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The Caribbean is a very popular travel destination, known for its warm weather, great beaches, countless activities and superb nature. But this doesn’t mean the area is not struggling during the economic crisis.

This article from Hospitality.net presents the travel industry index based on the Smith Travel Research database which comprises more than 2,250 hotels with some 238,000 rooms in the Caribbean.

Compared to October 2008, this year occupancy declined 5.1%. The average daily rate fell by 15.6% which pushed down the revenue per available room (RevPAR) by almost 20%. New hotels didn’t open this year so the fall in occupancy was triggered only by decreased demand.

According to the Caribbean Tourism Organization, the majority of tourists visiting the area are from the United States, Europe and Canada. The peak occupancy months are February to April, coinciding with the peak travel season in the Caribbean and the bad winter weather in the above mentioned areas.

As the markets in the United States, Europe and Canada started to see minor improvements in September and October, so did the demand for hotel rooms in the Caribbean. Compared to September 2008, this year the demand increased by 5.7% while in October it only rose by 1% (compared to October 2008). RevPAR also saw an increase in September 2009 and October 2009 (0.5% and 6.8% respectively).

Compared to last year, in October 2009, the RevPAR declined the most in the Bahamas (-17.7%) and Puerto Rico (-17.1%) while Aruba saw a decrease of 13%. The Bahamas also experienced the biggest occupancy decline (-11.2%).

What does the future hold?

The Caribbean area should see a rise in tourism as the economies in the United States, Europe and Canada gain momentum. When the economies are starting to get out of the crisis, travelers are most likely to book vacations.

However, in Europe, the hotel prices continued to fall in December (by 8%). Compared to November 2009, the prices have decreased by 4%. Many European cities decided to attract travelers to celebrate Christmas by decreased the hotel rates. Milan, Venice and Barcelona are very good examples. On the other hand, the cities where traditional Christmas Markets were held saw an increase in room rates.

The high season in Hawaii lasts from mid-December until mid-April and it’s the time when everyone seems to want to come here. Therefore, the prices tend to be on the high side and looking for deals is the easiest way to save some money. Hawaii Vacation from $830.00 per person, airfare not included.

The package comprises 7-nights accommodation in a moderate resort in Kauai. The resort is located just 8 miles from Lihue airport and it’s a great place to spend a family vacation . All rooms have AC, TV, radio, data port, fully equipped kitchen and many more amenities. There’s free wi-fi within the resort.

Make sure to also book a flight to Hawaii . You should be looking at deals for flights directly into Lihue airport but if those seem a bit too expensive, fly into Honolulu and then catch a local low-cost flight into Kauai.

Caribbean vacations are also good deals

The high season is also in full swing in the Caribbean, between mid-December and mid-March. The weather is excellent and those wanting to escape the cold weather back home flock to the islands.

Jamaica is one of the cheaper destinations in the Caribbean and you can book a 4-night all inclusive vacation here for prices starting at $392.00 per person. The offer doesn’t include the flight so make sure to book the flight to Jamaica as well. There are two big airports to choose from and deals are often available from the airlines serving both airports.

The Caribbean is a very romantic destination so don’t be shy and plan a Valentine’s getaway for you and your loved one. Special deals are already available and you can even choose among the many Valentine’s Day cruises Rates start as low as $429 for a 7-day Western Caribbean cruise, round trip flight to Miami included.

A romantic Valentine’s Day in Hawaii

Hawaii is a very beautiful and romantic place to spend Valentine’s Day . Although it’s not a very cheap destination, it surely can be an excellent way to impress your loved one. There are many romantic things to do in Hawaii and many of them don’t have to cost too much.

Niagara Falls lies on the border between New York (USA) and Ontario (Canada). The spectacular waterfall draws tourists on either side but it’s said that the sights on the Canadian side are more impressive. Also, the Canadian side draws more visitors because of the additional attractions and plentiful accommodation.

The best season to visit the falls is in the summer but a winter vacation in Niagara Falls offers a totally different experience. Winter weather is cold and temperatures generally stay below freezing (January’s daytime average is -1C/30F). Snow fall is frequent and the Niagara River is partially frozen (so boat tours aren’t possible).

