Fall foliage trips are fun and memorable, but can also be costly. This truly is "high season" in places like New England, where quaint inns are booked years in advance and at top-dollar rates. One key to savings is planning, and there's no better place to start than About.com Go New England Foliage Central.
The Grand Canyon becomes much more affordable once the summer crowds depart the rims. Many veteran travelers to this area say there is value in staying at the south rim lodges, where you can get up early to see the best views or have a convenient place to start hikes and excursions. In late autumn, prices for these accommodations fall, usually by 30 percent or more from summer rates. Winter offers usually start in late November.
Caribbean hotels in places such as St. Lucia offer fall and winter deals. Example: The The Village Inn and Spa on Rodney Bay on the northern tip of the island nation offers rooms from $119/night with the seventh night free through Oct. 31. Check the linked page for promo codes to use at booking.
Walt Disney World's Fall promotion page claims you'll save up to 28 percent on select WDW resorts. The offer is good for travel through Dec. 24, but must be booked by Sept. 26. The best deals are in October and November, and the week immediately prior to Christmas Day is the cheapest.
Europe is a favorite fall destination, and you'll find the attractions far less crowded even if the weather is rather cool and rainy at times. LastMinute.com getaway-style bargains to 10 European cities.
Go-today.com offers airfare/hotel combinations for 6-8 nights: Ireland from $389; Paris from $629; London from $759; Italy from $999. These rates are significantly lower than at this time last year. Book these trips as early as possible, because the pre-autumn offers usually don't remain through the season.
Don't forget to check out Deals of the Week for late-breaking travel bargains throughout the season.
