As budgets around the globe tighten, low-cost options are in high demand. ATN looks at the latest budget travel offerings, from the practical to the quirky
12 MONTHS OF SAVINGS
According to CheapTickets.com’s 2009 Value Travel Forecast, travel is number two among leisure activities consumers are still striving to afford in the economic downturn.
“For many in the coming year, choosing a destination that fits a tighter budget will be a key factor in deciding where and when to vacation,” says CheapTickets.com’s Marita Hudson Thomas.
Exotic destinations such as Hong Kong, Brazil and Greece topped the list of best budget travel destinations for 2009. Where possible, advising clients to book outside of peak season is recommended, as savings of between 35% and 58% can be made in travelling to destinations such as France, Greece, Mexico and Hawaii.
The Vale Travel Forecast includes the following month-by-month favourites for agents to recommend:
January: New York in January offers 37% savings compared to peak hotel rates and post-holiday sales are plentiful.
February: Italy hosts the famous Carnevale festival and savings of up to 42% can be made on hotels.
March: Portland hotels are up to 53% cheaper in March, compared to peak rates.
April: Brazil is quieter in April after the summer crowds depart, but the tropical spring weather remains.
May: Lake Tahoe is popular for water sports and beach activities and offers 38% savings on guided cruises and dining compared to peak winter rates.
June: Egypt in June offers 38% savings compared to peak rates.
July: Florida offers summer fun to travellers, with dance clubs and concert halls.
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August: Tuscon temperatures rise in August, fueling savings of 52%.
September: Orlando’s theme parks record their lowest figures in September, hotels offer 32% savings.
October: Mexico is 25% cheaper in October than in winter months.
November: Ireland is typically a more expensive European destination, but savings of 43% can be made on hotel rates in November.
December: Napa Valley is home to famous vineyards and travellers visiting in December will not only miss the crowds, but can also save 56% on hotel rates.
BUSINESS BARGAINS
Arabian Park Hotel, a three-star Dubai property, has introduced a new value-added offer aimed at executives travelling on a budget.
For AED 95 (US $26) on top of the regular room rate, guests booking an executive king or executive balcony room will receive complimentary breakfast, wireless internet access, dry cleaning, early check-in and late check-out.
General manager Mark Lee says the offer is designed for business travellers who are looking to cut costs in the current economic climate.
“People still need to travel for business but increasingly they’re being asked to save money while doing so,” says Lee.
“Our executive package offers everything a businessperson needs to make their trip as comfortable and as successful as possible, while still providing the great value for money that people have come to expect of Dubai’s premier three-star hotel.
“At the moment people want genuine value for money coupled with high standards and that’s exactly what we’re offering.”
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