Escapes Under $500: Unbelievable Deals to Hawaii and Bermuda

Jan. 23, 2009 — -- Hawaii and Bermuda for under $500? Even I can't believe it.

I've been writing Escapes Under $500 for nearly five years and have yet to mention Hawaii. It seems that perfect Aloha deal was always the one that got away. Not this time. Hawaii is more affordable than it's been in years, and you can visit for less than $500, particularly if you're from the West Coast. East Coasters won't make it to Hawaii for that cheap, but I have something as special in mind for you, too. In 2009, Bermuda will be celebrating its 400th anniversary, and the combo of great savings and special events make it one of the best island vacation opportunities for the New Year.

So whether you live on the West Coast or the East Coast, tropical paradise is still in reach. And even if you live somewhere in between, you might still be able to afford a trip to one of these islands, despite the struggling economy.

Hawaii for the West Coast

Hawaii is hurting right now, primarily due to two bankrupt airlines earlier this year, a bad economy, and a perception that the state is still really expensive even though travel providers have slashed prices. According to John Monahan, President and CEO of Hawaii Visitors & Convention Bureau, "These discounts and other offers have continued as the global economic crisis worsened and began to suppress travel this fall. Recently, airfares have been dropping, making Hawaii an even better value especially when purchasing a package that includes air, hotel, car rental and activities together." In fact, package prices are cheaper in 2008 than they were in 2007. And believe it or not, some fit within a $500 budget.

For example, Pleasant Holidays is offering three-night, air-and-hotel vacation packages to Oahu from $389. When I checked (using the test dates of January 27 to 30), trips departing nonstop from Los Angeles and staying at the Aqua Continental in Waikiki came to $889 for two including taxes, or $444.50 per person. If you think that's impressive, couples departing from San Francisco pay only $659, or $329.50 per person, beating the list price (yes, I triple checked the math on that one!).