Hawaiian beaches are among the best in the world. Discover some new favorites for a relaxing day
Vacation ideas
Looking for the perfect family reunion resort? Here are 10 picks for a family-friendly vacation.
Expedia Cruises hosted the Ridge Meadows Travel Expo on Feb. 3
Kenya, Kyoto, and Paris, West Virginia, Alaska, and Niagara Falls all landed on National Geographic’s list of best places to travel to in 2024. But this year there’s a fun new twist.
Kenya, Kyoto, and Paris, West Virginia, Alaska, and Niagara Falls all landed on National Geographic’s list of best places to travel to in 2024. But this year there’s a fun new twist.
Sprawling coastlines, charming beach towns. These Florida islands make for a weekend getaway you won’t forget.
From family trips to romantic weekends away, these destinations are familiar standbys that pack loads of nostalgic charm. They’re committed to consistency and remaining true to the characteristics that drew people to them in the first place. Here are 10 vintage vacation destinations we’re bringing back.
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If you’re looking for a winter getaway but still paying off holiday credit card debt, you can plan a luxury getaway without spending a fortune. It’s a matter of knowing where to go and how to find the best deals on airlines and hotels.Related: 11 Expensive Vacation Destinations That Will Be Cheaper in 2024More: Pocket an Extra $400 a Month With This Simple HackChoosing the right location helps. Many cities have a lower cost of living than you might expect, which can make your vacation cheaper when it comes to dining and attractions. You might also consider cashing in some credit card rewards for discounts on hotels and airfare or checking sites like Groupon for winter deals.U.S. destinations may be cheaper than international travel, especially if you can drive to your vacation spot. But you’ll also find incredible values in Mexico and the Caribbean right now, making it a great time to escape the snow. Here are some of our top picks for winter destinations that look and feel expensive but are surprisingly affordable.
Monticello, NY
New York’s Catskills Mountains offer skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, and many dining and entertainment options. Hunter Mountain and Windham Mountain deliver your downhill thrills for winter sports. There are also plenty of museums, art galleries and restaurants to explore.For a multi-night stay, consider The Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark. Right now, the resort offers a Groupon for as low as $199 a night. Whether you’re floating down the lazy river or dining at the contemporary Bixby’s Derby with their signature cocktails, you’ll feel like you’re living in the lap of luxury. You can even try your luck at the Resorts World Catskills Casino, just a four-minute drive away.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Bright lights, all-you-can-eat buffets, and luxurious hotels all side-by-side on the Strip in Las Vegas. A Vegas vacation could be your best bet this winter if you want to feel like a million bucks (and maybe even win some cash) without spending a lot.CheapFlights.com lists flights as low as $41 from Los Angeles to Las Vegas for late February. If you’re traveling cross-country, it will cost a bit more, but the warmer climate makes it worth the trip. Vegas has everything from shows to experiences, fine dining, and games of chance.To save money, snag a lower-cost hotel off the Strip. It’s just a short trip to all the excitement. We recommend a stop at the famed Bellagio Hotel to see the dancing fountain. Now through March 2, 2024, you can celebrate the Lunar New Year at Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Gardens by enjoying the eye-catching display, “Infinite Prosperity: The Year of the Dragon.”
Orange County, California
Rated one of the most affordable winter vacations in the U.S. by Travel + Leisure, Orange County, California, is home to Cedar Fair’s Knott’s Berry Farm, Disneyland, gorgeous beaches and plenty to do for all ages. Visiting the theme parks during the winter months will cut down on crowds. While most families wouldn’t consider Disney “cheap,” you get a lot of value for your money. Currently, Disneyland is offering one-day tickets as low as $50 for children ages 3 to 9.To save money, book off-site from Disney. We found plenty of hotel options for under $200 a night in Orange County. The DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Doheny Beach – Dana Point is roughly 30 to 40 minutes from Disneyland and Knotts Berry Farm and directly on Doheny State Beach. This upscale hotel boasts spacious rooms, an outdoor seating area with fire tables, and an outdoor pool if it’s warm enough to swim.We also found rooms at the Knott’s Berry Farm Hotel, walking distance to the Cedar Fair-owned park, for less than $200 a night on Expedia. The hotel is also a short, 12-minute drive to Disneyland, making it the perfect place for families who want to keep busy in the California sun.
