Family Travel Deals to Florida

Snagging a travel deal to Florida for the entire family is like winning the jackpot in these challenging economic times. Whether you are planning a multi-generational family trip to Florida's array of exciting theme parks, or you are looking to explore the Sunshine State's diverse natural wonders, you don't want to go broke in the process. Fortunately, there are a number of ways you can save on family escapes to the "Sunshine State."

Contrary to popular belief, when times are tough, it is relatively easy to find travel deals. This is especially true for top vacation destinations, such as Florida, which relies heavily on tourism to generate income. Lodging, car rental and attractions are desperate to keep business flowing when the economy takes a nose dive, so to entice potential guests to visit, they often offer deep discounts. This equates to substantial savings for families.

If you have always dreamed up soaking up the sun and fun in Florida, then take advantage of the following tips that can yield super savings for the entire clan:

Travel aggregate sites, such as Expedia.com and Orbitz.com, are a hot bed for family travel deals to Florida. The popular web-based companies offer major discounts for travelers looking to bundle airfare, hotel and car rental. Rather than paying individually for amenities, the sites allow you to pay one price for multiple services, typically at drastically reduced prices. This means that a family can score plane tickets to Florida, plus lodging and ground transportation for up to 75 percent off rack rates, depending on the dates of travel and length of stay.

Another way to save on travel to Florida is to look for special offers. Florida is teeming with family-friendly lodgings and attractions which rely on visitors to stay in business. To keep guest numbers up, many resorts in Sunshine State feature money-saving offer specials to clans, such as:

Spend three nights, get the fourth free Kids stay free Kids eat free Get $100 off a three-night stay Free tickets to theme parks with two-night stay Free admission to local tourist attractions with advance reservation

Just remember to read the fine print before committing to a travel deal. While Florida hotels and attractions are known for teaming up to offer outstanding deals in order to tempt clans to travel to the Sunshine State, it pays to be vigilant when reviewing special promotions.

When you think of family travel to Florida, Disney World immediately pops into the minds of millions of clans from around the globe. Fortunately, the tourist hot spot is well-versed at attracting budget-conscious visitors. The mega-popular theme park typically runs money-saving deals on a seasonal basis. For example, during the summer of 2011, Disney if offering a "Save on Summer Stays" program, which allows guests to save up to 30 percent at select Disney Deluxe and Disney Deluxe Villa Resort Hotels.

To take advantage of the deal, you need to book at stay before May 28, 2011 for travel between June 15 and August 13, 2011. In addition, you can also save 25 percent at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, Disney's Wilderness Lodge and Disney's Polynesian Resort for stays from June 15 to August 13, 2011. What's more, Disney offers its guests even more ways to pad their wallets if they stay on site at an official Disney property. Benefits include free transportation from the airport, complimentary resort transportation, extended access to the park and money-saving dining plans.

A good place to start looking for family travel deals to Florida is the Internet. The World Wide Web is chock-full of sites that cater to clans looking to escape to Florida's sun, sand and surf. Look for bargains galore at:

In addition, when inquiring about travel deals to Florida, ask about other ways to save once you arrive in the Sunshine State. For example, in Orlando, the I-Ride Trolley will shuttle you and your clan to and from major attractions for $1.25 (as of April 2011) or less if you plan to ride regularly during your Florida visit. Finally, query locals, including taxi drivers or hotel staff about the cheap places to eat or tour while you are on their turf. A little good advice can go a long way when you are traveling on the cheap.

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Family Spring Break Vacations

Don't let your family spring break vacations be spoiled by a bunch of rowdy, half-naked college coeds. There are plenty of fun and wholesome travel destinations available for clans looking to relax on seasonal getaways.

Spring break is the ideal time to escape on a multi-generational vacation. Whether it's for a couple days or an entire week, the post-winter break is just what most clans need to recharge their batteries and bond with members of their inner circle. Fortunately, there is a host of popular family spring break vacation options.

