I would usually put this one last – but it is so good, I have to make sure all eyes see it. If anyone has tried to travel over the holidays, you know the prices can double/triple during our days off! However, Funjet is offering flights from $199, yes $199 roundtrip to the Caribbean during the Holiday season – and that is just the beginning of these amazing deals. Yes, I’m a total Caribbean bum. The warm salty air, the miles and miles of sand that give way to some of the most gorgeous turquoise water anywhere is enough motivation than I need. That image coupled with the fact that its now cheaper then ever before to go, makes the Caribbean the bonus destination this week! Fly into the Caribbean and stay for 3 nights during this Holiday Sale for $429 and you save $570 per person! You say you want added value? Alright, how about bring the kiddies along and they will stay, play and eat free! You have to love the Holidays!
Now that I got the holiday excitement out of the way, here are the best deals and destinations of the week!
Hawaii. Although this might sound like an automatic for most people, it must fall on any list of places to go. Comprised of hundreds of islands spread over 1500 miles, the state of Hawaii has been a sod after spot for families, honeymooners and everyone else looking to enjoy its acclimate weather and its lush beaches, not to mention their bewildering gold, red, green and black sands. With breast cancer awareness month upon us, you can battle two issues with one preverbal stone. You can visit the amazing island of Oahu for 5 nights including air for $939, while helping out a very important cause. The “Travel Pink, Travel Oahu” makes donations to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Travel during this time will save you close to $200; as oppose to traveling there during the high season.
Australia. Fall asleep on the plan and wake up in this beautiful and diverse English speaking country With its over 2.9 million square miles of land, this country is filled with history, underwater treasures and, for the nature lover, some of the most amazing creatures to ever roam the wild. If you’re a wine lover, or one that occasionally enjoys a nice glass, Australia, with its average temperature of 67F (19C), has some of the world’s best Chardonnay. Take a journey through the extraordinary history and architecture of the Iconic Sydney Opera House. With dimensions of 605 feet long and about 388 feet wide, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has held some of the most sought after venues in the world. Constructed in 3 stages, this structure holds 5 different venues that make up the main performance facilities; The Concert Hall, The Opera Theatre, The Drama Theatre, The Playhouse and the Studio. If Australia is your idea of a true getaway, and with all there is to experience you are not alone, then take advantage of this terrific offer. Air and a 6 night stay, with a tour of this amazing attraction is yours for $1999. This rate is for travel from Los Angeles, usually with advertising if you are traveling from any where but the place they give you the price for, the price goes way up – but in this case, the reason this deal is so amazing and much more affordable than in the past, is because there is only a $150 flight add-on regardless of where your origin in the United States!
Affordable Cruising w/ Low Deposits. With the dollar these days, a lot of our dreams of visiting exotic destinations like Europe/South America/Alaska may be put off for years later, “when things get better”. However, the cruise lines are very aware of our economic situation and are making our way around the Globe more affordable. Princess Cruises, one of the most respected names in the Cruise industry has is offering rates as low as $146/nt. Pick a place on the globe, Denmark, Italy, Mexico, Brazil, Alaska and my personal favorite St. Petersburg, Russia are all well within your reach. Princess is offering a worldwide sale including coupon booklets for the cruise that will certainly save you money on board. The best part is if you want to plan ahead and reserve the space for 2009 plus take advantage of the deep discounts now, you only have to give a $100 deposit. If you have not cruised before, I can tell you the deposits are usually much higher! Plus they guarantee these low prices – so you don’t have to think that the price may get lower later. Many of the sailings are offering cabin upgrades and other amenities. A new look at an old way of spending your vacation is what you might be looking for, and Princess Cruises makes your search a little less congested.
Jamaica. As Jack Frost is getting ready to nip on your nose, what better way to fight back then heading to the Caribbean? The need for Hot Chocolate as an anti-freeze is absolutely not needed here; and proper footwear while on the beach is no required. I have been to Jamaica six times- I guess I like it there. Lately, I hear some negative talk, fear in some cities – however these are not the places the tourists frequent and the myths should be squashed. Jamaica has some of the most beautiful beaches I have ever seen, and truly gives you that “island, I am way from it all” feeling. Jamaica is known for its all inclusives, where you never have to leave the resort except for a dip in the ocean and perhaps an excursion to hear some reggae. The deals to Jamaica – especially these all inclusive resorts are outstanding. One deal I found with Air Jamaica Vacations is with The Holiday Inn SunSpree Resort. Relax to the sounds of Calypso music for 3 magical nights at the All-Inclusive Montego Bay resort. That’s right; everything is included for your vacation. Not convinced yet of this great deal…well, how about round trip airfare, two checked bags free (can you believe that they are charging to your luggage!), transfers and use of land and water sports and entertainment. Also, flying Air Jamaica has been one of the best airline experiences I have ever had. Got kids? Bring them along with you. Not only do you save up to a whopping 60% off, your kids get to stay free! I’m sure that Mr. Frost will be waiting for you when you get back, but nothing like prolonging the inevitable!
Fiji. Yes the South Pacific has been on my table of places to go for quite some time now. I have found deals to this side of the world, I never thought could exist. Go to sleep on the plane – wake up in paradise. The Republic of the Fiji Islands is an island nation in the South Pacific. East of Vanuatu, west of Tonga and Tuvalu to the south, it occupies about 322 islands. One spot in Fiji that I have paid close attention too is Nadi. The third largest conurbation in Fiji, it is located on the western side of the main island. The scuba, snorkeling is outstanding — the color of the water is like no other, and the culture, interesting and colorful – yes, you are really on the other side of the world. You can take ferries to the Mamanuca Group of islands along with experiencing the mud-flat beaches. Other exciting sites to take in are the Waqadra Botanical Gardens and the Sleeping Giant Gardens, which house Raymond Burr’s magnificent orchid collection. If Europe and Hawaii have become the everyday talk as to where your vacation travels will lead you, this might be a nice change; and with prices starting at $999 per person including air to Nadi, you can start telling your friends “I’m finally going to the South Pacific!”