Big Sky, Montana
Tourist destinations like Vail, Colorado, get expensive during ski season. For all the snowy mountains with less expense, consider Big Sky, Montana.An Expedia search yielded hotels, cabins, and whole homes for less than $150 per night, right on the border of Yellowstone National Park. Consider traveling with friends and sharing a spacious, mountainside home to get the best value. Keep in mind that you’ll pay a premium if you want to book a “ski-in, ski-out” location.PeakRankings.com shared the top 10 priciest lift tickets in the U.S. in 2022. Big Sky came in last, in spite of being the third-largest ski resort in North America. Vail came in second on the list, and the small Homewood resort in Tahoe came in first with the priciest lift tickets.Bottom Line: If you’re looking for affordable skiing and accommodations near the left coast this winter, at a renowned resort, head to Montana.
Merida, Mexico
If you’d rather escape the snow during your winter getaway, you’ll find lots of international options. Rated by multiple travel websites, including U.S. News & World Report, as one of the cheapest luxury travel destinations, Merida, Mexico, in the Yucatan Peninsula, offers warm weather, historic attractions, art museums, and more.U.S. News & World Report shared that December through March is the best time to visit for dry weather and temps in the high 80s to low 90s. To save money, choose a vacation rental instead of a hotel. However, you may find luxury and value at the all-inclusive Hotel Reef Yucatan, which is about 50 minutes from the regional airport in the Yucatan Peninsula.
Rincon, Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico vacations can start at prices as low as $100 per night in the capital city of San Juan, according to TheTravel.com. Other cities, like Rincon, may cost even less. Deemed a surfer’s paradise, Rincon makes our list of the best cheap winter travel destinations for affordable accommodations, white-sand beaches, and plenty to do, including art galleries, museums, and watersports.We found a one-bedroom apartment just five minutes from the beach for $75 a night on Expedia. The stovetop, microwave, and full-size refrigerator make it easier to cook some meals, saving money on food. Temperatures hover in the 70s and 80s, with very little rain, making Rincon, PR, the perfect place to escape the cold on a budget.
Turks & Caicos
For a family-friendly, all-inclusive tropical getaway, consider Beaches Turks & Caicos. Situated on Grace Bay, one of the world’s most highly regarded beaches, and home to a 45,000-square-foot waterpark, 10 pools, and 21 restaurants, Beaches offers plenty to do and see. You won’t need to leave the resort, which can help you save money. It also means you won’t have to spend time researching top tourist attractions or worrying about transportation on the island.Right now, the resort is offering a $500 air travel credit plus a $150 resort credit to make getting there even more affordable. With prices starting at $424 per night for adults and just $38 per night for kids, it’s perfect for a long weekend getaway.
Final Note
Whether you prefer to stay in the U.S. or venture to tropical destinations, you can plan a cheap winter vacation within your budget. In general, check multiple sites for the best prices on flights and accommodations, and set up price-drop alerts to save more. Snag it when you find a great deal, because prices may go up as February’s winter break approaches.If you’re not booking an all-inclusive resort, consider an affordable vacation rental where you can cook some of your own meals. This experience will give you a taste of living as a local as you shop at nearby markets and cook regional fare.
From nature-bonding eco-tours to illuminating culturism trips there are myriad options that cater to the diverse tastes of global travelers.
Welcome to the new era of travel. Becky up, because we’re about to dive into mind-boggling and heart-stopping vacation trends shaking up the traveler’s world in 2024. Brace yourself; these experiences are nothing like you’ve seen before.
Eco-friendly travel escapadesEco-friendly travel has become increasingly popular. This allows travelers to visit breathtaking natural landscapes while preserving the environment. These trips aim to minimize the environmental impact travel causes. This is done through the use of solar-powered resorts, zero-emission vehicles, plastic bans, and organic food.
Travelers can experience adventurous activities like mountain tracking and underwater exploration without causing harm. The locals also benefit from the tourism dollars these trips bring in.
Everglades holiday park experienceThe Everglades aren’t your conventional national park visit. A sprawling wetlands preserve, dominated by wild untamed grassland stretching as far as the eye can see – there’s nothing else quite like The Everglades Holiday Park.
Look beneath the water’s surface at schools of fish, rare birds in the sky or encounter an alligator up close in their natural habitat whilst air boating. You’re not just seeing the sights; you’re part of it now – Prepare to feel a ripple through your being.
Anchored in the South Florida wilderness, this vast and varied landscape is ingrained within America’s unique historical narrative, making it an exciting journey not just metaphysically but historically too.
Unique camping visionsEver dreamt about sleeping under the northern lights in a transparent igloo? Or waking up to serene forest sounds in a tree house? How about star gazing from your rooftop tent amidst mountains? They’ve all come true!