If you're worried about sharing the Mexican sun, sand and surf with a bunch of debaucherous 20-somethings, then stay away from Cancun, which has gained the title of "College Spring Break Headquarters" in the last decade. Rather, pack up the clan and head to the family-friendly area of Mexico known as the Riviera Maya. The beaches there are pristine, and the resorts cater to young children and their parents. Adding to the allure is the fact that most resorts are all-inclusive, which is perfect for families on a budget. In addition, Riviera Maya has a variety of kid-friendly amenities, including:

Giant water parks Snorkeling along the largest coral reef in the Western Hemisphere Dolphin encounters ATV jungle tours Zip line adventures

If you prefer to stay closer to home while your kids take a break from the books, then consider visiting sunny California. Along with the Golden State's ubiquitous array of exciting theme parks, families can partake in an array of cultural activities. San Diego offers a variety of fun and educational spring break escapes, from Balboa Park and Sea World to the world-renown San Diego Zoo. In addition, the city boasts 70 miles of sand and surf, which gives you plenty of space to relax and build sandcastles after you take in the area's attractions.

Bermuda is a picturesque island located roughly 650 miles east of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina. Known for its luxurious pink sand beaches, the island offers families a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Its proximity to the East Coast makes it ideal for last-minute spring break jaunts. What's more, because of its reputation for laid-back living, most college coeds looking to party hardy bypass Bermuda and opt for a more raucous place to get drunk. That's great news for clans with young children, who are left to enjoy the island in peace.

Bermuda goes all out to cater to multi-generations. Along with its powder soft beaches, the island boasts dozens of world-class golf courses, super shopping, and amazing dining options. Bermuda also offers a wide range of kid-friendly activities, from horseback adventures and cave exploring to marine animal encounters and kayaking.

The city that never sleeps is an outstanding spring break travel destination for families with varying tastes. The Big Apple has something for everyone and you will never have to worry about your kids complaining about being bored. Some must-visit, New York City attractions include:

Empire State Building Statue of Liberty Rockefeller Plaza Central Park FAO Schwartz Times Square Staten Island Ferry

The city also provides a host of educational attractions for families, including the American Museum of Natural History, Museum of Modern Art and the Met. Depending on when you visit, it's a good idea to check out fun seasonal events, such as Macy's Flower Show and the city's popular Easter Day Parade, which travels from 47th Street to 57th Street along 5th Avenue.

You don't have to travel far or spend a bundle to create magical vacation memories for your children. If you are tight on funds, consider taking a staycation and visiting a local water park, zoo or children's museum. After all, the goal of spring break vacation is to have fun with the people you are with regardless of where you travel.

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St. Petersburg, Florida Travel Guide

St. Petersburg, Florida, is a dream getaway for sun worshippers or those looking for a subdued southern escape. Located at the base of the Tampa Bay peninsula, St. Petersburg is surrounded by water on three sides. The picture-perfect locale means you are never far from the lull of crashing waves or stunning, panoramic ocean views. Most travelers flock to St. Petersburg to enjoy the area’s spectacular white, sandy beaches. While the sun, sand and surf are intoxicating, the city offers so much more.

Florida is one of the most family-friendly travel destinations on the planet. If you are planning to visit St. Petersburg with multiple generations, and are interested in activities that will keep the entire clan happy as clams, consider these attractions:

Great Explorations Children’s Museum: Take a break from the beach to visit this mecca for hands-on exploration. Kids of all ages will enjoy learning about the wonderful world of touch from the museum’s high-tech and traditional exhibits. Kids are given the freedom to explore music and science rooms, or they can learn how to design cars and sail boats.Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary: This one-of-kind public avian hospital gives visitors a bird’s eye view of the work it takes to mend injured wildlife. The sanctuary is staffed by professionals and knowledgeable volunteers who care for and rehabilitate a variety of birds from herons and raptors to egrets and pelicans, and you get a front-row seat to see their efforts.Pier Aquarium: St. Petersburg's legendary Pier Aquarium boasts an ocean’s worth of amazing watery exhibits. Visitors learn about different marine creatures and their environments. In addition, the educational facility allows guests to partake in a number of interactive exhibits, including the ultra-popular touch tanks.

Don’t travel all the way to St. Petersburg without sampling the area’s sumptuous regional cuisine. Dive into delicious dishes at these eclectic eateries:

Guppy’s: No trip to Florida is complete without dining on fresh seafood. Locals and visitors love the underwater eats at Guppy’s. The outdoor dining area offers incredible views of St. Petersburg’s sensational sunsets and mouth-watering epicurean delights such as blue crab tacos, Asian tuna filets and potato-crusted salmon.Habana Cafe: For adventurous palates, Habana Cafe offers a taste of the old country. Dine on authentic Cuban fare, including roast pork with white rice, black beans and arroz con pollo. The food is as vibrant as the setting, which is decked out in colorful murals and live Latin music.Six Tables: If you are celebrating a special occasion or simply have money to burn, head to Six Tables. The upscale restaurant pampers guests with an exceptional multi-course prix fixe menu, which includes appetizers, champagne, soup, salad, sorbet, an entree, cheese and fruit, and a decadent dessert.

