In tough economic times, many people don't have thousands of dollars for a trip. That doesn't mean there are no travel options available to them. Take a look at five trips that are each available for about $1200 USD. How much can you expect to see and do at that price?
Mark Kahler, licensed to About.com, Inc.Last-minute getaways can be an enjoyable adventure. Sites such as
Lastminute.com can put these packages together for less than $1200. A recent search there revealed a family of four could travel from a city such as Memphis to
Washington D.C. with air and a hotel on the Mall for the weekend at a cost of under $1000. Washington is a city where a rental car might be more of a liability than necessity. Public transportation and free sites could save that remaining $200 for mass transit passes and meals.
Mark Kahler, licensed to About.comWhat would it cost to spend a long weekend in the Big Apple? If we exclude the cost of getting there and getting home, can you enjoy yourself on $600 per person for three days? It can be done! Not every hotel room in Manhattan costs $400/night. There are
several levels of budget hotels that can be booked for less than $200/night. Hostel patrons can cut the cost even more. If you agree to splurge on only one nice meal per day, dining costs can be kept under $75/day per person. New York's efficient
subway system can keep your need for taxi fares to a minimum, and admissions can be discounted using products such as
The New York Pass. As you plan, keep in mind that many of New York's greatest experiences are free.
Mark Kahler, licensed to About.com, Inc.The U.S. National Park system is a treasure that millions enjoy each year. But millions of other travelers miss the opportunity to discover the great experiences available in these parks. It's possible to find at least one park within a day's drive of most U.S. locations. Great Smoky Mountain National Park is the most-visited, and charges no entry fee. But in places where fees are collected, an $80 annual pass gives unlimited access to a family traveling together. Many parks have lodging facilities that offer resort-style services at a fraction of prices you'll find outside the system; others provide excellent camping. Depending on your location, you might be able to visit several parks and still not spend the entire $1200 budget.
Used with permission of Rolands RizenbergsTwo people can take a three-day (sometimes up to five-day) cruise for just more than $300 USD/person. That figure can sometimes be even lower on last-minute bookings. If you live within driving distance of a port, you'll have plenty of money remaining in your $1200 budget. If not, you'll need to find a airfare deal that gets you to the port city. Fortunately, many ports are surrounded by multiple airports, making your fare shopping a bit easier. Cruise fares such as those offered at Carnival are typical of many lines. They're likely to include shipboard accommodations, meals, entertainment, children's programs and use of fitness centers. Usually not included: alcoholic beverages, land-based tours, tips, and fees such as fuel supplements.
Mark Kahler, licensed to About.com, Inc.Consider combining charity and tourism: Find a place that needs help (perhaps during spring break or some other holiday period). Sometimes you can stay in private homes or dormitories. Other times, local hotels will provide discounts. Spend several days providing volunteer labor in a place hit by natural disaster or in need of a helping hand. Also set aside time explore, sample local cuisine or even check into a luxury hotel for a day once the work is done. With $1200, two people could reach most parts of the U.S. and have money left over for some modest exploring. More importantly, you could provide a valuable service to those in need.
New Orleans is one example of a place where help is needed.
