Monthly Archives: January 2009

Cheap Orlando Vacation

January 24, 2009
[0] comments

Cheap Orlando Vacation – 8 Great Tips to Plan an Orlando Vacation on a budget

Cheap Orlando Vacation – Is it even possible to go on a magical vacation to Orlando on a budget? It is certainly possible and here are 8 great tips to help you plan that discount Orlando vacation.

Orlando is home to many world famous theme parks and is one of those destinations where everyone feels like a kid at heart. There is so much to do, so many theme parks and attractions to visit that is easy to feel the pinch in your wallet. It may appear to be impossible but there are ways to plan a great vacation on a budget. Here are 8 tips to accomplish that.

cheap orlando vacation, cheap orlando vacations1. Look for a vacation package: It is most of the time wise to purchase a vacation package rather than buying separate tickets for airfare, accommodation, park passes and other stuff. Theme parks like Disney and Universal also offer vacation packages including airfare, hotel accommodation, ground transportation, theme park admissions and meals. Look online for reputable companies offering good packages.

2. Keep your travel dates flexible: If you really want to save money and also have a great vacation, just keep your vacation schedule flexible. Orlando enjoys great weather throughout the year and hence if you can plan your vacation during off- peak times then you can get great deals on admissions to attractions and accommodation.

3. Cheap airfare: You can check for some hot airfare deals which airlines offer from time to time and some websites also let you name your price too.

4. Look for the best deal on accommodation: Pick your accommodations based on the travel plan and what attractions you are planning to visit.

5. Rent a villa or vacation home for a big family: If you are looking for accommodation for a big family it might be a good idea to check out the Vacation Homes for rent or Villas. They offer excellent amenities and they often have 4 to 5 bedrooms or more. This way you can accommodate a big family for one price per night and save on luxury hotel rentals.

6. Check park websites and look for extras in tickets: Whenever you plan for trip to the theme parks, always check park’s website for updated information. You can get some highly discounted Orlando vacation package or some special deal. Often parks are associated with other area attractions, tourism groups, hotel association or other groups and they offer discounted tickets and passes also.

7. Dining out: If you have a stove/microwave and refrigerator where you stay, it will be a good idea to eat out a couple of days and cook your own meal the rest of the days. Cooking your own is always cheaper and you can plan some simple microwave recipes. There are many discount coupon books available at all major locations that offer great savings. You can also check out breakfast buffet places like Ponderosa Steak House.

8. Just ask: One great tip that I can give while making a reservation in person/ email or phone is to Just Ask. "Is that the best you can do?" This simple question has saved us a bundle. Give that a try and let me know.

Have a cool Orlando vacation on a budget.

By Orlando Expert
Published: 11/15/2008

Posted in Destinations | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

Discount Vacation Packages

January 23, 2009
[0] comments

How I took a Great Vacation that cost me very little

If you are short on funds this year, don’t cut your vacation short , Just check out how we can save you money on tickets and or hotel stays,

Well to start out with I have to tell you that when it’s time for vacation or business I drive my car, take a bus or go on the train if possible. I do not go up into the clouds for anybody or any reason. I hate the feeling of falling more then any thing else that a person could be put through. Oh yea you are saying right now it’s still the safest way to travel, but when you do crash it is the longest time before you hit the ground, so no thanks.

The first thing I do before going on vacation is get my car ready. I get the oil changed a few days before I leave on vacation. It seems to me every time I get a fresh oil change the engine runs smoother and the car gets better mileage. Also make sure your air filter is clean and your tires are at the right air pressure. These things might sound simple but they could get you a few more miles to the gallon which is a big saving these days. Also I add a fuel additive like Ultimate-me2 in my gas tank and get additional miles to the gallon.

The next step is to find some good vacation packages which give you discount hotels or 3 day 2 night stay for a low cost. Some even give you free amusement tickets, golfing rounds, water country passes, visa cards or even a fourth night stay where you are vacationing. Still don’t get it then read on.

I personally have done many timeshare presentations through out my life time, especially when I go to Florida. There we set up five appointments to visit different timeshares. In Florida you can schedule a tour at 7:30 in the morning so it doesn’t mess up your whole day. What is cool is they give you breakfast and it is like eating at golden coral and when I am done eating they give me money or attraction tickets for many different attractions. With the money from the five tours and all those meals I bet I save $ 700.00 dollars right there.