Shopping in St. Petersburg is a dream for big spenders and frugalistas alike. The city offers an eclectic mix of traditional upscale department stores, trendy boutiques and antique shops. If you are looking for unique gifts and trinkets, don’t miss these shopping centers:

The Pier: This local landmark is a sight to see. The five-story complex juts over the water of Tampa Bay and features an inverted glass pyramid. Inside you can shop ‘till you drop at popular chain stores and local boutiques. The shopping venue also boasts dozens of restaurants, an aquarium and boat rentals.BayWalk: This open-air shopping plaza caters to high-end shoppers. BayWalk is home to a collection of luxury stores, movie theater and upscale eateries.Central Avenue Antiques District: Home to Florida’s largest antique mall, this retro-style stretch of stores is a haven for treasure hunters. In addition to antiques, you can find distinctive jewelry, handcrafted accessories and stunning artwork.

Whether you are on a romantic holiday or in town for a reunion with your high school pals, St. Petersburg’s nightlife has something for everyone. Top picks include:

Cha Cha Coconuts: This festive club comes to life at night with a host of tropical-themed activities. Live entertainment, vibrant drinks and pub grub make the club a must-visit for travelers looking to soak up the casual Florida vibe.A Taste for Wine: When you tire of sipping tropical libations on the beach head to A Taste of Wine for a more sophisticated escape. This top-rated wine bar is a popular nightlife outing for those with upscale tastes. In addition to the excellent wine selections and outstanding microbrews, the bar offers live music, amazing appetizers and a hip outdoor balcony.New York, New York: This mega-popular club epitomizes St. Petersburg's nightlife scene. New York, New York is the place to see and be seen in the city. The bar and dance floor are always packed with customers who cram in to listen to local bands bust out hit after hit. Fortunately, the ambience more than makes up for the long lines.

With so much to see and do in St. Petersburg, it’s a good idea to research your options before making the trip. An excellent?guide to city life can be found on the St. Petersburg/Clearwater Area Convention & Visitors Bureau website.

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Spring Break Vacation Deals

Finding super spring break vacation deals is one of the best ways to cure the winter blues. Finding a way to get some much needed sunshine in the middle of winter is easier than you might think!

By March, most people are tiring of Old Man Winter's bitter chill and are looking to escape to warmer climates. Spring break is one of the best times to jet off to sunny destinations to recharge your batteries. Whether you are a college coed, who wants to party your break away, or you're simply looking to take the kids on a quick getaway to the sand and surf, the following popular spring break destinations are sure to please:

Panama City Beach has held on to the title of "No.1 Domestic Spring Break Destination" since the 1990s. Not only does the area offer one of the most beautiful beaches in the country, it also boasts a number of family-friendly attractions, including museums and animal encounter programs. In addition, to the silky sand and cobalt blue waters, Florida is also home to Walt Disney World and a host of other popular theme parks, which attract kids of all ages.

Cancun is the premier spring break vacation destination in the Gulf of Mexico. Known for its turquoise waters, powder soft beaches, and sun-drenched blue skies, Cancun is a thrill seeker's dream vacation destination. The sunny locale offers a variety of water sports, jungle tours, catamaran rides, and cliff diving opportunities. Meanwhile, those looking for a more serene setting can explore Cabo San Lucas, which boasts a slew of upscale resorts and miles of luxurious beaches.

The Aloha State's diverse topography offers something for every traveler despite age and budget. From surfing to scuba diving, hiking, biking or simply relaxing on the beach with a tropical libation, Hawaii provides the perfect setting for a variety of popular spring break activities. What's more, since it is part of the United States you don't have to worry about passports or tightened foreign security when traveling to paradise.

Whether you are traveling with multiple generations or you are looking to spend a long weekend by yourself, California offers plenty of affordable spring break options. In addition to the family-friendly theme parks, including Disneyland, Legoland and Universal Studios, California is home to miles of pristine beaches, dozens of top-notch ski resorts and some of the most popular tourist attractions in the world, such as the San Diego Zoo and Yosemite National Park.

