Learning how to stretch your dollar is especially beneficial as the busy summer travel season kicks off. Fortunately, there are a number of airlines and hotels looking to help you get the most bang for your buck this season, including:
United Airlines: The popular commercial carrier is catering to pet lovers. United recently opened a new kennel at Chicago O’Hare International Airport. Now when you opt for the airline’s PetSafe service your fur baby will enjoy modern, ventilated and temperature-controlled units. The new kennel is located inside United’s cargo facility and can accommodate 28 pets. The facility also has temperature-controlled vans that the airline uses to transport pets to and from flights. In addition to getting a clean and sanitized kennel to relax in, pets flying on United will also be treated to walks as well as professional grooming and bathing upon request.
Burj Al Arab: Budget-conscious travelers are not the only ones looking to score a few luxurious amenities. One of the most upscale hotels in the world is offering a very special service to its guests: a 24-karat gold iPad at check-in. Dubai’s Burj Al Arab hotel is letting guests borrow the pimped out iPad as a “virtual concierge” to access information about the hotel such as restaurant descriptions, spa services and butler and housekeeping services. Other high-end amenities offered by the ultra-luxe property include four pools; a private beach; Rolls Royce, BMW and helicopter airport transfer service; and free access to a water park.
Other Hotels: Staying in Washington, D.C., is a real bargain this summer thanks in large part to the sequester. The budget cutbacks have reduced government travel to the region forcing local hotels to slash prices on rooms. According to travel experts, hotel rates are down nearly 10 percent from last summer. Properties in Vancouver, British Columbia are also offering huge savings to summer travelers. An overabundance of hotel rooms from the 2010 Winter Olympics has prompted the summer sale.