A clean or dirty room can mean the difference between a happy repeat guest or an unhappy one, a disgruntled customer who tells 10 of their friends never to stay at a certain property.

Here is a great article about how to find a clean hotel room.

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Land-based travel opportunities are plentiful and there are aggressive deals right now being offered on Hawaii and the Caribbean. Finding flights to get to and from these areas can be a bit challenging, but the deal may well be worth the extra cost of the flight for the experience, especially with all-inclusive resort packages in the Caribbean and Mexico.

All Inclusives, The National Parks and Las Vegas Are Dealing

All-inclusive resorts are great for multi-generational trips, offering something for people of all ages. In addition, for families, Disney is being very competitive offering deals at Disneyland, Disney World and on Disney Cruises. Domestically, Las Vegas is starting to again offer deals for close-in bookings at various times when large conventions are not dominating the town. Other popular domestic travel destinations this year are the national parks (book early as lodge space is limited), and Washington D.C. There aren’t necessarily many deals for DC but it is emerging as a popular destination.

What is the major challenge for travel this year? The airlines. The major carriers have made some major changes in the way they do business. Using mileage programs is becoming more difficult with fewer seats available under these programs. Capacity cuts have made finding convenient flight schedules more challenging. Airline bankruptcies have reduced competition and ala cart services are driving up the price of airline tickets through extra charges for baggage, seat location and meals. However, that’s not to say good deals can’t be found.

Consult A Travel Professional

Trends these days are finding that many people, instead of spending hours on the internet are again consulting a travel agent. Agents have the ability to tap right into the airline system inventory and look at combining flights in ways that the general public may not. Yes, there is a minimal ticketing fee charged, but then again, even the airlines are charging people ticketing fees when calling in for assistance. Also, having an agent book your tickets gives you someone in your corner to help if there are changes, cancellation of your flights, or other issues with your travel.

Protect Yourself

Last but not least, no matter where you travel, or how you book your vacation plans, be cautious with whom you are conducting business. Make sure to work with an accredited company that has a good reputation, a strong financial backing and will be there in the months ahead, especially if you are making plans for later in the year or into 2010. One way to protect your vacation investment is to take out a travel insurance policy with a third party insurance company. These policies offer coverage for supplier default in addition to traditional trip cancellation/interruption and medical coverage. Buying insurance through the tour company may be a lower cost in some, (not all), cases, but it does not cover you if the company goes out of business. When working with major players like cruise lines, and large tour companies this is not usually a concern, but when working with a smaller, lesser known company, make sure and conduct your due diligence.

Whether traveling for long weekends, a family reunion, special occasion, or a two week vacation there are lots of deals to be had. People still need a break from the day-to-day wear and tear of ordinary life, so get out there, enjoy life and travel safe. Happy Trails and Happy Travels!

Roxanne

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