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Traveling on a Budget

The cost of travel can be intimidating to many vacationers.  To make sure everything is planned and you won’t go over your set budget, you can use canada 411 beforehand to check the services you are planning on. For those who are keeping a close watch on their budgets as they enjoy their time away from home, these options may also be helpful:

1. Book airline tickets in advance.  Finding deals at airline websites can be important because many flights are lower in price if flyers do not wait until the last minute.  On the other hand, flying standby can be fun too, especially for those looking for a spur-of-the-moment adventure.
2. Travel light.  Airlines are always charging for oversized bags and more than two bags per person.  Carry-on bags are the best option because travelers do not have to pay luggage fees and can easily zip in and out of check-in.  Pack very little if clothes are going to be purchased at the vacation site, because then there will be room for everything in one bag on the way home.  Clearly, it may be difficult to travel lightly enough to save money, but it can be worth it in the long run.
3. Use plane changes to an advantage.  Sometimes, when flights are in two airplanes, airlines will allow passengers to stay a couple days in the area where the changeover occurs.  This lets flyers have extra time to rest and enjoy the city as an added bonus.
4. Buy a round trip ticket.  Whether or not travelers are planning to return, sometimes round trip tickets are actually cheaper than their one-way counterparts.  This is worth checking into even though it sounds impossible.  By purchasing these tickets and not using the return option, passengers may be able to save a little extra cash.
5. Eat breakfast and lunch at local cafes.  They prove to be the most inexpensive but still offer delicious food.  Most of the time, they are far more frugal than eating at a hotel or big name restaurant.  Vacationers often find a new favorite that is worth a return visit when they least expected it.

Filed Under: Accommodations, General Tagged With: , ,

How Important Is The Fitness Center?

For many hotels, the fitness center used to be a small room somewhere out of the way with a treadmill, mat, some free weights and a TV—if you’re lucky. It was difficult to get a good workout away from home, and many travelers found this unacceptable.

Health and fitness has become increasingly important; so to those folks who are frequent travelers—whether for work or pleasure, the fitness center has become one of the amenities affecting the choice of hotel.

Now that the hotels have figured this out, many have upgraded this particular perk to attract more guests. There is often a page on the hotel’s website featuring the fitness center complete with photos of the equipment, the pool (if applicable) or even some people working out with big smiles on their faces. These centers are usually open 24-hours; and for some travelers who have families and demanding work schedules—this could be the only time he or she can fit in a good workout.

Some hotels have even gone a bit farther. By combining the fitness center with a spa, even more guests are drawn to the facility by implied promises of massage, facials, manicures and pedicures—this is just the tip of the iceberg. Each spa has unique services and may require appointments, so be sure to research this prior to checking in so you can get into the appointment book.

All you fitness or self-pampering buffs probably know about the upgrades in this hotel amenity; but for those of you who don’t, check it out. Browsing http://www.direct.tv and lounging all day is good, but fitness is way better. Next time you travel, pack some workout clothes and sneakers. Depending on the facility, it may be worth it to start working out. You never know.

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How to Make Money Off Your Vacation Home

Home, home on the beach...

Image by jimflix! via Flickr

Owning a vacation home once considered a luxury, is now becoming a burden in today’s challenging economic times. Instead of having your vacation home just sit there collecting dust, you can make money of your property and offset your expenses. Here are some ways you can make money off your vacation home.

  • Use for Renting

The options available for using your vacation home as a rental include renting it for less than or for more than 14 days a year. You can deduct mortgage interest and property tax when you rent for less than 14 days. Also, rental income is tax-free and doesn’t have to be reported on your tax return. However, when you rent for more than 14 days, all of your rental income is taxed. An advantage to this rental option is being able to write-off rental-related expenses including utility and maintenance.

  • Use as a Family Investment

As noted in an article from the Wall Street Journal, you can distribute the cost of your vacation home by allowing family members to purchase interest. This can be done by forming a limited partnership or limited liability company with your family members. Doing this can allow shareholders to have use of the property and pay their portion of expenses.

  • Auction Use of Your Home for Charity

Charities looking for homes to host events will generally have people bid on the time they will use the home and donate the money to the charity. The benefit is you can deduct the fair market rental value on your income taxes. Organizations such as VacationHomesForCharity.org brings homeowners and charities to together.

 

 

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Walt Disney World Accommodations

Walt Disney world, location in Orlando, Florida, is home to some of the best accommodations in the United States.  For families looking for kid-friendly atmospheres and unique experiences, this vacation spot could be perfect.

Downtown Disney Resort Area Hotel offers seven spacious options for parties of all sizes.  Multiple dining options as well as easy walking distance to many of Disney World’s shopping areas makes these hotels winning experiences.

Names that are familiar in other parts of the United States include Best Western, Doubletree, and Holiday Inn.  In these, families can find affordable rooms, complimentary breakfasts, and outstanding room service.  For those who are mindful of their budgets or need to house multiple family members or friends, these three hotels may be wise choices.

The Hilton Orlando Resort is unique because it offers the Extra Magic Hours option in Disney World.  Each day, one park opens an hour early and stays open three hours late just for Hilton guests.  Room service offers a comforting menu as well as warm, inviting suites that can suit the entire family.  For the adult, each room boasts a mini-bar and inviting interior decorations.

Buena Vista Hotel & Spa, Royal Plaza Resort, and Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Resort have exciting accommodations for adults and children alike.  For the most relaxation, enjoy the spa and pool options in these hotels.  Poolside dining and tennis and basketball courts are just a few reasons to visit these exquisite locations.

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Baggage Loss Insurance

Travel insurance can be very important for those who are destined for overseas locations.  Clearly, the priority of all airlines is to ensure that luggage is received in a safe and timely manner, but every so often, mistakes occur.  Purchasing luggage loss insurance may be the best option for any traveler, and it may be included in the trip insurance anyway.

Some policies cover between $250 and $2500 in baggage or item loss insurance.  This can vary greatly with each policy, so it is best to check with the insurance agent to make sure coverage is appropriate.  Some insurance policies have small deductibles, which typically average $50.

Luggage loss insurance covers personal items, travel documents, and obviously, baggage.  Baggage that travelers ship in advance is usually not covered by insurance, and other items such as electronic devices, pets, and fragile possessions may not be insured either.  Basically, the list is very specific and buyers should be aware of exactly what needs to be insured before they purchase a plan.

Oddly enough, the mysterious disappearance of luggage and other personal property is not covered by insurance either.  This is one of vacationers’ worst fears:  to fly on the airplane and arrive in their warm, beautiful destination sans luggage.  Packing a carry-on bag can help ease the pain of this difficult situation, but in most cases, an insurance plan cannot.

Overall, it appears that luggage insurance covers some important items, but not the ones most travelers want to insure.  Although insurance can be helpful in the case of financial difficulty or cancelled trips, vacationers may want to reconsider purchasing it to cover their actual luggage.

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Choosing a Summer Vacation Destination

If you’re looking forward to taking a trip, the summer is an obvious time for another fun vacation. Many are unsure of where they might like to go — or have too many places they would like to visit — so it can help to review some popular possibilities. Clearly, it would be beneficial to consider the following.

Don’t worry if you’re the type of vacationer who loves the beaches or nice weather, you can look at various brochures to get an idea of where you would like to vacation. Hawaii is a fabulous place if you love the tropical culture and lovely beaches. There is also plenty to do there, from water sports to an interesting set of cultural activities. California, with its many beaches, is also another versatile choice in this category. It also fares well for its cultural range, making it perfect for families and couples alike.

Speaking of versatility, there are plenty of summer destinations if you want to take advantage of thrills. Florida is a great option for its many theme parks, which are sure to satisfy children and adults. The shows, casinos, entertainment, hotel and restaurant options of Las Vegas are also worthy of a summer vacation (or two).

If a location interests you, feel free to do some research. Read brochures on a few top destinations and check out information online. You may be surprised as to how certain destinations can cater to all ages and activity levels. From beautiful weather to top-notch entertainment choices, you can have it all for your upcoming summer vacation.

Consider some of the choices and take advantage of early opportunities to book your vacation. You may find yourself able to locate good deals to save money. There are truly plenty of opportunities to get the vacation you want at the right price. Take advantage of the choices you have for your next summer vacation.

Filed Under: General, Traveling Tagged With: , ,

Why Visit Italy?

Vacations can be exciting experiences, especially when traveling outside the United States.  With its many cultural options, the world has something for everyone.  Italy, with its old world appeal and friendly, outgoing citizens, may be one destination to consider.  Here are a few positive qualities of the country itself:

Many cities in Italy are closely linked to a passion for cuisine.  Their dishes are delicious, varied for many tastes, and usually very affordable.  In the wide array of restaurants, chefs and cooks will be excited to describe their menu and the options they make available.  In general, the food in Italy is divine.

The culture in Italy is unlike any other.  Citizens are hospitable and accommodating to guests. Vacationers find themselves accepted into a culture that appreciates family and the everyday activities that are worth living for.  In most cities, people feel safe and content to sightsee and enjoy the history behind this country.  Overall, natives to Italy feel a strong sense of belonging in their country, and many times this rubs off on travelers who stay beyond their intended vacation.

Rich in architecture that reflects over 2000 years of history, Italy is picturesque to say the least.  Dome-shaped roofs and quaint towns are everywhere.  For the most part, Italy relishes in holding on to tradition while adopting modern ways of life.  Although the appearance of Italy is older, travelers will enjoy up-to-date amenities as well as the laid-back way of living.

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Airport Security Doesn’t Need To Stall Your Vacation

Many of us want to start our vacations as soon as we leave the house and head for the airport. Unfortunately, it doesn’t usually start until after we get through security and onto the airplane – at least if you are knowledgeable about TSA’s rules and regulations.

TSA has something known as the 3-1-1 rule for liquids and gels that are carried onto the plane—there is no limit or issues with liquid or gel containers that are packed in your suitcase and checked.  It’s time to discuss the liquid portion of the carry-on equation.  The rule states that you cannot carry any liquid in a container bigger than 3 ounces; you can utilize a 1-quart plastic bag; and you can only carry 1 bag per traveler.

Smart travelers (who have achieved the legal drinking age) know that most of the mini liquor bottles are less than 3 ounces; and you can literally fill a 1-quart bag and as long as you place it in the bin when you go through security—you are free from worries.

You are now also free from having to pay for drinks on the plane (unless you are in first class, then you don’t need to pay attention to this). Just order your orange juice and make your own screwdriver. Order a coke and enjoy a rum and coke (diet coke if you are watching your calories).

With a little bit of premeditation, you can definitely start your vacation before most have even had a chance to de-stress. Add the liquor store to your list of errands and enjoy the flight.

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Use House Swapping to Make Your Vacation Affordable

Flipping through a magazine, you find the perfect vacation destination. You’ve never been there before, but your friends have raved about the area. Clicking through travel sites, you check out the hotels in the area. Big drag. Accommodations are way out of your league, especially in today’s economy. Don’t give up, though. There’s a chance someone in that area is browsing through magazines and dreaming about visiting your neck of the woods. The situation is the perfect setup for house swapping.

House swapping history can be traced back to the 1950s when people realized that mutual parties could benefit from exchanging homes on a temporary basis. By the 1970s, the idea was really catching on. People discovered that there were many benefits to home swapping. Of course, you save a lot of money on your accommodations, but you also get more than that. You get to relax in a home-away-from-home, enjoying space and privacy you won’t find in a hotel. You can shop locally and cook meals in your own kitchen, saving costs on the food budget, and you can also get a real taste of a neighborhood. If you stay a while, you can get to know the neighbors and other locals. Who knows? You might discover that you want to move to the area you are visiting.

The Internet has helped the house swapping business boom because it matches people’s traveling desires so easily. It doesn’t matter if you live in Raleigh apartments or a house in the western New York countryside. The computers will match you up so the city people get a country experience, and the country folk get a taste of the city. Some travelers are concerned about the safety of their homes. Most house swapping websites promote trust among members via regular communications and images.

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