The big reason I save a lot is I own a resort, so I only have to pay a maintenance fee every year which is much less then I got for those tours just taken. It is not a lot to give up for what you receive in return. They will even give you another free vacation for going so you don’t even have to pay for that the next time you take a vacation.

Getting different vacation packages is the way to go as there is a lot of things to do at a resort that are free, swimming ,miniature golf, tennis, karaoke, bingo and many other things so you hardly have to leave the resort to spend any money at all. I usually get some amusement tickets to Disney World or Bush Gardens and Sea World at the timeshare as a gift, so I don’t even have to get those unless I do more then one amusement park.

So there you have it, sit back and see if you can come up with your own discount vacation packages and maybe a few ideas on how to get some of your vacations for free. Or simply go to vacationpackagestogo.com, they have done the work for you.

Why spend more then you have to when vacation time comes around? We can help you keep some of your hard earned money this vacation season by offering you free attraction tickets or hotel stays at http://vacationpackagestogo.com

By Bud Weiss
Published: 1/3/2008

 cheap family vacations, cheap vacation family

Posted in Cost-savers | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

Family Cruise Vacation

January 22, 2009
[6] comments

Are You Seeking A Family Cruise Vacation?

Discover more about the different types of family cruise vacations that are available right now

Does it ever feel like you keep taking the same family vacation every year? If you have found yourself in a vacationing rut, then you could do yourself a favor by checking into family cruise vacations and see what new kinds of adventures you can provide for the whole family, no matter what the ages of your kids.

Family cruise vacations have become a very hot trend in family travel for a number of great reasons such as: beautiful cruise vacations are affordable; family cruises are tailored to have a number of fun activities and excursions for all members of the family from toddlers, to teens, to adults, and to seniors as well; there are cruises that make the rounds to just about any part of the globe your family is interested, so no matter what time of the year you can find a cruise to warmer climes and sunnier skies.

cruise vacation packageBut, before you embark on the planning of your family cruise vacations, it can be very helpful if you first bring the family together and carefully talk about various cruise vacations information first. This will help everyone understand what kinds of options are available and help you select the family cruise that is going to be the best fit for the interests of your family.

Many good summer vacations start aboard ship with Disney family cruise vacations which are one of the favorite choices of younger families. However, if your kids range in age from grade school through to high school, you might want to look into the cruise vacations information from the other cruise lines that also cater to children and families and that offer some excellent family package cruise options.

As you sit together to review the family cruise vacations information on the different packages from the various cruise lines, take a careful look at what each package has to offer for the different ages and interests of both the children and parents. You can enjoy beautiful cruise vacations that not only feature exotic locales, but also have on-ship activities such as basketball, swimming, rock climbing, special ship tours, kid’s clubs, shopping, full spa services, and evening entertainment. And, family cruise packages also have foods that the kids will enjoy, such as hamburgers and pizza, as well as the gourmet feasts that cruise ships are renowned for.

Of course, there is always the option of discount ski vacations in Colorado as the way to spend your winter break. But, for a growing number of people, enjoying the tropical breezes and shimmering seas that they can surround themselves with on family cruise vacations is the best way to be rejuvenated and ready to face the rest of winter.

Discover more helpful information on vacations that will help you learn about the various travel destinations one of which would be discount luxury cruises.

By Chris M
Published: 12/6/2007

family cruise vacations

Holiday Cruises Can Be Absolutely Magical
Anyone that gets the chance to go on a cruise of any sort should very much choose to do so and to try and suck it all in because it will seriously be one of the…

Family Cruise to Cozumel, Mexico
Petersen Family. Kasey, Marni, Kayla, Morgan, Kyle, & Kolton. Friday, January 16, 2009. Family Cruise to Cozumel, Mexico. Posted by Petersen Family at 1:25 PM.

Tips on planning a family cruise
You might, like us, wonder if sailing over the blue horizon as a family group is a good idea. Earlier this year, we weighed the advantages of holding a family gathering at sea versus, say, a week at a land resort or mountain retreat.

