Five great travel ideas that are wallet friendly, terrific mini-vacations

Just about everyone is watching their pocketbook and budgets with an eagle eye these days. We worry about paying the mortgage, eating and getting to work. Travel and vacations are way down on our list of priorities. Many people don't even entertain the notion of taking a trip. However, all work and no play ...? Here we've got five travel ideas that are doable, even when you're on a stringent budget. Let's take a look at how you can do it. Think of it as therapy for your spirit. Just a brief respite from the rat race can work wonders at relieving stress and re-energizing your spirits!

1.Just how well do you know the towns and attractions within a 50 mile radius of home? When you think vacation, that charming little coastal town just 30 miles away probably does not cross your mind. Yet, if you've never been there, you have no idea how it gained it's charming reputation. Go online and check it out. You may be surprised at what you find. Is it an artsy community, full of B&B's, artisans, a cheese factory or winery? Check their calendar for local festivals and theatre productions. A one night stay at the historic B&B and two days filled with exploring the town won't break the bank and serves to put enough distance between you and the same-old same-old to allow you to lose yourself for just a couple of days, returning home refreshed and cheery, ready to face another month of toil.

2.The weekend getaway travel idea may be modified as a parent-only romantic weekend. Depending on where you live, you may not even have to leave your home town! During the winter months, hotels often run specials to attract visitors during the slow season. Check your local newspaper and give some of the better hotels a call to see if they've got anything going. If your goal is to just kick back, take a swim in the indoor pool area, enjoy a little romance, watch movies and not have to make breakfast, this very affordable travel idea can be just the ticket. Should an emergency arise, you can be home in ten minutes!

3.If your purse allows for a bit more extravagance, scour the travel newsletters for those last minute bargain airfares. They are out there, you just need to be diligent in checking them regularly. Many are all-inclusive packages that get you to some beach front paradise. Even if you have to set aside money from each paycheck for a few months, this travel idea can have you snorkeling, sun bathing and enjoying an exotic array of food in a new and exciting culture that satisfies your travel itch and lasts for months to come.

4.Don't forget that the travel industry is in somewhat of a slump. They want and need your business. You've probably seen the television ads for resorts, offering gas coupons and other incentives, along with reduced rates. Choose one within driving distance and take advantage of these great prices. These days, you need to think outside the box for travel ideas that are affordable and still exciting enough to provide that break you need.

5.Our last travel idea applies to when you're traveling by air. Now that airlines add hefty charges for extra baggage, pack smart and save. Wherever you're going, there's absolutely no reason to take more than a carry-on, even when traveling in winter. Wear your coat, boots and at least one sweater when you board. Roll the rest of your clothes. Buy your toiletries at your destination. Two dress outfits, one pair of dress shoes, a pair of jeans, a few pairs of undies and a couple of t-shirts is really all you'll need.

It's almost guaranteed that one of these travel ideas will dovetail perfectly with your vacation plans. Have a good one!

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