With vacation season on the horizon, travelers hunting for a bargain will find wallet-friendly options in Belize as hotels are slashing prices and boosting inclusive packages for the summer months.
Home to the second largest barrier reef in the world, ancient Maya temples, exotic wildlife and more, Belize provides an unforgettable vacation. And with a fixed exchange rate of BZ$2 to US$1, travelers will naturally save even more on their summer trips.
Below is a list of specific offers that begin in the summer and run through Belize’s low season (October 31) and are tailored to fit a range of travelers - from couples seeking romantic escapes to families in search of safe summer destinations. Travelers can also find a full roster of hot summer deals on Belize’s official travel website, TravelBelize.org.
SUMMER ROMANCE FOR A BARGAIN
Featuring remote islands, mesmerizing waterfalls and affordable luxuries, Belize is the ideal getaway for couples in search of rousing romantic destinations. From seaside star-gazing on the white beaches of Placencia to breathtaking sunsets on the Maya temples of Caracol in the Cayo District, Belize’s awe-inspiring attractions are sure to sizzle any couple’s summer. While the country’s romance website, Belize In Love, features romantic packages offered year-round, below are two summer deals perfect for stirring up a little romance.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Travelers exploring America this spring will be able to stretch their travel dollar even farther thanks to Choice Hotels and a new Choice Privileges promotion where members can earn a $50 gas card after just two separate stays. Book a reservation at ChoiceHotels.com or 800-4CHOICE and stay two separate times at any Choice Hotels property between March 3 and May 4, 2011, and receive enough Choice Privileges points to redeem for a $50 gas card to use anytime.*
What’s more, guests who register at ChoiceHotels.com are eligible to earn more than one $50 gas card during the promotion. Also, Choice Privileges Elite Platinum and Elite Diamond members can book their qualifying stays through any channel. Qualifying stays at Choice Hotels economy and extended stay brand properties, including MainStay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay Hotel, Econo Lodge and Rodeway Inn hotels, must be a minimum of two consecutive nights.
For more information about the ChoicePrivileges rewards program, as well as other promotional offers by Choice Hotels, visit choicehotels.com.
About Choice Hotels
Choice Hotels International, Inc. franchises more than 6,000 hotels, representing more than 495,000 rooms, in the United States and more than 30 other countries and territories. As of December 31, 2010, more than 500 hotels were under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development in the United States, representing more than 40,000 rooms, and more than 100 hotels, representing approximately 9,000 rooms, are under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development in 18 other countries and territories.The company’s Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality, Sleep Inn, Clarion, Cambria Suites, MainStay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay Hotel, Econo Lodge and Rodeway Inn brands serve guests worldwide.In addition, via its Ascend Collection membership program, travelers in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean have upscale lodging options at historic, boutique and unique hotels.
Source: Choice Hotels International
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
This year for Spring Break let YMCA of the Rockies help customize an affordable Colorado getaway for your family. Their two properties Estes Park Center and Snow Mountain Ranch offer a range of accommodations, dining options, and activities to keep the whole family entertained, while staying on budget.
Here are just a couple of ideas of how to spend Spring Break with YMCA of the Rockies:
- Family Fun Weekends- These themed weekends are available at both properties and include two nights’ accommodation, buffet-style meals, and a huge range of activities. March 4-6th Estes Park Center will be hosting a Family Magic weekend which in addition to showcasing magic demonstrations will prepare families to stage their own magic shows. March 25th-27th Snow Mountain Ranch will have Family Crafts Weekend and also offer free Nordic ski lesson and trail pass with equipment rentals.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
American Airlines Brings Kids to Telluride for Free
Telluride Ski Resort and American Airlines are back with the ever popular Kids Fly Free Program this winter. American, Continental, Delta and United Airlines are also offering some of the most aggressive First Class fares in recent history, with rates as low as $632 to get to the slopes of Telluride.
Telluride boasts some of the best non-stop access of any destination ski resort, with daily direct flights from Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Phoenix, Denver, and now Atlanta, as well as direct flights from Newark and Los Angeles on the weekends.
From January 5 - February 16 and February 27 - March 10, 2011, kids ages 2-12 will fly free with an accompanying adult ticket on American Airlines flights into Telluride’s Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ).
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Located on the western slopes of the Tetons, Grand Targhee Ski Resort is regionally known as the Rocky Mountain’s best kept secret. Their abundance of champagne powder snow, coupled with Teton Springs luxury accommodations, makes this affordable lodging, lift and breakfast package a perfect romantic getaway or family winter vacation.
- Luxury Accommodations in a Deluxe Lodge Room
- Daily Deluxe Continental Breakfast
- 1 Day Lift Ticket at Grand Targhee Resort
No Minimum Stay Required. Upgrades Available. Price based on double occupancy and does not include resort fee, taxes, or gratuities. Based on availability and not valid with any other promotion. 11/25/2010 - 4/17/2011. From $135 per person per night.
All packages can be modified to better suit your needs. Options include additional days of heli-skiing, snow cat skiing, or lift tickets at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
A winter vacation to the Grand Canyon is pure magic. Think mist and snow, sky and rock, silence and solitude, and the warmth of a crackling fire. Check out these reduced rates from Xanterra South Rim L.L.C.*, operator of lodges, restaurants and activities in Grand Canyon National Park, and leave the crowds and costs to the Canyon’s summertime masses.
The Winter Value Rate is $85 per night plus tax at Maswik South and Yavapai West, and $110 per night plus tax at Maswik North and Yavapai East. The Winter Value Rate is available from Nov. 10, 2010 through March 10, 2011, excluding Nov. 24-27, 2010, Dec. 24, 2010 through Jan. 1, 2011 and Feb. 19-Feb. 21, 2011. The rates are valid for single or double occupancy. The cost for each additional person in the room is $9. Children 16 and under stay at no extra charge. Lodge and room type are subject to availability and seasonal closures. Summer rates at these hotels range from $90 to $170 per night.
The El Tovar Romance Package at the elegant and historic El Tovar includes one night in a standard queen room, a bottle of California sparkling wine and fruit basket in the room and dinner for two with a bottle of Grand Canyon label wine in the El Tovar Dining Room. The base package cost is $375 plus tax subject to availability. Guests may upgrade to a deluxe room or suite, based upon availability, for an additional charge. The Romance Package is available Nov. 28, 2010 through Feb. 14, 2011, excluding Dec. 11, 2010, Dec. 24, 2010 through Jan. 1, 2011 and Jan. 12, 2011. When booking the Romance Package online, guests must enter the promo code “ROMANCE.”
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Don’t let summer pass you by. There’s still time for a family adventure …
image courtesy of Maine Huts & Trails
Kids Stay Free this summer at Maine Huts & Trails. Your kids will thank you and so will your wallet.
Valid Sun – Fri. Limit one child per paying adult. Book by Aug 6 for stays by Nov 7, 2010.
ABOUT MAINE HUTS & TRAILS
Maine Huts & Trails is Maine’s newest, year-round outdoor adventure destination. Located in the beautiful and wild, western mountains region of Maine, their system of backcountry eco-lodges connected by people-powered trails consists of two huts and more than 25 miles of trails for hiking, cross-country skiing and much more.
Source: Maine Huts & Trails
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Families looking for a late summer or fall getaway can indulge in Breezes Curaçao’s wallet-friendly “Curaçao WOW” promotion. Guests visiting the Super-Inclusive resort August 15 through December 15 will enjoy five nights in the Dutch Caribbean and pay for only four, starting at just $580 per person per stay. Trading appointments and carpools for swimming and snorkeling, is even more appealing since children 12 and under stay free with paying adults.
For fun in the sun, Breezes offers a private white-sand beach and three swimming pools including a misting pool, children’s pool and adult pool with swim up bar. While mom and dad enjoy some peace and quiet, little ones are kept very happy playing with their peers at the resort’s 12,000 sq. ft. “Kids Club,” where hotel staff supervise and lend a helping hand during arts & crafts, sand castle competitions, and rock climbing – for those a bit older and more adventurous. A daily nanny-supervised nursery for infants and toddlers up to 2 years old is also available on a complimentary basis, allowing parents a true mini-vacation of their own. The resort also boasts an arcade and professional Circus Workshop for teenage guests and those young at heart, with flying trapeze and juggling lessons
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
This just in… 7 to 14 Day Caribbean Cruises Starting at $399
Princess Cruises has launched a new “Caribbean Super Sale” offering significant savings on select 2010 and 2011 voyages through the sparkling waters of the Caribbean. Travelers can choose to sail among the sun-swept islands for seven to 14 days, with fares starting at just $399.