Fortunately, spring breakers on a budget can find a number of money-saving deals to the aforementioned destinations, including:

Group deals: If you are planning to travel with six or more people, then look into group deals. A number of travel companies offer discounts to large groups if they book together. Savings range between 10 to upwards of 25 percent of rack rates. All-inclusive: Another great way to save on a spring break vacation is to visit an all-inclusive resort, such as Sandals or Couples. One price covers hotel lodging, meals, beverages, activities, tips, and in some cases, air and ground transportation. Package deals: These deals bundle flight, hotel and rental car fees, so you are paying reduced rates for all aspects of your spring break getaway. You can look to save up to 60 percent off on air travel and hotel accommodations with package deals than if you were to pay separately for each entity.

Spring break vacation deals can be found all over the Internet, including these top travel websites:

In addition, you can often snag great spring break deals by contacting reputable travel agents. A good travel agent will discuss your vacation needs and wants and help design a getaway that will come in under budget, but won't skimp on fabulous features.

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Affordable Family Vacations in Hawaii

Affordable family vacations in Hawaii are possible with a little research and planning.

Contrary to popular belief, it is not hard to keep an entire family entertained in Hawaii without breaking the bank. The island paradise boasts a number of ways to save while vacationing with multiple generations. From lodging to food, entertainment to souvenirs, the following tips will help make your dream of taking an affordable family vacation in Hawaii, a reality:

The "Aloha State" is home to a bevy of beautiful resorts. However, these sprawling properties, which boast everything, from dolphin swimming adventures to ocean-front multi-room suites with private butlers, don't come cheap. If you are toting the entire family to Hawaii, then consider staying at a budget hotel or condo with an attached kitchenette. Having a small refrigerator, microwave, and cooktop at your disposable will help save big bucks by allowing you to prepare meals in your room. What's more, most families visiting Hawaii rarely spend much time in their hotel rooms when there's so much to see and do around the island.

Eating out can really add up when you are vacationing in Hawaii. If you have a large family, skip the traditional sit-down restaurants and opt to dine at the state's popular "lunch wagons." These food trucks pepper the streets and beaches of Hawaii with affordable, yet delectable, menu items. You will be shocked by how large the serving portions are. A typical combo plate sells for five dollars and includes a number of island favorites, including Hawaiian Kalua Pork and Korean Short Ribs on a bed of fresh island cabbage, plus two scoops of rice, and a scoop of macaroni/potato salad. The massive meal will leave you and your wallet full.

Forget about shopping at local souvenir shops for trinkets to bring home from your family vacation to Hawaii. Some of the best deals on souvenirs can be found at area farmers' markets. In addition to selling fresh pineapple, papayas and other local fruit, which vendors will box up for you to ship home, the markets are filled with handcrafted Hawaiian mementos that appeal to everyone in the family, from authentic hula skirts to shell necklaces and hand carved toys made from local woods. Also, forget about purchasing a flower lei from the airport to take back home. Rather, by buying one at a local farmers' market you are guaranteed fresh flowers at drastically reduced prices.

Hawaii boasts some of the most stunning beaches in the world, and most of them don't cost a dime to visit. Families can spend the entire day at Hawaii's beaches for free while soaking up the sun, enjoying powder-soft sand, island breezes and miles of unspoiled views of the Pacific Ocean. In addition to the gorgeous beaches, the state also offers a number of other attractions free of charge, including the Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo located on the Big Island of Hawaii. The 12-acre zoo is home to more than 80 animal species, including the endangered Nene bird and white Bengal Tiger.

For clans with active-duty or retired military members, scoring affordable family vacations in Hawaii is a breeze. The 50th state has one of the most generous military discount programs in the world, which makes visiting the tropical paradise down right cheap for veterans. From hotels to rental cars, popular tourist attractions to restaurants, the savings for military personnel are huge. For example, Hawaii's Hale Koa Hotel, located near famed Waikiki Beach, operates for the exclusive use of retired and current members of the U.S. Armed Forces, Reserves, and National Guard. Rooms there cost 50 percent less than ones at comparable properties throughout the state. Adding to the savings is the fact that guests at the Hale Koa are exempt from paying Hawaii sales tax on rooms.