Posted in Destinations | Tagged , , | 6 Comments

Affordable Family Vacations

January 21, 2009
[1] comment

 Enjoying Affordable Family Vacations in Florida

It can be easy to find affordable family vacations in Florida that are fun and exciting. By doing your research and taking some time to plan carefully, you can take budget vacations that feel extravagant. From staying in private homes instead of hotels to traveling during off-peak times, learn some great tips that can save you money when you plan your next trip to Florida.

Affordable family vacations in Florida don’t have to be dull and boring. In fact, budget vacations can still offer you and your family unlimited options for fun, relaxation, and even education. And saving money on your Florida vacation is easy to do, as long as you do your research ahead of time and investigate all of the possibilities, from the month in which you take your trip to the places that you plan to visit.

Affordable Family Vacations: It’s all in the Timing

disney family vacationThe most important aspect of planning affordable family vacations in Florida is to remember that timing is critical. By visiting the state in the off season, March and April or September and October, you can enjoy budget vacations and save money, time, and hassle. During the off season, everything from accommodations to theme park admissions can be had at a reduced rate.

In addition, remember when planning your affordable family vacations that plane fare to and from Florida, whether you are traveling from within the United States or from outside the country, is likely to be less expensive during the off season. Plus, when you book your budget vacations during off-peak times of the year, you will find that the parks, museums, shops, and restaurants are all far less crowded, which can save you a great deal of time.

Quality Accommodations Can Be a Part of Budget Vacations

Whether you visit Florida during peak or off-peak months, one of the best ways to ensure that your budget vacations are enjoyable is to stay in a privately owned home rather than in a hotel. Private homes are a mainstay of affordable family vacations, offering quality accommodations in excellent locations, often for less money per night than a standard hotel room, particularly for larger groups. In addition, vacation rental homes offer amenities that hotels can’t match, including fully stocked game rooms, private pools and hot tubs, comprehensive kitchens, and spacious bedrooms.

Staying in vacation rental homes during affordable family vacations means that you can save money on food as well. Visit a local supermarket at the beginning of your trip and stock the kitchen with either fresh food, if you like to cook, or readymade meals if you are looking for a way to save time as well. Either way, keeping the cost of food low will keep your budget vacations on track. And if you do treat yourself and your friends or family to restaurant meal, you can save your leftovers for the next day, rather than having to leave them behind.

Additional Tips for Your Affordable Family Vacations

  • No matter what area of Florida will be the focus of your affordable family vacations, from the Panhandle to the Keys to Orlando, you will find discount coupons are available online and also in grocery stores and other local shops. Because many tourists visit these areas, there is a great deal of competition for your business, and so it makes sense to take advantage of this when planning your budget vacations.
  • Budget vacations require booking every aspect of your travel as far in advance as possible. For example, some theme parks offer specials if you book your tickets at a certain point before your trip. Other attractions and accommodations may also offer you a deal if you book in bulk (for multiple tickets or multiple nights). Always call ahead to see what offers are available.
  • Don’t limit yourself to the "big name" attractions. If you are set on visiting Orlando, check out some of the smaller parks as well as those that are more famous. The rest of Florida has some amazing sights to offer for those taking budget vacations as well – museums, aquariums, and beaches are plentiful throughout the state. Affordable family vacations can also include trips off the beaten path, where you can find fun activities that also can save you money.
  • Travel agents may not find you the cheapest deals, so it makes sense to instead book your budget vacations yourself. However, if you feel that using the services of a travel agent could save you time, you can utilize their services and still take affordable family vacations by researching things such as car rental and home or hotel rental to find the best rates and then presenting your findings to the travel agent for booking.
  • When booking your flight, particularly if you are doing it yourself, make sure that you thoroughly investigate all of your options. Today, there are many websites that cater to budget vacations and that give you competitive prices on flights from anywhere in the world to Florida. Don’t just use one – check them all out before you finalize your plans.
  • Above all, take advantage of the Internet for every aspect of creating affordable family vacations. Go online and search on the cities you wish to visit or the specific attractions in which you are interested to see if anything special is going on while you will be there. You can also call or email each destination to see if they are offering any deals that can make your budget vacations even more exciting.