Tropical itinerary options and pricing (per person, based on double occupancy) available in the Caribbean Super Sale include:
- Seven-day Classic Southern Caribbean on Caribbean Princess – starting at $399
- Seven-day Western Caribbean on Crown Princess – starting at $449
- Seven-day Eastern Caribbean on Ruby Princess – starting at $449
- Seven-day Southern Caribbean Explorer on Caribbean Princess – starting at $449
- Eight-day Bermuda & Eastern Caribbean on Caribbean Princess – starting at $549
- 10-day Eastern Caribbean Voyager or Southern Caribbean Medley on Emerald Princess or Star Princess – starting at $749
- 14-day Caribbean Collection on Grand Princess – starting at $999
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
All too often, we don’t seem to get what we pay for. Wouldn’t it be nice to take back control of the summer vacation? Here are 3 budget-friendly websites that can help you do just that.
At Shell Vacations Hospitality, choose from resorts situated on lush golf courses, the breathtaking coasts of Hawaii’s Big Island and just steps away from some of America’s most famous family theme parks, all offered at low prices for the summer.
Want to name your price too? Check out the newest family-friendly website FamilyGetaway.com that makes planning your summer family vacation a breeze with auction-style sales on luxury accommodations and kid-approved activities.
Luxury Link, the leader in online luxury hotel deals, recently partnered with Travel + Leisure to launch Vacationist.com, an invitation-only, private-sale travel website for luxury travelers that offers significant savings.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Visit Mile High City This Summer Without Breaking the Bank
Downtown Denver Arts Festival
First Friday Art Walks
Denver Chalk Art Festival
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Families on the lookout for an affordable retreat with exceptional skiing, snowboarding and sledding are able to quickly and easily book the perfect “Winter Wonderland” getaway with deals currently on offer at PerfectFamilyVacation.com.
“Winter Wonderland” specials featured on PerfectFamilyVacation.com this season include:
- Studio suites in Park City, UT starting as low as $69 per night. Guests looking for even more space will find two-bedroom deluxe condos which sleep up to eight people for only $116 per night. As an added benefit, participating resorts are also offering a complimentary ski pass with a three night stay.
- Amazing one-bedroom condos in Big Bear, CA which comfortably sleep families of four for only $97 a night.
- Resort-style accommodations with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms in Mammoth Lakes, CA starting from $124 per night.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Book a last minute winter getaway and enjoy 20% savings* on a Moorings Bareboat charter in the Caribbean, Bahamas and Mexico! To take advantage of this exceptional offer, depart between Nov. 1 - Dec. 18, 2009 from the British Virgin Islands, St. Martin, St. Lucia, Canouan, Belize, Mexico or the Bahamas and book by Nov. 30, 2009. Captain’s Rewards cardholders receive an additional 5% off. Learn more
Source: The Moorings
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Save up to $698 with the Family Value Package at Park City Mountain Resort, consistently named a top ten family resort. The Family Value Package includes four night’s slopeside lodging for two adults and two kids plus two adult three-day lift tickets. See deal details below…
Park City Family Fun Package
Park City Mountain ResortOnly $159.00 per adult per night.
Package includes: Four nights of lodging in a one-bedroom, fully equipped condominium located 1 mile from Park City Mountain Resort, round-trip ground transportation from the Salt Lake City International Airport, and three days of lift tickets to Park City Mountain Resort for two adults and two children (12 and under). Condominium property features indoor pool and hot tub, exercise room, laundry room, free in-town shuttle, ski storage and gift shop. Package is flexible – extra nights or additional lift tickets are available for additional cost.