In Hawaii "ohana" means family, and that's exactly how you are treated when you visit the Pacific paradise. Hawaii's Aloha spirit is palpable in its warm and friendly people and litany of family-friendly vacation options.

If you are looking to escape to a safe vacation destination with an exotic feel, then check out the following reputable websites, which offer discount vacation packages to Hawaii for frugal families:

Another way to save is to make friends with a local travel agent who can contact you when special deals to Hawaii become available.

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Day Trips from Knoxville, Tennessee

The third largest city in Tennessee, the Knoxville area is rich with things to do. Situated near the Appalachian Mountain system, outdoor enthusiasts flock to this southern city year-round. If you're staying in the Knoxville area, there are several day trips that are sure to delight.

Knoxville is one of the largest cities in the Appalachia region. Located just 20 minutes for the Great Smoky Mountain range, as well as bordering on three major rivers, those who want to get in touch with the natural side of things will not lack for something to do.

The Great Smoky Mountain National Park is within an hour of Knoxville. The park is open year round; however, some campgrounds, trials and roads are closed during the winter, so be sure to check before heading out to the great outdoors. Entrance to the park is free, but if you are doing more than picnicking or hiking, there are fees. There is no shortage of oudoor sports such has hiking, fishing, camping and horse back riding. In addition, the park boasts one of the best collections of log buildings in the United States. There are over 90 structures to visit. You can also pick up a self-guided tour to find out more about this slice of America's past. In addition,

Outside Knoxville runs the Ocoee River, where adventure seekers can opt to take a day trip down its whitewater expanse. The river provides Class III and IV whitewater rafting for those seeking a thrill or two. However, don't go it alone. Use a whitewater rafting guide such as Outdoor Adventure Rafting. They offer guided raft and tube day trips with experienced guides to help you navigate the river. Prices vary according to the length of the trip. Kayakers can also opt to try their hand at the river's whitewaters.

Almost an hour from Knoxville, you'll find the family-friendly town of Gatlinburg. For many, this mountain resort town is the destination for visiting the Smoky Mountains. However, in addition to offering beautiful views, Gatlinburg boasts a host of interesting tourist attractions. There is something for everyone in this not-so-quiet resort town and is definitely worth a trek from Knoxville if you have time.

Those who love the bizarre and fascinating will want to visit the world famous Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum. While the museum itself has 12 galleries and over 500 artifacts to peruse, it's the cluster of buildings that your family might want to explore. In addition to the museum, you can also:

Explore two different mini-golf courses Visit the World Guiness Records Museum Take a ride at Ripley's Moving Theatre Get spooked on the haunted adventure Visit the aquarium

Save money by buying a combo ticket online. You can get a combo ticket for the museum and as many attractions as you'd like to see.

You may have never heard of Pigeon Forge before, but rest assured this town is busting at the seams with quirky, but family-friendly attractions as well as popular destinations that outdoor enthusiasts will love. Rent an ATV, go whitewater rafting or check out some of the locally unique attractions that bring families back to Pigeon Forge.

If you're wanting a theme park experience with a bit of southern charm, try Dollywood. The Dollywood Theme Park boasts rollercoasters, great entertainment and shows, and kiddie rides. Tickets for the day will run you around $60 for adults and $50 for children. The season passes are priced considerably lower, and are well worth it if you think you can make it back in one season.

If nautical history is your thing, you aren't going to want to miss the Titanic Museum in Pigeon Forge. The museum is a living history museum, in that it boasts costumed interpreters that help bring the story of the Titanic to life. Tickets will cost around $23 for adults and $12 for children. However, if you make your reservations in advance (which is highly recommended as they tend to sell out very quickly), then you can buy a family pass for $60 which will cover two adults and two children.

Zorb is literally not for the faint of heart. In fact, you need to sign a consent form and general liability waiver to do it. However, if adventure sports if your thing, Zorb Smokey Mountains might be what you're looking for. At Smokey Moutnain Zorb, you can roll down a hill in a giant inflatable ball with your buddies or alone. Your purhcase tickets per ride, and some rides require special types of clothing. The minimum age is 8 and the maximum weight is 220.

Cades Cove is an isolated valley at the base of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is the most frequented area of the national park due to not only the beautiful scenery, but also to the historical significance of Cades Cove to the area. From Civil War monuments to reminders of a village that once was, Cades Cove is a favorite hiking destination.