Remember, a trip to Florida doesn’t have to equal a major expense. As long as you take into consideration the time of year in which you are traveling and do your research before you go, you will find lots of ways to enjoy affordable family vacations while not skimping on your fun. Have a great trip!

About the Author

Fraser Hannah spent eight years working as a freelance television production manager and researcher before leaving to join his family’s business working with the elderly. He founded Traveling2Florida.com in 2003 after purchasing his own vacation home in Florida and being frustrated by the lack of vision shown by many of the existing vacation rental sites. Traveling2Florida.com now connects thousands of travelers directly with the owners of high-quality vacation rentals in Florida, from Orlando to the Florida Keys. 

By Fraser Hannah
Published: 5/31/2007

 disney family vacations

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , | 1 Comment

Buy Discount Lift Tickets

January 21, 2009
[4] comments

Keystone Lift Tickets – Buy Cheap Discount Lift Tickets for Keystone Resort

Read abouat Keystone lift tickets and how to find the best deal on cheap discount ski tickets for Keystone, Colorado.

You’re moments away from walking up to the ticket counter at the Keystone Ski Resort and laying down a wad of cash so you and your family can experience the Three Peaks at Keystone. I know its worth every penny, but here is an idea. Let’s say you planned your vacation in advance and bought Keystone lift tickets from the comfort of your own home. This way, you don’t have to slop around in your ski boots while carrying your children’s ski gear. Since you bought your discount lift tickets online you simply show up and hop on the lift. Read on to learn about buying discount lift tickets for the Keystone Resort.

Ahhhh….the power of the internet. What a miraculous thing. Simply log on and spend just a couple minutes finding ski deals that will save you 10-30% on lift tickets and activities. Many lift ticket consolidators that sell lift tickets online will send you the voucher via email. Simply plan ahead, book your tickets and sit back while they send you your voucher for ski tickets to the Keystone Resort.
inexpensive family vacations small children

Many savvy searchers go to Ebay and search for "Keystone lift tickets" or "Keystone ski coupons." Ebay has a multitude of coupon options. Though you will still have to wait in line at the ticket counter, these coupons could save you a good deal of money if you’re coming with a big group.

Speaking of groups. Often times groups visiting Keystone are offered bulk discounts. If you’re coming with a group of 20 people or more it is advisable to contact the resort directly to see if they are willing to provide a free ticket or offer discount rates.

Scalping tickets at the resort sometimes works out but is not the preferred method for saving money on cheap Keystone ski tickets. However, many families buy multiple days for skiing only to realize their legs are too tired for another day on the slopes. If you are lucky enough they will walk up to you and offer the tickets directly. Keep your eyes out, they are often found hanging around the ticket corner or in the parking lot. MAKE SURE you check that the dates are valid on the ticket. Again, this is not the preferred method for getting discount tickets but sometimes works.

Don’t forget to check out prices online for Keystone ski rentals and equipment. If you preorder your ski gear you can save money as well.

Keystone, Colorado is a place built on authentic character and smiling locals. Come experience skiing Keystone’s famous back bowls but make sure you don’t pay full price!

By Colorado Travel Company
Published: 12/4/2007

inexpensive family vacations ideas

Posted in Cost-savers | Tagged | 4 Comments

How to Survive a Family Vacation

January 20, 2009
[1] comment

How to Survive a Family Vacation

If you are taking a family vacation you may need some help to survive. Here are some tips to smooth over the rough spots.

So you are ready to go on a family vacation, at least that is what you think. Now I’m not talking about the little romantic getaway with your significant other, I’m talking about the full fledged family outing that includes some extended family that you aren’t usually around. This can be an extremely enjoyable time for most of us but sometimes tension runs a bit high and personalities clash, so what is it that can help you to survive the rough spots on a family vacation?

1. Have some Me Time – Sure it’s great to get away with people that you love, but sometimes you just need some time to yourself. When you find yourself in this situation then you need to have an escape route in place, one that will make it easy for you to get away from the potentially volatile situation from which you are trying to escape. Perhaps you could always keep a deficit of some sort in place and then offer to go fill that void when the time is right. I like to do this with things that are readily available, especially since we don’t really need it, it’s just convenient for you to go get it.
orlando discount vacation packages

2. Sleep, the ultimate mediator – When you sense that tensions might be running a bit high, or perhaps you have some personalities clashing then it may be time for you to take a little nap. You will probably find that after your nap whatever it was that was bothering you will be a thing of the long past.

