Time to check out your neighbors: Mexico and Central America
Every month seems to bring a new low point for the dollar against the euro, and flight prices keep rising in tandem with fuel costs. Tim Leffel says this would be a good year to check out the exotic lands just to the south, from Mexico down through Panama.
Beating the crowds to Panama
Panama is a place of many distinctions, including the Panama hat, the Panama Canal and one of the world’s best-known palindromes: “A man, a plan, a canal — Panama!” Best of all, it is one of those few remaining destinations where prices are good, tour buses are few, and there’s enough to keep you occupied for weeks — without big sacrifices in comfort. Tim Leffel takes you there.
5 ways to find a shoulder-season deal
High season means premium prices, but low season can mean bad weather, boarded-up shops or even hurricanes. To find the perfect pairing of good conditions and low prices, Tim Leffel guides you to the magic time known as the “shoulder season.”
Tourist discount cards: Deal or no deal?
Visit a tourism bureau Web site for a popular city, and you’ll probably see a prominent offer for a discounted museum pass or other attractions card. Is it a deal? Not necessarily. Tim Leffel runs the numbers.
Greenbacks abroad: There are still some bargains
The U.S. dollar declined 10 percent or more against 53 foreign currencies in 2007, creating a depressing global picture for those traveling with greenbacks. Fortunately there are still plenty of destinations where you can get a lot for your battered currency. Tim Leffel tells you where to go.
The high price of high-price hotels
Hotel room rates are hitting record highs and the extra fees add up quickly at a five-star hotel. There are occupancy taxes, resort fees, the Wi-Fi access charge, gym fees - you name it. But it doesn’t stop there. Tim Leffel reveals the “unseen luxury tax” — six unexpected ways luxury hotels will cost you even more than you think.
4 alternatives to renting a car abroad
We spend untold hours in our cars while commuting and running errands at home. But do we need to get behind the wheel while visiting another country? Tim Leffel lays out four ways to avoid the hassle and expense of renting a car abroad.
Help for the battered European travel budget
It’s all gloom and doom in the news for the dollar-carrying traveler planning a trip to Europe. Is there any way to pull off a European vacation without breaking the bank? Tim Leffel says yes, but it takes strategizing, a contrarian attitude and plenty of flexibility.
No reservations about no reservations
Can you jet off to some exotic locale with no hotel reservations in hand and still have a fun, stress-free family vacation? Tim Leffel puts the concept to the test in Mexico and finds it even easier than he expected.
Take your U.S. dollars to Latin America
With the U.S. greenback now on life support compared to the euro and the Canadian dollar, what’s an international traveler to do? That’s easy: Head south to Latin America. Tim Leffel shows you where the battered dollar can still act tough.