Destinations:
Top 2009 Budget Destinations
by John Hawks
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- Washington, D.C.: After the inaugural crowds depart America's capital later this month, this city will continue offering tremendous value for visitors - with many of its most popular attractions (from the national monuments [Jefferson, Lincoln, and Washington] to the various museums in the Smithsonian network) open to the public free of charge or for very nominal fees. Also, you can easily find lodging in the greater D.C. area at affordable rates throughout the year, and it's easy for travelers to get around cheaply using the city's well-developed public transit systems. (www.washington.org)
- Waiheke Island, New Zealand: Your clients who're seeking the quintessential Down Under getaway (and who don't want to hit a different city every day) will appreciate this rustic destination that sits a half-hour ferry ride from Auckland. (www.waiheke.co.nz)
- Lassen Volcanic National Park, Calif.: Frommers recommends this park (about a three-hour drive north of Sacramento) for its affordable lodging options and the wide range of natural sights (from heat vents to hot springs) that will keep families happy. (www.nps.gov/lavo)
- Istanbul: More operators are offering varied itineraries to this city in Turkey for 2009, with a greater focus on its arts and culinary scenes (in addition to the usual historical attractions). (www.tourismturkey.org)
- Civil Rights Trail in Alabama (Selma to Montgomery): Another great family option, this route will take you on a journey through the U.S. civil rights struggle, with numerous museums and historic sites marked along the way. (www.nps.gov/semo)
- Cartagena, Colombia: This city is perhaps the most surprising Frommers pick. Though it boasts many plusses such as uncrowded beaches and colorful architecture, many of your clients may still have questions about safety (compared to other Latin American cities with similar draws).
- Cape Town, South Africa: This city is the perfect jumping-off point for 2009 safari trips to Africa, but it offers a very cosmopolitan option for travelers who've never visited the continent at all. (www.southafrica.net)
- Berlin, Germany: Frommers promotes this destination as a very affordable "one stop" travel spot in Europe, from families interested in history to singles and couples seeking the party scene. (www.berlin-tourist-information.de)
- Belfast, Northern Ireland: If your clients visit Belfast expecting to see army tanks and bombed-out buildings, they'll be disappointed. The relative peace in this region has positioned the city as a premier (and budget-friendly) U.K. vacation spot. (www.gotobelfast.com)
- Angkor Wat, Cambodia: As one of the country's most popular tourism attractions, this temple complex in the jungle draws lots of travelers already - but, lower package prices in 2009 should put it within reach of many more clients than before. (www.tourismcambodia.com)
- Waterton National Park, Alberta, Canada: This destination offers the natural beauty and isolated wonders of the Canadian Rockies, without the high-priced lodges in the mix. It's one of the least visited parks in Canada's system, but you'll still find many lodging options nearby at great prices this year. (www.watertoninfo.ab.ca)
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Good luck finding bargains for your clients this year!
(Credits: Susan Sterner; Christiaan Briggs; Lettkow; Elysuzanne; Ken Thomas; stock photos)
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