Planning the budget

Visiting Niagara Falls can be a nice family vacation . Aside from visiting the falls, there are several museums to check out and lots of activities to enjoy during winter.

However, especially during the cold season, it’s probably a good idea to plan the vacation on your own, allowing for possible delays due to the winter weather. If you come from the States, book a flight to Buffalo . The airport is located about 20-30 minutes by car from the falls (allow for longer travel times during winter).

If you come from the Canadian side, you can book a flight to Toronto . Allow for at least one hour and a half to reach the falls by car, although typically it takes longer due to the traffic.

With the flight and rental car secured, it’s time to look for accommodation. Cheap hotels in Niagra Falls are incredibly easy to find, especially during low season. Although it’s a very popular vacation destination, you won’t find too many hotel chains here. Instead, you’ll be pleased to find affordable accommodation on both sides of the falls.

What to do in Niagara Falls in winter

Visiting the falls is free but during the winter season, due to the frost, it’s not possible to take the tour boats. So if you are looking for that experience, plan your vacation during the summer season. Likewise, if you want to test the rides at Marineland Theme Park, you should plan your vacation between May and October.

If you want to experience some interesting views of the falls, go to the observation deck at Skylon Tower (Canadian side). The revolving restaurant offers the same incredible views and there are arcade games at the base of the tower.

Niagara Skywheel (Canadian side) is open year round and offers a 10-minute ride in a ferry wheel. The views of the falls are great.

Winter Festival of Lights takes place in Niagara Falls (Canadian side) between November and January. More than 3 million lights are installed in the buildings and trees. The festival attracts over 1 million visitors each year. There are regular parades, comedy shows, concerts and fireworks displays during the festival.

Queen Victoria Park (Canadian side) offers the best views of the falls. In winter, the landscape is filled with white snow and barren trees. Icicles and crystalline formations form on the trees because of the mist from the falls which drifts up in the freezing weather.

Where to stay

Affordable accommodation is available on both sides of the falls although there are more options on the Canadian side. However, during winter it’s not a problem to find an affordable place to stay regardless of which side you prefer.

Falls Motel (American side) is located only minutes from the falls. All rooms have TV, fridge and coffee/tea making facilities. Room rates aren’t available online but on booking sites you can find rooms start at US$30 per night in late January.

Rodeway Inn Niagara Falls (Canadian side) is located in the Fallsview Tourist Area, just two blocks from the Falls. There’s wi-fi in public areas and two restaurants on site, as well as a heated outdoor pool. The 2010 rates aren’t yet available but a one night package in November 2009 started at $79.99.

Best Western Cairn Croft Hotel (Canadian side) offers 165 guest rooms, all with AC, TV, radio, phone, coffee/tea makers and data jacks. In January, the room rates start at CAD$59.99 per night (2 queen beds).

Doubletree Fallsview Resort & Spa by Hilton – Niagara Falls (Canadian side) is located just two blocks from the falls and offers 224 guest rooms. All rooms have mini-fridge. Free wi-fi is available within the property. In January, room rates start at CAD$89.00 per night (2 queen beds).

Country Inn & Suites Niagara Falls (Canadian side) is located in the heart of the tourist district. All rooms have TV, coffee maker, hair dryer, phone and free wi-fi. In January, room rates start at CAD$58.41 per night (hot deal) and CAD$64.90 per night (standard rate).

“The Big Apple” is America’s biggest city. Also known as “The City which Never Sleeps”, New York is one of those places which have to be visited at least once in a lifetime. The city consists of five boroughs and accommodation is much more expensive in Manhattan than anywhere else. Still, most visitors come here to explore only Manhattan.

