It is cloudy windy, and rain is quite likely on this Wednesday, May 5, 2009 in Bellingham, WA.

WHEN INSULTS HAD CLASS??
"I feel so miserable without you; it's almost like having you here."  Steve Bishop

NEED A VACATION, but worried about the economy and being able to afford the respite away? The Bellingham Herald in an article on travel entitled, Especially in these tough times, it pays to shop around, some hints were given that might make such a vacation feasible.

·        Hotels - Haggle for a better room rate. Some hotels offer one free night if you stay two. Use AAA, AARP or any other discount card or coupon to get the best possible rate. Haggling may get you a 10 or 15 percent discount.
·        Car Rentals - Again, negotiate the best rate you can. Ask about special deals. Taxes and fees are higher at airport auto rental locations than non-airport locations. Waive the prepaid gas option, but return the car with a full tank. Opt not to take the car rental company’s collision damage waiver and save “a bundle” that way.

·        Air flight - check out as many internet sources as you can for the best airfares. “Ask Arthur Frommer,” the travel guru recommends checking with aggregators (cheapflights.com, farechase.com, kayak.com, sidestep.com, etc.), who list not only  the large, mainstream airlines, but smaller budget lines such as AirTran. Once this is done, then book your flight at sites like expedia.com, orbitz.com, priceline.com and travelocity.com. It is believed by some that Monday evening to the following morning is when you’re likely to catch the early posting of lower fares, although some say Tuesday night is a great time. Rates are dramatically cheaper if you can travel mid-week instead of on or around the weekend.

·        Cruise - You might find cruises as low as $58 a day. This price include meals and entertainment (except specialty restaurants), but it is s an inside cabin you are paying for and extras include port charges, drinks, shore excursions, shopping, gaming, tipping and airfare, if it’s not included in the package. Be sure to ask questions and know precisely what you are buying or you are in for some post-cruise surprises.  

·        Driving - About 80 percent of Americans use the family car for vacations. If gas prices remain reasonable, this may be the least expensive way to go. Pick destinations within easy driving distance like less expensive small towns and cities or nearby resorts and attractions. Choose accommodations that offer free breakfasts or suites/cottages with mini kitchens.

·        Day Trips - if no vacation away from home is possible, consider a staycation.  Stay home, find a deal at a local hotel (with a pool?) and take advantage of nearby attractions like parks, zoos, museums, beaches, theaters, etc.*