Last-Minute Fourth of July Travel Bargains

Don’t feel like celebrating America’s birthday in your backyard this year? Changing party venues doesn’t have to cost you a pretty penny if you take advantage of last-minute deals.  By waiting this late in the game to book a hotel stay for the upcoming Fourth of July holiday, you stand to save a bundle. For example, New York City is showing a slew of savings for Independence Day visitors.  According to travel app HotelTonight, which specializes in finding deeply discounted rates for same-day hotel stays, many rooms in the heart of NYC are going for a mere $100.  That’s a … Continue reading

Free Breakfast on the Road

Free? Is there such a thing these days? If you are a Marriott Rewards Gold or Platinum Elite member, the answer is a hearty “yes.” Hearty as in the breakfast you will get for F-R-E-E beginning June 22nd. Marriott International is treating its loyal customers to a free continental breakfast seven days a week at participating hotels in the U.S. and Canada.  To sweeten the deal even more, Gold and Platinum Elite members will also be able to share the free meal pass with a guest of their choice.  For elite guests who prefer not to claim a muffin, bagel … Continue reading

Hotels Stealing a Priceless Commodity

Not your Louis Vuitton luggage, your precious tech toys or the treasured stuffed souvenirs you spent three hours trying to win during your trip to the amusement park.  Some hotels are taking something far more valuable from unsuspecting guests–their health. According to a new study, if you are spending the night in a nonsmoking room at a hotel with a partial smoking ban, you are not fully protected from harmful exposure to so-called “third-hand” smoke.  Researchers at San Diego State University discovered that tobacco pollution can easily congregate on surfaces in both smoking and nonsmoking hotel rooms. “Our findings demonstrate … Continue reading

Save on the Souvenir Experience

When budgeting for a dream vacation, don’t forget to include the cost of souvenirs.  After all, you want to take home at least one tangible memory of your ultimate getaway… and hopefully, it’s not just the toiletries from your hotel. These days several properties are making it easier and more affordable for guests to leave their favorite vacation destinations with souvenirs that will last longer than a plastic dashboard hula dancer.  The select hotels are offering guests a chance to make their own souvenirs via classes, workshops, and other creative hands-on programs. Some of the most popular include: The Viceroy … Continue reading

Extended Love Day Travel Deals

February is a notoriously slow period for the hotel industry.  This translates into a golden opportunity for frugal travelers looking to save a bundle on a much-needed romantic escape.  Just because Valentine’s Day is over, doesn’t mean you can’t sneak away with your sweetie on a luxurious weekend trip without breaking the bank. Many hotels around the country are extending their Love Day-themed deals through the end of the month, including: Coronado Island Marriott Resort and Spa:  The upscale property is offering a money-saving deal dubbed the “Coronado Island Romance” package.  It features deluxe accommodations in a bay view room, … Continue reading

The Newest Hotel Trend

Who doesn’t enjoy a two-for-one special? The newest trend in the hotel industry is all about twofers, only most of the money saving is taking place on the property’s end, while travelers look to save more time than dough. Several major hotel chains have decided to save money by building two hotels on one property.  Dual-branded hotels are the latest way developers are padding their wallets during these unpredictable financial times. According to hotel industry insiders, by having two hotels on the same lot chains not only save on construction and operational costs by combining amenities such as the pool … Continue reading

Travel to a Hands-On History Lesson

Looking to take a trip of a lifetime? Then, consider jetting off to see history in the making at the 57th Presidential inauguration. Washington, D.C. is buzzing with excitement as it gets set to host Inauguration 2013.  On Monday, January 21st, President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden will be sworn in and officially begin their second term in office Surprisingly, there are still some hotel rooms available for visitors traveling to D.C. for the big event.  Of course, not all of them come with price tags fit for frugal travelers.  In fact, some Presidential inauguration travel packages are … Continue reading