10 great places to get global vacation values
— -- Stretch your travel dollars around the globe, and cash in on these vacation values abroad during January, Financial Wellness Month. For USA TODAY, Kathy Baruffi talks with Anne Banas of Smartertravel.com, a resource for deals and destination information, who shares tips on where to get more for your money.
Bermuda"Bermuda is celebrating its 400th anniversary with a host of special events as well as value-focused vacation packages," Banas says. Nearly a dozen hotels, including two Fairmont hotels, are participating in a special "Compliments of Bermuda" deal. Each booking will receive a 400th Anniversary Passport, good for special savings, while visiting the island known for pink sand beaches, great golfing, and sunrise from the cliffs at Horseshoe Bay. Bermudatourism.com
Riviera NayaritMexico "Designated as a new tourism destination in 2007, Riviera Nayarit (accessible from Puerto Vallarta) has been investing in hotels and infrastructure to attract visitors," Banas says. "You can find rates at all price levels, even under $100 per night in the more laid-back villages," such as the fishing town of San Pedro. More developed Nuevo Vallarta has surfing, snorkeling and whale-watching along the white sand beaches. Rivieranayarit.com
County ClareIreland "Due to better exchange rates and a drop in airfares, Ireland is a great destination for value," Banas says. "Airfares are cheaper than at this same time last year." Doolin and other scenic regions outside of the major cities, where farmhouse B&Bs are plentiful, offer good deals. Visit the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren, a stunning limestone landscape.County-clare.com
LimaPeru "Tourism in Lima is growing rapidly, and the government is adding major funding for development," Banas says. "You can expect to find new hotels and affordable rates on ground costs," such as fixed-price $3 menus. Visit colonial houses and churches in Lima's historic downtown, then pause for a Suspiro de Limeña, a local meringue-covered dessert. Peru.info
ReykjavikIceland "Because Iceland's currency has lost value in recent months, the country has become an affordable alternative to mainland Europe," Banas says. "Plus, Iceland has become increasingly popular with adventure enthusiasts." Stay in Reykjavik and take the Golden Circle Tour, an all-day bus trip that includes glaciers, hot springs, historic sites and the Gullfoss Waterfall. Goiceland.org
Puerto Rico"Puerto Rico has always been one of the most affordable Caribbean islands, but airfare competition and hotel promotions are making it an even better deal," Banas says. "Plus, U.S. travelers won't need a passport, so it's one of the most convenient tropical escapes." You can enjoy authentic Latin culture while staying at small, family-run inns, called "paradores," for about $100 a night. Gotopuertorico.com
Vietnam"Vietnam is a very affordable destination," Banas says. "Decent hotels can still be found for less than $50 a night." Visit Halong Bay, known locally as the eighth wonder of the world because of its thousands of limestone islands, and take an overnight boat ride. Note the floating markets, which are platforms with boats tied around them, in the bay. Vietnamtourism.com
VilniusLithuania "This year, Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, will be a European 'Capital of Culture,' hosting a series of 900 art and cultural events," Banas says. "Because Lithuania doesn't use the euro as its currency, it can be much more affordable than countries in Western Europe." Go sightseeing in Old Town, known for its splendid European architecture, then sample a Lithuanian beer with local cheese. Lietuva.lt/en
United Kingdom "Because the pound has lost value against the dollar, now is a great time to visit the U.K.," Banas says. "In particular, Scotland will have 'Homecoming Scotland' celebrations throughout the year in honor of the 250th anniversary of their national poet, Robert Burns. Wales is a hidden gem where you can also get good value." Visitbritain.us
CartagenaColombia "The government has been adding better security and creating tourism programs in Colombia over the past five years," Banas says. "Now intrepid travelers can come and experience colonial cities, a vibrant culture and beaches at great values." The beach town of Cartagena has always been a favorite destination for Colombians, where bed-and-breakfasts can run under $85 a night. Cartagenainfo.com