3. Subject Swappers – You should always be ready to switch subjects to something that they like. If you feel as if the conversation is going badly then try to get them to talk a bit about a hobby that they enjoy or perhaps something that is going on in their lives. This will generally help to take off the pressure.

By doing these few things you will be better able to successfully go through a family vacation unscathed. Most of all enjoy the time that you have with your family and try not to be overly concerned if things are not always going your way.

last minute discount vacation packages

 

Why Camping Makes the Ultimate Family Vacation
Are you and your family interested in taking a family vacation soon? If you are, have you already decided what you would like to do or where you would like to go?

The Three Best Luxury Resorts in Kauai
The three best luxury resort hotels in Kauai have great views of the ocean. Two are in Poipu, most recommended for upscale family travel. One is tops for a golf vacation.

Head to San Diego for the perfect family vacation
Head to San Diego for the perfect family vacation.  See SeaWorld, and see a lot of it. But include the San Diego Zoo and the beach for a perfect combination for a family vacation.

Carrentals
Discount Car Rentals

By Dakota Dog
Published: 10/10/2006
Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , | 1 Comment

Cheap Vacation Package Deals

January 19, 2009
[5] comments

Help Finding Cheap Vacation Package Deals

Discover the secrets to finding cheap vacation package deals that will save you money when you book your next holiday.

You must stay away from being lured in by various vacation travel agencies and their online deals if your hoping to find cheap vacation package deals. You must remain alert of travel scams and traps. Some fishy advertisers publicize "deals" that appear to be tremendously cheap. It seems that you just need to pay the up front costs. But this is seldom true. You need to read out the minute details before making any type of payments. Even though the trip is real, the lodgings for these ‘cheap’ deals are never the "magnificent" accommodations and you never get the type of travel promised.

So Beware!

Your holiday may turn out to be a nightmare!


inexpensive dude ranch vacations

Check out the airlines as well as hotels that are mentioned in the package. Verify all kinds of reservations. And if the tour operator is not willing to part with the names, ignore the deal.

The databases of complaints lodged by millions of customers are an eye opener for the misleading advertisements.

By law, the travel companies must list all the terms and conditions in their advertisements. But they always use ambiguous and unclear language. The next time you come across any misleading or vague language in a vacation deal advertisement, take time to read these conditions steps before you whip your credit card. These small prints will most probably contain all the information that the travel agency want to hide.

You must drive on safer side. Call up the concerned travel agency and inquire in detail about the package. You should always try to get the particulars written or at least get the reference number of your inquiry. This will serve as evidence if in case anything turns wrong.

You must also be aware of which expenses are covered the package and which are left out. Get a clear explanation of any kind of extra charges and the hidden costs.

Make sure that you get the name of the company representative, their contact details, the time of the call and your inquiry reference number.

There are travel companies that bring out certain special cheap vacation package deals that are several vacation travel agencies offer.. A low priced deal is not essentially a fiddle but a detailed study is required.

Be cautious! Examine the small print and get the details of things that sound misleading. If you smell something fishy, it is better to turn down the offer.
Find out about the most popular vacation choices that will help you find the perfect holiday for you and your family at vacation information. To discover how you can get a cheap skiing vacation then visit discount ski vacations.

By Chris M
Published: 9/8/2007

Myrtle Beach Travel Deals and Vacation Packages

Want a cheap vacation? Try a short cruise

Monthly Guide on Cheap Vacation Packages

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged | 5 Comments

Costa Rica All Inclusive Resorts

January 19, 2009
[6] comments

Costa Rica is often referred to as "Nature’s Paradise." Its stunning waterfalls, beautiful beaches, abundance of wildlife, and breathtaking surroundings make it a destination for vacationers, adventurers, and homemakers alike. Its inexpensive lifestyle and high standard of living are yet another attraction. Costa Rica in Central America is a small country located in the isthmus. Costa Rica is among the most exhilarating places to live and is considered a real estate hot spot. The country is surrounded by the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific Ocean on either side.

