A week on an island paradise sounds great right about now, doesn't it? But the economic crisis has forced a lot of people to rearrange their priorities and that winter get-away has dropped way down the list.
If you can't shake the travel bug, there are a few affordable destinations. They may not be that island paradise, but they'll take you away from it all without breaking the bank.
"We're looking for places that offer unique events, such as cultural festivals," explained SmarterTravel editor Anne Banas.
No. 5: Vilnius, Lithuania
Some travel buffs are now calling this the capital of European culture and many of the events there are free. Banas says there's also an added incentive for bargain hunters. "They are not using the Euro as their currency, which tends to make the city and other destinations in the country more affordable."
No. 4: Lima, Peru
According to Banas, you can find hotel rooms as low as $5 per night. Seasoned travelers Silvana and Alan Clark know first hand that it's a great city for families to explore.
"You've got the nice central core with restaurants and the museums and the shops," Silvana explained.
No. 3: Kansas City
If you don't want to deal with the hassle of international travel Kansas City is a great choice. The SmarterTravel website says the city has invested billions to put itself on the map as a tourist destination. "Some of the things they have… is the power and light district which is 9 blocks of entertainment and food venues," Banas explained.
No. 2: Vancouver, Canada
It's not exactly that island paradise but it is the site of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games. "It's getting ready in the year 2009 with a lot of different events and they're even building a train that connects the airport right to downtown Vancouver," said Banas. Visit in February and March and you can take advantage of a variety of free dance, art and music events.
No. 1: Riviera Nayarit in Mexico
According to Banas, it's an affordable hot spot on the Pacific coast. Visitors can go golfing, visit colonial villages and enjoy all kinds of water sports. It's about as close as you are going to get to that island paradise without the big price tag. Some of the hotels in this resort community are as low as $60 a night.
Whichever destination you choose, Banas says start researching your flights now, and book early for the best rates.
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