Moreover, camping is becoming more sustainable and inclusive. Eco-friendly equipment and accessible facilities are increasingly common, making these unique visions an adventure that leaves no carbon footprint behind.
Vacations for wellnessWellness tourism is booming, and there’s plenty of choice. Recharge your battery in a Himalayan wellness retreat. Experience the wisdom of Ayurveda, practise yoga, meditate amidst nature, and satiate your soul with organic meals prepared lovingly by locals.
You can also choose destinations famous for hot springs or healing centers. Such vacations are more than a break; they’re a path towards holistic well-being – An opportunity to let go, cleanse, and breathe energy into every vein.
Sports-oriented vacationsIf the thrill of the game is what fuels your passion, then sports-oriented vacations won’t disappoint! Envision waking up to tennis coaching sessions on grass courts or scuba diving into the deep blue sea.
Paintball adventures in lush forests, learning martial arts in Asian countries, or hiking in hilltop retreats; an array of options are available to suit every taste. These vacations encourage both physical fitness and a sense of camaraderie making them perfect for groups and families.
You can even cover seasonal events such as the Tour de France or World Surf League by planning your travels accordingly. Combining sports with tourism not only offers exhilarating experiences but also introduces you to diverse cultures and traditions.
Long-distance train tripsEager to traverse incredible landscapes without the strain of driving for long hours? Take a long-distance train trip and essentially let the world come to you.
Nostalgic rides of yore like The Orient Express have inspired a whole world of luxury rail journeys across towering mountains and endless plains. Traverse across Europe, Asia or the Americas without having to worry about check-ins or transfers.
Lounge in opulent cabins inspired by vintage aesthetics with gourmet dining and personal butler service. Let the picturesque panorama unfolding right outside your window delight you through day and night.
Sky-high city toursImagine exploring awe-inspiring landscapes from „above the clouds”. Thanks to sky-high city tours, you can add a unique perspective to your travel diary while enriching your soul with beauty seen only from great heights.
Hot-air balloon rides over Cappadocia’s magical terrain, paragliding through the Alps, or helicopter expeditions across vibrant cityscapes; all assure indelible experiences. Each trip leaves behind its unique mark on you – paint strokes of immeasurable beauty etched across the canvas of your memories.
Such sky-high escapades also present rare opportunities like watching sunsets from towering heights or moonlit landscapes stretching over miles – each bound to leave you speechless with their stunning allure.
Glowing forest getawaysDreamlike scenes await you in tours around glowing forests where magic meets reality. Imagine navigating murky woods dotted with bioluminescent organisms casting otherworldly hues under an ink-black sky.
Experiences like night hikes through Australia’s glow-worm laden caves, New Zealand’s Waitomo Glowworm Caves and Japan’s fox-fire season offer unforgettable spectacles. Each visit transports you into a world where fantasy comes to life – a realm where stars fall to earth and light up the woods.
Whether camping amid these glowing landscapes or stargazing in silent serenity, forest getaways provide an ideal respite from the grinds of everyday life while offering an intimate encounter with Mother Nature at her most enchanting.
The rise of culturismIncreasingly, travelers are gravitating towards cultural immersion. Soaking up local customs and traditions, tasting regional delicacies and participating in traditional activities are gaining prominence as more than just a pastime.
This is ‘culturism’ – a rise in travelers keenly interested in understanding the diverse cultures of the world.
Encounter cultural traditions unchanged for centuries or learn a local language – each experience adds to the richness of your journey.
Travel destinations that showcase art, history, heritage, and food culture hold immense appeal for those intrigued by different lifestyles making every trip an enlightening journey into humanity’s vast cultural library.
Thrilling airboat toursAdventurous travelers eager for exciting airboat tours through remote wetlands and marshes can experience these thrilling rides across Florida and beyond. Zooming across shallow waters in shallow-bottomed airboats allows close-up sightings of local wildlife in their natural habitats at exhilarating speeds.
Knowledgeable guides adeptly navigate wetlands ecosystems while educating passengers about the native species and preservation efforts vital to these unique landscapes. Airboat trips in destinations like the Florida Everglades, Louisiana swamplands or even Minnesota’s scenic network of over 10,000 lakes promise memorable, breathtaking encounters with nature and wildlife.
With the wind rushing through your hair as flocks take flight across endless wetland vistas, these electrifying airboat tours deliver adrenaline-pumping exploration opportunities.
Virtual reality breaksImagine an escape from reality without leaving your home–thanks to VR technology. Virtual reality breaks allow you to immerse yourself in any environment of your choosing – ancient ruins, far-off galaxies or even undersea landscapes – all from the comfort of your couch.
