Discover Your Perfect Vacation Destination
Planning your next vacation? With countless destinations to choose from, the main questions are: What is your budget? What activities do you and your family enjoy? Are you planning to travel domestically or internationally?
Travelers often have numerous suggestions, but here are some top-rated places that cater to every taste and budget. These overseas suggestions are worth a visit, no matter the exchange rate.
1. Singapore
Singapore is an incredible island-country and city offering some of the world's best food at affordable prices. Accommodations range from budget-friendly to five-star hotels, all at reasonable rates. Book a package deal online to save even more.
There's so much to do in Singapore that you won't be spending much time in your room. The public transportation system is superb, making it easy to get anywhere you need to go. Purchase a travel pass upon arrival at Changi Airport and head out for an adventure.
Tourist buses, known as "ducks," will take you to every attraction in the city center and even onto the river. Nearly everyone speaks English, and the British influence remains strong. Don’t miss the chocolate buffet at the Fullerton Hotel on Saturdays or the original Singapore Sling at the world-famous Raffles bar. Even the height of luxury is affordable in this paradise.
2. New Zealand
New Zealand offers great deals, especially during the "off season" in the Northern Hemisphere's spring and fall. Air New Zealand often provides multi-airfare passes, allowing you to take up to six internal flights for just a bit more than the international ticket.
Most travelers fly into Auckland on the North Island and branch out from there. For a tropical beach holiday, head north to the beautiful Bay of Islands. For a spa retreat, visit Rotorua in the middle of the island.
Fans of "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" will love Wellington on the North Island, where you can tour many filming locations. Skiing enthusiasts should head to Queenstown on the South Island to ski the Remarkables, featured in the films.
Backpackers will appreciate the affordable hostels, with Microtels costing around 6 USD per night. The food and local wine are fantastic.
3. Ireland
Ireland is full of fun, food, and fabulous attractions. A flight to Shannon Airport is only about five hours from the east coast of the US.
Ireland boasts castles, unspoiled nature, and seafood. Public transportation is easy and cheap, everyone speaks English, and locals are very friendly to North Americans. Great bed and breakfasts abound, with meals costing around $13 and accommodations around $35 per night outside Dublin.
Dublin caters to tourists and may not have the authentic Irish feel of Cork or Galway, but it offers numerous attractions, including Trinity College and two cathedrals. The youth hostels near Christ Church Cathedral are clean and modern, with prices ranging from $20 to $100 per night, depending on the season and room size.
4. Portland, Oregon
Portland is a family-friendly city with plenty to do and excellent public transport. It also serves as the gateway to scenic locations like Mt. Hood, where you can ski year-round. The city's variety of restaurants rivals New York City, but at a fraction of the cost. Be sure to visit Powell’s, the largest bookstore in the world.
5. Nashville
Nashville is affordable, family-friendly, and packed with things to see and do. It offers better value than Disneyland/world, with seven theme parks within driving distance and a variety of attractions from music to museums, all at reasonable prices.
Choosing your next vacation spot can be overwhelming, but with these suggestions, you're sure to find a destination that suits your needs and budget. Happy travels!
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