How to Find Affordable Resorts
The economy is making people scale back their vacation plans, but you can still find affordable resorts. Resorts and hotels that want to keep their rooms full are making great rates available. You just need to be flexible with travel dates. You may need to book a last minute deal or plan a trip several months in advance.
- Search travel websites such as Kayak and Travelocity that regularly list resort deals. The Bing Travel search portal indicates whether a resort's current rate is a deal or not by comparing it with the resort's previously listed rates.
- Check various MerchantCircle communities for resort listings. Find reviews, contact information and links to resort websites. Some MerchantCircle listings include promotions and discounts.
- Use a travel agency to get resort deals. Travel agents are familiar with peak, margin and off-season travel. If you want to stay in a specific area, they can recommend the best time of year to get a good rate. Sometimes travel agents score better deals because they have access to resort promotions that are not advertised to the public.
- Read the travel section of newspapers for affordable resort packages. You may find local tour operators offering tour packages with resort stays.
- Call resorts directly to get the best price. Most resorts match rates to stay competitive. If you quote them a price you found at an online website, they may provide a better rate.
- Look at the fine print prior to making reservations. Some all-inclusive resorts may charge additional fees for extra activities, such as scuba diving or golf. Other resorts may require a membership for access to all their facilities. Find out if food and drinks are available on-site 24 hours a day.