>>read more about Colorful and Magical Winter Celebrations in Manhattan

Each of the city’s boroughs has something to offer the visitors. However, with the limited time we have for our vacations, most of us only manage to visit the landmarks. The Statue of Liberty is, without a doubt, New York’s symbol. You can visit the museum at the base of the statue. Brooklyn Bridge connects Manhattan to Brooklyn. Don’t be shy and explore at least bit of Brooklyn and make sure to try some of the incredible pizza. Walk back to Manhattan and enjoy the view of the island. Times Square is the heart of Manhattan and if you like the fast-pace life then you’ll enjoy spending some time here. Especially during winter, Rockefeller Plaza is a place you should check out. While the Christmas Tree won’t be here for too long, the skating rink is open during the entire winter. And there’s always a lot of shopping to do. And, of course, Central Park is definitely a place to visit, where you just plan to relax or want to visit the Zoo.

Planning the budget

No matter how you look at it, a vacation in New York is bound to be expensive. The city is expensive and it takes quite a lot to find a cheaper place to stay and which is located in a decent area.

New York vacation packages are available and you can end up saving some money especially if they comprise show tickets or discounted admission to landmarks.

But you can also create your own package. New York City area is served by three large airports. If you come from outside the US, chances are you’ll be looking for flights into JFK . The airport is located just 12 miles from Manhattan but with the crazy traffic it might take up to an hour to get to your hotel. If you fly from another US city, chances are that you’ll find cheap flights into either LaGuardia or Newark Liberty International Airport.

And speaking of expensive vacations… New York is known for the high hotel prices. Although the economic crisis has pushed the rates slightly down, it’s still hard to find cheap hotels in New York . You can forget about Manhattan if your budget is low but you can try to other boroughs. Read the reviews carefully so that you won’t end up in a dodgy area.

What to do in New York in January

Such a large city doesn’t lack events and festivals, regardless of the time of the year when you travel.

If you like shows, then you can watch Mary Poppins at the New Amsterdam Theatre from the first of the month until January 18, 2010. It is a music ideal for families and especially fort those who like the movie.

Another good choice for those who live shows is West Side Story (NY) which can be seen at Palace Theatre during January. And Cirque du Soleil : Wintuk takes place at WaMu Theatre (Madison Square Garden) during January 2010 from 11 a.m.

If you prefer concerts than you can choose among: Titus Andronicus (Mercury Lounge), Gogol Bordello (Webster Hall), Ludacris (Apollo Theater) and Patti Smith and Her Band (The Bowery Ballroom).

Where to stay

Finding a cheap place to stay in such a popular city can be quite an adventure. Most visitors prefer Manhattan because that’s where the popular landmarks are located. Don’t be shy to explore the near-by boroughs or look for hostels in New York.

Hostelling International New York is located just one block from Broadway Avenue and is the largest hostel in New York. The hostel offers free linen and towels , as well as free in-room lockers and wi-fi access. Rates start at $40 per person per night in a 4 bed dorm and $25 per person per night in a 10 bed dorm.

Jazz on Lenox is located in Upper Manhattan and offers both private rooms and dorms. There’s free wi-fi in the Lounge. Guests can use the fully equipped kitchen area. Bed rates start at $24.50 per night per person in a twin private room and $10 per night per person in a 12 bed mixed dorm.

Pink Hostels: Female Only is the first and only female only hostel in New York. It is located a block north of Central Park and offers a kitchen area, a lounge, washers and dryers. The suggested age limit is 55. Bed rates start at $50 per person per night in a twin private room and $19 per person per night in a 10 bed dorm.

International Student Center is located near Central Park and offers 50 dormitories. The guests must be between 18 and 35. Free linen is offered by the hostel. There’s a kitchen the guests can use and a lounge. Bed prices start at $20 per night per person in any dorm.

The Wanderers Inn West is located in the historic Harlem, just three blocks away from Central Park. All dormitories have their own bathrooms. During summer all rooms have AC. Free breakfast is offered by the hostel and there’s free wi-fi in the lobby. Prices start at $41 per person per night in a double bed room and $22.25 per person per night in a 12 bed mixed dorm.

The start of December doesn’t seem to come with good news for the U.S. hotel industry. According to this article all three key performance measurements decreased in the week of November 29 – December 5, 2009.

The market performance measurements are going down

Compared to the same period last year, the occupancy rate in the U.S. hotels fell by 4.9%, reaching only 47.6% on average. The average room rate (ADR) dropped by 7.3% compared to the same period in 2008, reaching $96.25, while the revenue per available (RevPAR) room dropped by 11.95%.

