It's a down economy and you can certainly take advantage of discounts and huge savings the travel industry is offering. Btu there are other tips that you should be aware of that the travel industry does not want you to know about.
1. Resorts may offer incredible discounts but when you get there you may be inclined to spend a lot of expensive food and services. To avoid the service charges and over priced food, consider preparing in advance. If there is a refrigerator in the room, take advantage of it and stock it with your own water and refreshments for breakfast each morning. Stock up on fruit and cereals at the local convenient store so that you don't have to take multiple trips out. The idea is to enjoy your holiday not spend all day in search of food.
2. Avoid the hotel laundry and use a local washing service. If none are available, pack enough clothes so you don't have to use the laundry until you return home.
3. Avoid the mini bar in the hotel room. The mini bar is typically stocked with over priced soft drinks, nuts, candy bars and liquors. Buy your own at a local store and avoid the high prices on your bill at check out.
4. If you rent a car , remember to fill it before returning it and always check the level at time of rental. If it is not full, tell the attendant to note your account before driving off. Otherwise you will be paying for someone else's fuel.
5. If you rent a car for a week or longer, try to avoid the airport rental car companies. They must charge a tax for airport use and this can add up considerably. Use the closest location to the airport and take a taxi or shuttle to the location. The cost of the taxi is still far less than the extra rental fees.
6. Watch out for hidden fees before you board the plane. Airlines are trying to find sneaky ways to earn an extra buck. And they do this in clever ways: Charging for meals, extra fee for baggage, etc. Avoid the fees by planning in advance. Bring your own food on board if possible and weigh your luggage ahead of time.
7. Research online for discount codes and coupons. But keep in mind the fine print. Some deals state 40% off rack rates at only certain hotels. The discount is not 40% off the discounted rate you found online. Therefore you may only end up saving 10% of your rate. Also make sure the coupon is good for your hotel at your preferred location. Some coupons are only good for certain countries and/or certain resorts. You may not know this until you are at the check in desk and its too late.