For many families, Knoxville is the perfect combination of pristine natural wonders, and great family fun. No matter what time of year you go, you'll never run out of stuff to do. To keep up to day on special hotel offers, events and local attractions, make sure to sign up for the free visitors and tourists guide.

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Planning a Trip to Hawaii

Planning a trip to Hawaii well in advance of your departure can help you save time and money. Careful preparation for a vacation to paradise also allows you to soak up the sun, sand and surf without sacrificing your sanity should unexpected situations arise.

For many travelers, a Hawaiian vacation is a once in a lifetime experience. Making the most of the opportunity requires patience and planning. Fortunately, there are a number of tips designed to help you savor your time in the "Aloha State":

Hawaii sees the highest number of visitors from November through February. These months attract millions of snowbirds and holiday travelers. In addition, the winter months are also when whale watching season starts and big-name events like the Honolulu Marathon and the Triple Crown of Surfing take place. You'll find the best bargains on airfare, hotel accommodations and car rentals from mid-April to mid-June and from September to mid-December. The exception is the last week in April to mid-May, which is Japan's "Golden Week." The Japanese holiday brings a flood of visitors to the 50th State and causes airfare and hotel prices to skyrocket. Also, keep in mid that Hawaii public schools operate on a year-round calendar, which means if you are looking for empty beaches, don't plan to take your Hawaiian holiday during the students' extended breaks in March, July, October and December.

The state of Hawaii consists of eight primary islands: Niihau, Kahoolawe, Lanai, Molokai, Kauai, Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island of Hawaii. However, it's the latter four that attract the most visitors given their size and infrastructure. If you are looking for world-class, shopping, restaurants and hotels, in addition to a bustling nightlife and a big city feel, then head to the island of Oahu, which is home to busy Honolulu and world-famous Waikiki Beach. Maui, Kauai and the Big Island are better suited for travelers looking to explore Hawaii's natural gems, such as active volcanoes, lush rainforests, stunning sunsets, seaside cliffs, and pink, black and white sand beaches.

In regards to finding the right hotel, consider your budget and plans. If you intend to spend your days tanning and swimming, then look for waterfront hotels to help cut down on travel time to the beach. Likewise, if you are traveling with children, plan to stay at a family-friendly resort that features a range of activities from dolphin experiences to snorkeling and horseback riding.

Planning a trip to Hawaii without going broke is possible; however, it requires research and help from a variety of sources. Both the Internet and travel agents can provide useful information on Hawaii travel packages. These vacation budget savers combine airfare, hotel accommodations, car rental and meals in one convenient price. Hawaii fly-and-drive packages are also extremely popular for visitors looking to travel to more than one island during their trip to the Pacific's string of pearls. By booking air and car together through one of Hawaii's major carriers, you can save a substantial amount of money.

Another way to save during your Hawaiian vacation is to look for all applicable discounts. For example, if you're a senior citizen, student, or active member of the military, be sure to bring proper identification with you. Hundreds of businesses around the islands offer money-saving discounts to the aforementioned groups, as well as those with AAA memberships or corporate or government affiliations.

You don't need to speak Hawaiian in order to make the most of your trip to the land of Aloha. However, it doesn't hurt to embrace the melodious language, as the natives use certain words quite frequently throughout the islands. Knowing the following Hawaiian words will serve you well during your trip to paradise:

Aloha: A warm expression with multiple definitions. Aloha means "hello," "goodbye," and "love." Expect to hear it while frequently while boarding and disembarking from various forms of public transportation. Mahalo: An expression of thanks. It is frequently used by store clerks and employees at various local attractions. Makai: Means towards the sea. Mauka: Heading towards the mountains or inland. Lanai: Porch, balcony or veranda. When you check into a hotel, you may be asked if you prefer a room with or without a lanai.

Maximize your Hawaii vacation by planning a trip that includes a healthy balance of sightseeing and relaxation. If your vacation is very limited, then it's a good idea to research the activities and attractions that are at the top of your to-do list. Get the driving directions and inquire about parking. Unexpected parking fees can really throw a wrench into your travel budget. Finally, if you don't have the time to do extensive research on your own, consider hooking up with a booking agency which can help you find the best deals in the islands. Just remember to inquire about fees. Some agencies charge a flat fee while others offer their services for free if you stay at a property they are affiliated with.

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