The highest decrease in occupancy rate was reported by Houston (Texas). The 23.2% decrease led to an average occupancy rate of 51.1% during the week of December 5. Orlando and San Francisco are doing just as worse, with occupancy rates falling by 10% in both cities.

San Francisco also reported the largest ADR decrease. It fell by 25.9%, reaching $122.94 per night. Phoenix (Arizona) and Miami (Florida) aren’t doing very well either, with ADR decreasing by 16.1% and 15.6% respectively.

When it comes to the RevPAR, the largest decrease was reported by Huston. It fell by 34.1% reaching $45.36. San Francisco had the same fate, with RevPAR falling by 33.3%.

But some numbers are going up

Out of all hotel segments, the luxury one reported an increase of 1.5% in occupancy rate reaching 61.4%.

Out of the Top 25 markets, Hawaii is leading, with the Oahu Island occupancy rate rising 15.3% to 74.7%. New Orleans (Louisiana) follows, with an increase of 13.1%, reaching 67.6%, while Tampa-St. Petersburg (Florida) reports an increase of 11.8%, reaching 52.2%.

New Orleans reported the only increase in ADR. The prices went up by 25.9%, reaching $150.39 per night. The city also reported the largest RevPAR. It went up by a whooping 42.4% and reached $101.72. Oahu Island and Tampa-St.Petersburg also reported increases by 7.1% and 1.8% respectively.

What’s the trend, anyway?

Looking back at the data for the week ending on November 28, 2009 things seem to go getting slightly worse (at least in some cities). Overall, during November 22-28, 2009, compared to the same period last year the occupancy rate fell by 1.7% and ADR dropped by 6.7%.

But Oahu Island keeps reporting increase in occupancy rate (27% for the week ending on Nov 28 and 15.3% for the week ending on Dec 5). However, several markets which reported good numbers for the previous week, are now reporting decreases.

Overall, no one is sure what would happen over the next weeks. Signs are that the occupancy rate, ADR and RevPAR are going up in certain cities. But once the winter holidays are over, there’s still a lot of uncertainty in the air.

What do us all thing of when we mention New Orleans? Comfort southern food, jazz, Mardi Gras, above-ground cemeteries and the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. Most tourists come to visit the French Quarter and can easily forget about the hurricane since this historic part of the city was relatively unscathed.

There are numerous things to do and see in New Orleans, although the majority of travelers stay within the French Quarter. You can stroll the historic neighborhoods and aside from exploring the French Quarter, go to Uptown and Carrollton as well. You can also take some interesting streetcar rides (St. Charles Avenue and Canal Street). If you would like a cruise but the budget doesn’t allow for it, the river ferry from the foot of Canal Street to Algiers Point. It offers an incredible view of downtown, the river and the French Quarter.

Planning the budget

A family cruise on Mississippi river can be an excellent choice for you. Aside from the fantastic views, you’ll also get to visit several landmarks along the way and enjoy the Creole cuisine.

But if your travel style is different and you prefer to explore the city at your pace, then you should definitely book the flight and accommodation separately. New Orleans is served by an international airport and although it’s not a hub for any major airline, Southwest Airlines offers a lot of flights into it. Cheap flights to New Orleans are not hard to find but if you want to come here during the Carnival Season (which starts in early January), make sure to book the flight in advance.

The majority of travelers would want to book a cheap hotel in New Orleans right in the heart of the French Quarter. However, that might be quite impossible if your budget is low. But there are beautiful areas near-by where you’ll find excellent accommodation for great prices. If you want to come to New Orleans during the Carnival Season, make sure to book the accommodation in advance.

Carnival Season Starts on January 6

Mardi Gras has always been considered the world’s biggest party. It always falls on a Tuesday, 46 days before Easter, which means in 2010, Mardi Gras (or “Fat Tuesday”) takes place on February 16, 2010.

But that’s the last day of serious partying and the beginning of Lent. The Carnival Season begins on January 6, 2010. It is the known as Twelfth Night or King’s Day, as it falls 12 days after Christmas, on the day when the Wise Men are said to have reached Bethlehem.

