no exception. That's why it's always a good idea to pack cough syrup, aspirin, or any other common cold remedy to use at the first sign of illness.
If you and the family are flying, it's often best to plan an early morning trip. There are a greater number of delays as the day goes on, which can increase the likelihood of children becoming antsy. Also, try to reserve aisle seats or seats near the bulkhead, which provide more leg room.
Planning the trip together with your children is also a way to ensure a smooth trip. Children, especially teenagers, will feel more involved with the vacation and likely cut down on complaints over the course of your trip.
Family Vacation Tip: Establish an Emergency Plan
Emergency planning is an often-overlooked, but key part of preparing for a family vacation. Before you embark on your trip, it's good to go over with your children what to do in case of an emergency. Memorizing important numbers and addresses of where you're staying can help prevent further complications in the case of separation, especially with young children.
Ideal Destinations for Family Vacations
When traveling with the family, it's important to keep in mind that not all destinations are family-friendly. Some are more geared for adults while others are too kid-centric. Below are a few destinations that are great for mom, dad, and the kids. Read up about them and choose a family vacation destination the entire family will enjoy.
Family Vacation to London
Upon arrival in the English region of this massive island, it is important to include travel outside of London for the full British experience. England's most southwestern tip of Cornwall is home to the legendary sea-cliffs below Penzance and the dramatic peninsula of Land's End where a 25 mile trail will take you along some of the most beautiful stretches of ocean. Cornwall is also known for its architectural landmarks, including Cotehele, a most impressive Tudor mansion and museum along the river Tamar. Travel northeast to encounter ancient towns nestled in the picturesque countryside of The Cotswolds. This region is extremely popular for a glimpse into the idyllic English lifestyle with its 14th century stone and thatched roof cottages and cobblestone alleys. Keep in mind that the southern regions are heavily traveled in the months of July and August by locals and foreigners alike due to the warmer weather. Read more about family vacations to London and find discount airfare to London at http://www.cfares.com/london/.
Family Vacation to Canada
The second largest country in the world should by no means stand in the shadow of its more boisterous southern neighbor. Canada's 10 million square kilometers of land, lakes and life brings its own signature flavor to the North American continent. Travel through Canada is a truly mind-opening experience for even the most seasoned vacationer. Read more about family vacations to Canada and find discount airfare to Canada at http://www.cfares.com/canada/.
Family Vacation to Ireland
Most fascinating of Irish travel is the evidence of ancient Celtic civilization and their Viking invaders in the form of stone circles, monoliths and mounds. Burial mounds, known as Court Cairns and Tumuli, can be found all over the countryside. One such ruin in the Silvermines Mountains has lost its covering over time and the many stone chambers inside are now visible. The most impressive stone circle is The Lios in Limerick, which dates back to 2000 BCE and is given a distinctly eerie feel by the area's abundant overgrowth and crooked trees. The giant circle is 150 feet in diameter and attached to a long stone-lined path that leads to two other smaller circles in the area. Read more about family vacations to Ireland and find discount airfare to Ireland at http://www.cfares.com/ireland/.
Both Brian Jenkins & Frank Johnson are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Brian Jenkins has sinced written about articles on various topics from . About Author:Brian Jenkins is a freelance writer who writes about vacation destinations and travel deals, often discussing travel tips one would find through working with a. Brian Jenkins's top article . to your Favourites.
Frank Johnson has sinced written about articles on various topics from Travel and Leisure, Vacation and Destinations. cFares is the first choice thousands of knowledgeable travelers are using right now to save hundreds of dollars on low airfares. For more information on