News / Business
2008 Travel Survival Tips for Vacation Renters and Travelers
Beat the Crowds, Find Vacation Deals and Save
Ditch the hotel. Hotels rates are predicted to increase by 6% in 2008. Add that hike to the 5% price increase in 2007 and you are looking at paying as much as 11% more for a hotel room in 2008. But that is not where it ends. Hotels are adding hidden costs and surcharges at alarming rates. You can expect to see many more miscellaneous charges such as energy surcharges, convenience fees for using a credit card or making a reservation online.
Try vacation rentals. MSNBC’s columnist Christpher Elliot recommends trying alternative lodging such as vacation rentals, condos, destination villas and home exchange clubs. The value in these accommodations begins with the extra living space, multiple bedrooms, local flavor and special amenities. While you may pay a departure cleaning fee and security deposit, guests will also enjoy full kitchens, spas, lanai’s/patios and private or shared pools, gas grills and clubhouses. Vacation rental rates will be very competitve in 2008 thanks to the mortgage crisis causing vacation rental homeowners to discount rates and rent more weeks during the year. Guests staying in a vacation rental home can avoid hidden hotel surcharges and taxes without giving up comfort, view or proximity to major attractions.
Look for the smaller, more competitively priced car rental companies. National car rental companies are adding in more hidden fees, fines, mandatory insurance, or tricky ways to get you to upgrade. Local and regional car rental companies often offer better deals. Editor Tori Milan rented an Suzuki SUV from Advantage Rent a Car at the Denver Airport and spent only $22/day including taxes and fees, compared to the average of $65/daywith one of the national brands.
Avoid major holidays. Traveling during peak times or major holidays is not going to be hassle free. Given the recent state of affairs on the airport runways and on the major highways across America in 2007, it is fair to say that 2008 will be the same or worse. Leave early, stay a day longer, book direct flights and always leave a little extra time for the unexpected.
About DestinationVillas.com
Destination Villas was founded by vacation rental homeowners dedicated to providing tools that help vacation rental homeowners manage and maintain profitable properties. Users of the DestinationVillas.com website can find vacation rental homes, villas, cabins, or cottages and save up to 70% when you rent by owner. Destination Villas offers a comprehensive listing of vacation villas and homes worldwide, plus helpful tools such as a Last-Minute Deals and destination guides.