The events are both private and public. The private events take the form of balls organized by clubs (or Krewes). The same Krewes sponsor the public events, which take the form of parades.

A special “cake” is eaten during the Carnival Season and on Mardi Gras: the king cake. The sweet dough is shaped into a big circle, cooked and brushed with purple, green and gold sugar and a plastic baby (representing Christ child) is hidden inside. The lucky finder of the figurine has to provide the cake for next year.

Where to stay

Make sure to book your hotel or hostel in advance if you plan to be in New Orleans for the parades during the Carnival Season. There are numerous affordable places to stay located close to the French Quarter.

India House Backpackers Hostel is located on the Canal Streetcar line, just minutes from the French Quarter. The hostel is also on the Endymion parade route, the best parade at Mardi Gras. There are both dorms and private rooms available. Hostel organizes band nights, movies nights, swimming pool parties, cookouts and BBQs. In late January, bed prices start at $22.50 per person per night in a double room and $20 per night in a 12-bed mixed dorm.

St. Vincent’s Guesthouse is located on Magazine Street, just 25 minutes walk (or 5 minutes bus ride) from the French Quarter. It offers 25 rooms, all with bathroom, AC, phone and TV. Free wi-fi is available and there’s a kitchen the guests can use. In late January, bed prices start at $25 per person per night in a double room.

Creole Inn is located right next to the French Quarter. They offer free wi-fi and free parking. Room rates start at $33 per night in a single room and $8.25 per person per night in a 4-bed private room.

Drury Inn & Suites New Orleans is located in the Central Business District and offers free Evening Beverages every day (5:30-7:00 p.m). There’s free wi-fi throughout the hotel and in the rooms. In late January room rates start at $102.99 per night (2 double bed deluxe non smoking).

International House Boutique Hotel is located just two blocks from the French Quarter, in the Historic Central Business District. There’s free wi-fi within the hotel. Guests can use the fitness center and enjoy a meal at the restaurant or relax with a drink at the bar. In late January room rates start at $129 per night (deluxe queen room).

Naperville is considered one of the best places to live in the United States. If you don’t plan to move here just yet, spending a vacation in the city will definitely be a good idea to get to know the place and maybe even consider retiring here.

The city is small but picturesque. The downtown area is filled with high-end chain stores, specialty shops and restaurants, all houses in charming old buildings. Through downtown runs Riverwalk (along the shore of the DuPage river). You should also consider visiting the Naper Settlement, which is a reconstruction of how the town looked in the 1800s.

Planning the budget

Quite, charming, and filled with history, Naperville is a great place for a family vacation . Plus, since Chicago is just 28 miles away, you can always rent a car and check out the sights in the city.

The largest airport near Naperville is Chicago O’Hare International Airport. Finding flights to Chicago is not hard at all but you’d probably want to avoid the peak travel season (July, August, Christmas, New Year’s). Once in Chicago, rent a car and drive to Naperville (just 28 miles away).

Although a small town Naperville offers a lot of affordable places to stay. Cheap hotels in Naperville are easy to find at the outskirts of the town. There are plenty of inns and motels to choose from. Should you want to stay closer to downtown the prices will be slightly more expensive.

What to do in Naperville in January

Remember I mentioned earlier that Naperville is a great place for a family vacation? If you plan to take the kids here, they will be delighted by the many events organized by the DuPage Children’s Museum during January.

Family Fun Friday Night: Beach Party takes place on January 8, 2010. Beach-themed activities, snacks and music are the main ingredients. And yeah, try to forget it’s winter and pretend the temperature is in the 80s.

In the same spirit of forgetting about winter, kids can attend the Tiny Great Performances: Tropical Sound Steel Drum – Caribbean Music on January 9, 2010. Listen to songs from the Caribbean. It’s free for Museum members (guests need to pay admission).

Love movies? Than the Family Fun Friday Night: Movie Night on January 15, 2010 will please you. Short films will be showed for the enjoyment of the entire family.