The thrill of adventure is amplified with interactive elements that include narrations, games, quizzes and real-time guidance. Providing experiences that seem tangible while being entirely simulated breaks away conventional barriers and offers new entertainment avenues.
While certainly a departure from traditional vacations, VR breaks might just fulfill those travel dreams that seem implausible – making them an enticing prospect for novelty-seekers and thrill-lovers alike.
In closingThe world of travel has greatly evolved. From nature-bonding eco-tours to illuminating culturism trips, technology driven VR breaks to energizing sports vacations, there are myriad options that cater to the diverse tastes of global travelers.
At its core, travel is all about new experiences that widen your perspective, challenge understanding and instill people with a sense of appreciation for this wonderful world. As you embrace these emerging vacation trends, you open yourself to a universe of discovery and joy that truly enriches lives.
Yaёl Bizouati-KennedyJanuary 27, 2024 at 1:00 PMAzmanJaka / Getty ImagesLooking to make enough extra cash to splurge on self-care, such as a vacation? Worried that your normal income won’t cover it? Then generating a steady stream of money with little effort via passive income– that is, money not derived from active involvement, such as salary — is the way to go.Grant Cardone: Here’s How To Become Rich If You’re Earning an Average SalaryLearn: How To Get $340 a Year in Cash Back – for Things You Already BuyBelow are just a few means of passive income generation that you can use to treat yourself to that long-desired getaway treat:1. Real Estate CrowdfundingOne way to generate passive income is by participating in real estate investments through crowdfunding platforms. These platforms pool funds from multiple investors to finance real estate projects, such as rental properties or commercial buildings.In turn, investors earn passive income from rental income or property appreciation.2. FarmlandAs land crowdfunding platform AcreTrader noted, land is one of the oldest investment classes in existence, producing enormous wealth over generations.Per the website, “We think United States farmland represents an attractive, long-term investment while providing significant relative capital preservation during times of economic turmoil.”This crowdfunded investment enables investors to buy fractional shares of an entity, while AcreTrader Management handles all aspects of administration and property management, the company said on its website.As Retire Before Dad noted, investment returns have outperformed commercial real estate, gold, bonds and even the S&P 500 since 1990, according to data compiled by AcreTrader.3. Rent Out Your Vehicle(s)You can actually rent any vehicle you have, whether boat or car.If you have a boat, you can rent it on Boatsetter to make some extra passive income.You can also generate cash by renting out your car on several platforms. For instance, HyreCar says on its website that owners can become “autopreneurs” by turning their car into a passive income stream.4. Create an Online CourseAnother way to generate passive income that can help you fund your vacation is by creating an online course. Radio host and financial adviser Dave Ramsey has suggested using learning sites like Udemy, in which you can use your know-how to create a learning course on their platform.“Once it’s published, it doesn’t require any additional maintenance from you, and you get paid when people take your class. It’s a low-output way of making some extra cash and helping people. That’s like a win-win . . . win,” he said.5. Rent Your Storage SpaceWebsites such as Neighbor enable you to “Turn the space you already have into cash. Post for free today! Earn thousands in passive income.”This “no hustle side-hustle” allows people to rent any kind of extra space: a garage, a driveway, a parking lot or an unpaved lot.6. Advertise on Your CarAnother minimal effort way to generate passive income is to advertise other businesses on your car.For instance, sites such as Wrapify pay people to wrap their cars with advertising, getting paid by the mile to drive as usual.7. Open a High-Yield Savings AccountAs Dave Ramsey has noted, this is one of the easiest ways to create a passive income stream and help you reach some of your short-term financial goals.“You can find plenty of online banks and financial institutions out there today offering online savings accounts and money market accounts with annual percentage yields (APYs) between 3-4%,” he said.8. Take Stock Pictures to Sell OnlineIf photography is your hobby, you might want to consider selling them online — generating passive income with little to no effort.“If you like going out on the weekends to take photos and videos, consider posting them for sale online. That way people on the hunt for new stock images and videos may find and use your images. Plus, you’re able to sell these images for as long as you have them posted online,” according to Credit Karma.Read: Ramit Sethi Shares 3 Tips for Becoming Rich on an Average SalaryEach of these passive revenue streams can be used to make relatively easy money quickly and with very minimal effort. From those revenue streams you can begin saving for that long-awaited vacation you’ve been planning, without dipping into your normal budget or income.More From GOBankingRatesThis article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 8 Passive Income Ideas To Fund Your Next Vacation