If you'd rather be dining on duck pastilla and sleeping on a feather bed overlooking the Serengeti rather than slurping cold cereal on your couch with a view of the TV, here are some ways to keep traveling, even in an economic slump.
Sleep like a local. For significant savings - and more square footage for your dollar - stay in a private home or apartment on your next trip. Our favorite sites for vacation rentals are Vrbo.com, offering a large database of private homes, apartments, condos, cabins, and villas around the world; Zonder.com, with a database of international rentals and real time booking; and Pickpackgo.com, for rental vacation homes across the US. Or browse the Area Archives for special places like Beachwood Canyon Retreat in LA.
Join a Club. A number of sites offer deals on boutique hotels. Design Hotels has over 170 properties on its site and promises to match the price of a hotel if you find it cheaper elsewhere within 24 hours. Join its Club (it’s free) and get 50% discount on new member hotels, as well as discounted rates. For $20 a year, Mr & Mrs Smith’s Membership Club gives you special discounts, access to your own travel concierge, and keeps you abreast of timely offers. And TabletPlus Members Only Program gives you special privileges at more than 300 participating hotels for an annual fee of US$195.
Look for packages. Many boutique hotels and travel outfitters are offering deals right now. If they don't slash their rates; many are throwing in extras like a free night or a spa credit.
Haggle. It's a buyer's market right now, so if you're faced with minimum stay requirements, strict cancellation fees, or other unpleasant policies, start bargaining.