In many cases when tourists plan a vacation, they do not prefer to stay in hotels or inns because they are very expensive. Instead, people opt to stay in lodges, condos, and resorts that are comparatively cheaper. There are many resorts in Costa Rica that provide all-inclusive packages, which includes airfare, transportation to and from the airport, accommodation charges, all meals and drinks.

A few Costa Rica resorts boast all-inclusive packages, which include lavish accommodations and lodgings at discount rates and special offers. Such resorts offer countless in house facilities, prompt services, spas, recreational rooms, exotic cuisines, elite dining facilities and elaborate living arrangements

Many resorts offer all the facilities normally provided by the hotels at a comparatively cheaper tariff. Resorts offer rooms that have rich colors and designs. There are many all-inclusive resorts in cost Rica for people to choose from. Bookings for such resorts can also be done online.

Usually the choice for an all-inclusive resort is made after weighing factors such as mode of transport, places to stay, food and budget of the visitors. Similarly, all-inclusive packages differ from season to season. When visitors are planning to choose a resort in Costa Rica, many websites provide them with information on the facilities that are provided in all-inclusive packages. Costa Rica is a sure destination for a visitor who wishes to make his or her vacation a memorable event in their lives. The warmth of the people and the charm of these exotic locations enchants a visitor no end, and attract them to this part of the world again and again.

best kids vacations resorts

Rich experiences a bargain in Costa Rica

Posted in Destinations | Tagged | 6 Comments

Privacy Policy

January 18, 2009
[2] comments

If you require any more information or have any questions about our privacy policy, please feel free to contact us by email at info@discountfamilyvacations.net.

At www.discountfamilyvacations.net, the privacy of our visitors is of extreme importance to us. This privacy policy document outlines the types of personal information is received and collected by www.discountfamilyvacations.net and how it is used.

Log Files
Like many other Web sites, www.discountfamilyvacations.net makes use of log files. The information inside the log files includes internet protocol ( IP ) addresses, type of browser, Internet Service Provider ( ISP ), date/time stamp, referring/exit pages, and number of clicks to analyze trends, administer the site, track user’s movement around the site, and gather demographic information. IP addresses, and other such information are not linked to any information that is personally identifiable.

Cookies and Web Beacons
This site does use cookies to store information about visitors preferences, record user-specific information on which pages the user access or visit, customize Web page content based on visitors browser type or other information that the visitor sends via their browser.

DoubleClick DART Cookie
.:: Google, as a third party vendor, uses cookies to serve ads on this site.
.:: Google’s use of the DART cookie enables it to serve ads to users based on their visit to www.discountfamilyvacations.net and other sites on the Internet.
.:: Users may opt out of the use of the DART cookie by visiting the Google ad and content network privacy policy at the following URL – http://www.google.com/privacy_ads.html

Some of our advertising partners may use cookies and web beacons on our site. Our advertising partners include ….
Google Adsense
Commission Junction
Clickbank
Amazon

These third-party ad servers or ad networks use technology to the advertisements and links that appear on www.discountfamilyvacations.net send directly to your browsers. They automatically receive your IP address when this occurs. Other technologies ( such as cookies, JavaScript, or Web Beacons ) may also be used by the third-party ad networks to measure the effectiveness of their advertisements and / or to personalize the advertising content that you see.

www.discountfamilyvacations.net has no access to or control over these cookies that are used by third-party advertisers.

You should consult the respective privacy policies of these third-party ad servers for more detailed information on their practices as well as for instructions about how to opt-out of certain practices. www.discountfamilyvacations.net’s privacy policy does not apply to, and we cannot control the activities of, such other advertisers or web sites.

If you wish to disable cookies, you may do so through your individual browser options. More detailed information about cookie management with specific web browsers can be found at the browsers’ respective websites.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , | 2 Comments

Contact Us

January 18, 2009
[0] comments

If you have any questions regarding the content in this website, about the products that are mentioned, or just any questions at all don’t hesitate to contact me at the following address. I’d also love to hear any feedback on the site if you’ve found it helpful or have some ideas about how I can improve the site in some way.

Please contact us at info@discountfamilyvacations.net!

We will reply to all messages as soon as possible.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment