If your family has chosen to forgo the traditional Christmas and turkey dinner this year and is looking to get away to someplace exotic instead, perhaps a nice vacation is in order? This list of holiday hot-spots that won't break the bank will help you to narrow down the possible destinations.
Key Takeaways
- Visiting slightly out of the way places over the Christmas holiday can, with a little planning, save you a lot of money.
- Interesting destinations can include warm, beach-focused locations, as well as snowy winter wonderlands.
- The key is flexibility, being willing to fly on Christmas and even New Year's Day, and booking in November or earlier.
Las Vegas
Though this holiday hot spot was once thought of as an expensive destination, that may no longer be the case for US-based or international travelers. Though the Las Vegas Convention and Visitor's Authority notes the average daily room rate at $170.98, there are a few things to consider. First, you can generally get a package deal that includes flights and a hotel. Second, fewer people travel to Vegas in December. In December 2022, Vegas had 3.3 million visitors, lower than the fall (October 2022, 3.6 million) or spring (March 2023, 3.7 million visitors). Also, if you have flexibility, weekend stays in 澳洲幸运5官方开奖结果体彩网:Vegas hotels are usually a bit more expensive.
Keep in mind, though, that the cost also depends on when you book your package and with whom. There are a variety of discount travel options, so it's a good idea to shop around. Once you're in Vegas, there are plenty of inexpensive activities to take part in, though you should be aware that some activities, such as the big shows and tourist attractions, can really add up.
If you're really looking to keep costs to a minimum, do some research on inexpensive or free activities that you can take part in, such as the Bellagio's fountains, Santa under the big top at Circus Circus, or spectating the people along the strip.
Mexico
If you're looking to get away from the snow and cold, the all-inclusive resorts and close proximity of Mexico make this a highly popular holiday destination for sunshine-filled Christmas getaways. Mexico offers great weather during the winter months, along with great beaches and inexpensive food options. Cheap flights are often available during the winter months. Just shop around, and you should be able to put together a fairly inexpensive holiday.
Slightly more expensive, travels also have plenty of options to consider regarding all-inclusive resorts. Again, though many of those resorts wouldn't cut it on an "inexpensive" ranking list, there is something to be said where all costs are included, there are no hidden fees, and a variety of included amentities. Consider checking out locations such as Palmaia.
Fast Fact
Consider ᩚᩚᩚᩚᩚᩚᩚᩚᩚ𒀱ᩚᩚᩚhow Christianity and Christmas may notꦓ be as prevalent in certain countries; this may make travel less expense to those areas since the holidays may not be as large of a draw for tourists.
Caribbean
Similar to Mexico, the Caribbean islands offer a sunshine-filled holiday without having to travel too far. The beach town of Negril in Jamaica is often a holiday hot-spot for budget travelers. You can find cheap accommodations, food, and activities, including holiday rental homes that 🐟are generally a cheaper option than staying in hotels or resorts.
Also, consider that some locations may offer special pricing. For example, Princess Hotel & Resorts offered a discount up to 50% for travel booked to the Caribbean. To quality for the promotion, travel must have been booked during a specific window, the stay must have been a minimum of four nights, and a holiday dinner must have been included. Note that as of October 2023, that promotion is no longer offered for 2023 but may be available in the future.
Eastern Europe
If your heart is set on Europe for this year's holiday getaway, Romania, Bulgaria, and Hungary are still relatively inexpensive European holiday destinations. Though much of Europe is far from cheap, these countries tend to be much less expensive. This is largely due to cheaper travel costs once you're in the country on the rail system, as well as typically cheaper food and drink costs. You'll also find no shortage of history an💛d tourist sites in these three countries.
In addition, consider the benefit of guided tours that include room, board, and travel. For example, ExpatExplore offered an 11-day, Eastern highlights Christmas and New Year tour of seven countries for $158/day. Note that the promotional price was for 2023, and this trip may no long💃er be offered.
Fast Fact
Though not necessarily less expensive, consider travel options that allow you to book now but pay later. It may not amount to much, but keeping funds in your savings account for longer gene𓂃rates you more interest income you can use towards your payment.
Quebec City, Canada
If you want to experience an exotic European getaway but don't want to pay European prices, Quebec City is a great destination. This French-speaking city in the northern region of Quebec, Canada, guarantees a snowy winter experience in a city that has a certain old-world charm. One of the great benefits is that you'll be able to get away somewhere that feels foreign, but the flights are much shorter than ones to Europe, and the currency exchange is generally quite close to the American dollar.
If you're close enough to the border, you may be able to save some money (and enjoy the scenery) by driving across. There's plenty to do in this historic city, and there are many Christmas events that the whole family is sure to enjoy.
What Are the Best Strategies for Finding Cheap Flights?
For starters, everyone's results will vary. However, to find cheap flights, use fare comparison websites like Kayak or Skyscanner. Booking on Tuesdays 🧜or Wednesdays, when airlines often release deals, can save you money. Clearing your browser cookies before searching can help you avoid price increases due to tracking. Being flexible with your travel dates, flying🀅 mid-week, and considering early morning or red-eye flights can also lead to more affordable options.
How Can I Cut Food and Dining Expenses While Traveling?
To save on food, seek out local, non-touristy restaurants, as they typically offer lower prices than those in touristy areas. Enjoy street food and local specialties, which are often affordable and delic♏ious. Additionally, if your accommodation allows it, consider self-catering and preparing some of your meals, especially if your room and board has a refrigerator.
What Are Tips for Budget-Friendly Transportation at My Destination?
Utilize public transportation, walk, or bike when exploring your destination. Consider purchasing multi-day passes or transportation cards that offer discounts for multiple rides. If traveling with others, ride-sharing or carpooling can be cost-effective and convenie▨nt options as well.
How Can I Save on Sightseeing and Attractions?
Look for city passes or attraction bundles that offer discounts on popular sites and activities. Additionally, check for free or discounted admission days at museum🐼s and landmarks. Explore free attractions, parks, and scenic spots, which can be enjoyable without added costs but still create tremendous memories.
The Bottom Line
Getting a great deal on a vacation at any time of year really depends on doing your research. There are many holiday destinations that can provide great value at any time of the year, and some of the more expensive destinations can be done relatively on the cheap if you find good deals on flights and accommodations or 澳洲幸运5官方开奖结果体彩网:travel during non-peak times.
Flying on the holiday itself is often cheaper than many other days during the holiday season. So if you're not opposed to traveling on Christmas or New Year's Day, you should definitely be able to save yourself some money. Be willing to compromise a bit on where and when you go, and you should be able to find yourself a good deal. Alternatively, you can book far in advance of the holiday rush on travel bookings, which usually occurs in November. It all comes down to doing your homework and weighing your options. In the end, your wallet will thank you.