For more information, call 800-331-3178 or visit www.parkcitymountain.com
Expires Tuesday, November 10 2009
Source: Ski Utah
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
“Stimulus Package” value-packed offers attract families and single parents
Pueblo Bonito Oceanfront Resorts and Spas properties are known to be ideal for couples, weddings, and girlfriend getaways. But they are also the perfect destination for family travel. Now through October 31, 2009, parents can take advantage of the KIDS STAY AND EAT FREE program at select Pueblo Bonito Resorts. This offer is eligible for kids sharing a room with their parents, dining with their parents and ordering from the kid’s menu. Participating properties include Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach Resort & Spa, Pueblo Bonito Rosé Resort & Spa and Pueblo Bonito Los Cabos in Cabo San Lucas as well as Pueblo Bonito Mazatlán and Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay Resort & Spa in Mazatlan.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
No one can resist a free meal, especially families on a budget. In today’s economy, traveling families are trying to save every dollar they can. Many restaurants recognize this, and are offering deals to attract parents and their children. The editors of Mr. Free Stuff have compiled a list of “101 Restaurants Where Kids Eat Free” to help you know where you can dine out on the cheap.
From well-known chains like Golden Corral, TGI Friday’s, Bennigan’s, Chik-Fil-A, Buffalo Wild Wings, Fazoli’s and Denny’s to regional favorites, the feature on Mr. Free Stuff informs readers about eat-for-free specials that are available on any given day of the week. Sunday (33), Monday (36) and Tuesday (56) are the best days to get freebies from restaurants. On Friday, only 14 eateries on the list give free offers.
Click here to learn more.
Source: Mr. Free Stuff
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
With summer fast approaching, many travelers are itching to find the ultimate in entertainment with a theme park vacation. Don’t let a hurting economy and expensive entrance fees stand in the way. Discover 10 of the country’s top theme parks that offer summer fun on a reasonable budget.
Source: SmarterTravel.com
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
The Blue Crab Beach, a family-friendly adventure hotel located in Placencia, Belize, is launching several different specials, designed to fit a wide range of budgets. Guests booking six nights at the hotel will receive a seventh night free and children under the age of 16 stay for free. A 10 percent discount is also available for returning visitors, on top of the current 20 percent taken off the hotel’s summer rates. And, groups booking three rooms or more will receive an additional 10 percent off their accommodations.
For more information on travel specials offered by Blue Crab Beach, visit www.BlueCrabBeach.com.
Source: Belize Tourism Board
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
For the family that is looking for an affordable Oregon Coast vacation on a budget, the beauty and water sport activities of Loon Lake can be enjoyed with an inexpensive stay at Loon Lake Lodge and RV Resort. The resort is offering Oregon Coast area lodging for an Oregon yurt that can accommodate up to four people, or Oregon Coast cabins that can accommodate up to five people.
Budget stays can also be arranged in one of the lakeview cottages with full kitchens or motel rooms nestled in the Douglas Fir tree forest at one of the finest Oregon Coast campgrounds with spaces for RVs - or tent camping, too, with a 2-for-1 special. These special rates are only available at
http://www.loonlakerv.com/current-specials.html now through May 21st.
For more information, call 541-599-2244 or visit www.loonlakerv.com to take advantage of ongoing lodging specials.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Some of the best things in life truly are free, particularly in our national parks. And even those things that aren’t free are still an incredible value, in part because every item with a price tag in every U.S. national park has the approval of the National Park Service.
Here’s a few budget-friendly ideas from National Park concessioner Xanterra Parks & Resorts:
Free experiences:
Spot an owl. Or a bear, elk, wolf, otter, bighorn sheep, pronghorn, coyote, bison or trumpeter swan. The Lamar Valley in the northern part of Yellowstone National Park is often called the “American Serengeti” because of its abundant wildlife. Some good binoculars and a little patience are all you need to observe the wonders of the park’s wildlife. Xanterra also offers a variety of guided wildlife-watching experiences.
Go low. At 282 feet below sea level, Badwater Basin in California’s Death Valley National Park is one of the lowest places in the world. The vast salt flats are typically bone-dry but can turn into a ready-made lake after a big rainstorm. Look up at mountainside sign marking sea level posted well above the Badwater Basin viewpoint. No, up a little higher. Feeling small yet?
Walk in the footsteps of presidents. Six presidents – and Three Stooges – have stayed at Yellowstone’s Old Faithful Inn. It was built for $140,000 in 1904 and is one of the most famous buildings in any national park. A Xanterra historian tells travelers about the inn’s colorful history during free walking tours offered several times a day throughout the summer.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".