There are also other interesting things to do and events to attend, which will keep the adults happy as well. The 7th annual NCO Youth & Family Services Chocolate Festival takes place in mid-January. The Sweet Treats Baking Competition and the Chocolate Competition takes place on January 16, 2010 as part of the festival. Participants will be judged based on taste, appearance and creativity. Guests can drool and then buy the goodies.

Where to stay

Finding a cheap place to stay in Naperville is not hard at all. You should consider though that staying close to downtown offers quick access to the sights. But if you stay at the outskirts of the city you can rent a car and everything will be within close reach.

Holiday Inn Select Chicago Naperville is located just minutes from downtown. It’s a 100% non-smoking hotel which offers 426 rooms. The inn offers a swimming pool, a fitness center, a terrace bar and a terrace café. There’s free wi-fi both in the lobby and in the rooms. Room rates start at $88 per night (standard room, 1 king bed room).

Country Inn & Suites Naperville is located close to O’Hare International Airport, just three miles from downtown Naperville. The inn offers free daily breakfast. The services include an indoor pool, fitness center and free wi-fi within the property. Room rates start at $79 per night (guest room with high speed internet).

Fairfield Inn & Suites Naperville is located near I-88 and just minutes away from Chicago Premium Outlet Mall and Naperville Riverwalk. The inn offers complimentary daily breakfast and wi-fi. There’s also a heated indoor pool available. Parking is free for the guests. Room rates start at $109.99 per night (guest room, 2 Queen).

Red Roof Inn offers new rooms, all with T-Mobile high speed internet access. Some rooms have microwave and fridge. Kids under 17 stay for free. There’s free coffee available throughout the day. The inn offers free parking for its guests. Room rates start at $54.99 per night (standard, 2 beds, no smoking, TV).

Baymont Naperville offers a fitness center, free wi-fi in all rooms, free daily breakfast and free cable. All rooms are equipped with coffee maker, iron board and hair dryer. Some rooms also have microwave and fridge. Room rates start at $56.52 (taxes included) per night for 1 double bed room.

A while ago, we wrote about the occupancy rates starting to improve in September in the Middle East and the United States. But Europe is still dragging its feet in the crisis and the recent data is not encouraging.

According to this article the room rates in Europe are 8% less than they were in December 2008. In comparison to November 2009, room rates fell by 4%.

Unfortunately, that’s the situation in almost all European major cities. The only exception is Copenhagen where the room rates increased by 21% in December 2009 compared to November 2009 (due to a Conference).

United Kingdom – 9th most expensive destination in Europe

Overall, in the United Kingdom, the room rates fell by 5% in December 2009 compared to November 2009. When it comes to the large British cities, room rates fell by 21% in Manchester and 15% in Edinburgh compared to December 2008. The average price for a double room is £90 per night. The cheapest hotel rooms can be found in Wales, followed by Northern Ireland and Scotland. England still has the most expensive room rates in December 2009, averaging £90 per night. But in London the average room rates are still above £100 per night.

In Dublin (Irish capital) the average room rate fell by 19% compared to December 2008 and the average room price is £86 per night.

Cheap European cities and Christmas markets

If you still haven’t done your Christmas shopping or just want to spend the holidays in a different setting, there are several large European cities which are still very affordable. Room rates in December 2009 dropped by 14% in Milan, compared to November 2009, averaging £99 per night. Barcelona is also pleased to welcome travelers with room rates averaging £87 per night, 9% less than last month. And Istanbul remains the center of bargain shopping and hotels are welcoming travelers with room rates averaging £73 per night, a 10% decrease compared to last month.

Christmas markets , on the other hand, have a different effect on the room rates. Since travelers flock to the cities which run famous Christmas markets, the room rates have seen an increase compared to last month. In Nuremberg (Germany) the room rate increased by 12% compared to November 2009, averaging £97 per night for a standard double room, while in Vienna tourists pay, on average, £99 per night for a double room, 5% more than in November 2009. The trend is the same, whether you plan to go to Germany, Austria or Switzerland.

Most tourists believe that Myrtle Beach is the kind of destination spot for the rich and famous, for those who prefer country clubs, play golf and enjoy expensive cocktails all day long. You are not too far from the truth, but Myrtle Beach can also be a nice family vacation destination.

Located along the South Atlantic coast of South Carolina, Myrtle Beach is known for its sandy beaches, good sea restaurants, golf courses and shopping. Should you prefer to explore the nature, Myrtle Beach State Park is an excellent choice boasts a mile of beachfront and includes a large campground, a fishing pier and nature trails.

Planning the budget

During the high season – May to August – it’s often a good idea to look up Myrtle Beach vacation packages . Since you’ll be traveling at the same time as the rest of the tourists, expect the prices to be quite expensive.

If you want to visit the area during winter, you will definitely not see tourists. But it’s also tricky to find accommodation, as many resorts close down during the low season. Cheap hotels in Myrtle Beach do exist and are easier to find during winter.

While the city is served by Myrtle Beach International Airport and is served by companies such as Delta, Continental, Northwest, Spirit, U.S. Airways and Myrtle Beach Direct Air, it is a better idea to fly into a major airport, especially if you come from overseas. Cheap flights to South Carolina are not hard to find and if you fly into Charleston – about 2 ½ hours by car from Myrtle Beach – or Atlanta, you are guaranteed to find some good deals.

What to do in winter

Myrtle Beach is a summer destination so you should not be surprised that there aren’t many things to do during winter, nor is the destination very enjoyable at this time of the year.

Grand Strand Boat Show takes place at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center between January 5 and January 11, 2010. It features an incredible selection of state-of-the-art boats that include speed boats, fishing boats, yachts, and plenty more. Also, visitors can enjoy two fashion shows featuring the newest swim and casual wear for the beach and a Bathing Suit Contest.

Myrtle Beach Marathon takes place at Coastal Federal Field from February 11 to February 14, 2010. If you want to run but cannot handle the marathon, the Le Bleu One Mile Family Fun Run is an excellent choice. The marathon takes runners along the ocean, picturesque golf courses, the Myrtle Beach Strip, and plenty more beautiful places.

SOS Spring Safari takes place at North Myrtle Beach from February 26 to February 28, 2010. It brings shag-dancers from all over the country to Myrtle Beach. During the event, several clubs and venues will sponsor special events to welcome seasoned shaggers, such as dance workshops, exhibitions, contests, live entertainment, and a shag parade.

Where to stay

Of course, such a popular beach destination is filled with expensive places to stay. And even the cheaper places aren’t exactly cheap either. But if you come here during the low season (winter) you won’t pay an arm and a leg for a room.

Island Vista is an excellent resort for families, honeymooners, and golfers. It features wi-fi on the property, children activities, water activities, pool, bar, spa and fitness center. Golf packages are available. In mid-January room rates start at $71 per room per night for an oceanfront (or ocean view) room.

Caribbean Resort And Villas has a history of over 40 years and has been recently renovated. It offers 2, 3 and 4 bedroom luxury units, as well as 2 & 3 bedroom condos. During mid-January, the cheapest room starts at $36.75 per night (ocean view room).

Long Bay Resort was voted Best Myrtle Beach Hotel For Golf Packages by Sun News in 2004 and Best Overall Hotel in Myrtle Beach by Sun News in 2006. It features 286 oceanfront condos, suites, efficiencies and rooms and is located in the north end of town. There is a restaurant on site, an exercise room and there are golf packages available. During mid-January, the cheapest room starts at $39 per night (resort view) and $49 per night (oceanfront).

Marina Inn at Grande Dunes is located between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway and is an excellent location for those looking for a relaxed, romantic vacation. It is a luxury resort and even during the low season, the prices are quite high. The New Years Eve Package starts at $325 per couple. In mid-January expect to pay $109 per night for the Grande Guest Room.

Sea Watch Resort offers luxury studios in two towers overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It is an excellent choice for families with children and for those who want to play golf. It is located only minutes from the Tanger Outlets so those wanting to shop will be pleased as well. Hot deals are available and include the New Year’s Eve Celebration (from $79.53 per night and includes breakfast), $mart Rate$ Winter Escape (from $65 per night) and golf packages. In mid-January, the room rates start at $79.53 per night (oceanfront studio).