Hotels.bootsnall.com

Greensboro is a rather sleepy town in North Carolina which lately has been enjoying a newfound reputation among the young crowds. The Downtown area is packed with posh clubs and restaurants. Others enjoy the historical fell of the city and prefer to walk through Fisher Park, a 100-year old neighborhood or visit the site of the historic Woolworth’s Sit-In.

Best value: vacation packages or independent travel

Greensboro is one of those charming cities which can be an excellent place for a family vacation. If you want your kids to learn some history without feeling like they are forced to study then booking a family vacation package in Greensboro is a very good idea. Such packages typically comprise the round trip flight, accommodation and the tickets to enter historical sites or museums.

Although Greensboro is served by its own airport, you will have better luck with finding cheap airfare if you decide to fly into a larger airport. Raleigh-Durham Airport is located 66 miles from Greensboro and is a good choice for travelers. Flights to Raleigh-Durham are easy to find although the airport doesn’t serve as hub to any airline now. However, it’s one of the fastest growing airports in the country. Alternatively you can fly into Charlotte. The airport serving the city is hub for US Airways . From either airport you can rent a car to get to Greensboro and enjoy the scenery along the way.

Once the flight booked and car rented, you need to find a place to stay. Cheap hotels in Greensboro aren’t very hard to find. It makes sense to want to stay in the downtown area but since we are talking about a small city the prices tend to be high in such locations. However, once you get a bit further from the center, the prices go down and you are still quite close to the sights.

Fall Festivals in Greensboro

October 10 (Sat) marks the day of the Fall Festival in Greensboro. It’s a fun-filled time with activities and things to do suitable for the entire family. The kids can go to petting zoo, practice their skills at crafts, check out the pumpkin patch, get their faces painted or enjoy the rides. The event is free but if you want to get food, produce, crafts and other items you need to pay.

On October 24 (Sat) those who enjoy the spooky part of Halloween can go to the cemetery behind the Greensboro Historical Museum for the Goulash! Moonlight Cemetery Walk. The same night, ghost stories are told at the Museum. The tradition has been going on for years and the kids absolutely love to help with the spooky atmosphere.

Where to stay

Regardless of your reasons to visit Greensboro, finding an affordable place to stay close to the sights is a good idea. If you travel with the kids, it’s wise to look for suites which are equipped with some basic kitchen facilities.

Best Western Windsor Suites : offers free breakfast and has a fitness center and pool for the guests to use. It’s located within walking distance from the Four Seasons Mall and comprises 76 suites. All rooms are equipped with free wi-fi, coffee maker, TV, fridge, microwave and AC. Room rates start at $94 per night (internet only rate from $84.60).

Drury Inn and Suites Greensboro : offers complimentary breakfast and free snacks during the day. There’s free wi-fi within the property and the guests can use the pool. All rooms are equipped with fridge and microwave. Rates star at $103 per night.

Comfort Suites Airport : is located off Interstate 40, close to the airport. It offers free airport shuttle service, free breakfast and free local calls. There are 113 rooms available and it’s a pet friendly hotel. The Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Pointe water park is located just 10 miles away. There’s free wi-fi in each room. Also, the rooms are equipped with fridge, microwave and AC. Room rates start at $130 per night.

SpringHill Suites Greensboro : is centrally located, off Wendover Avenue. There’s free wi-fi and each room is equipped with minifridge, coffee maker and microwave. Rates start from $134 per night.

Hampton Inn Greensboro Airport : is located quite close to all the sights. There’s a fitness room and pool for the guests to enjoy. Rates start at $84.15 per night.

Starting with mid-September Marriot is offering 20% off of the lowest rate available at thousands of hotels across the world. The offer is valid for stays of at least two nights over the weekend (Thursday to Sunday) and is good for travel between September 25 and December 13. Which means now you can stay in places you only dreamed of before. Stay at JW Marriot Cancun for $199 a night (down from $249) !!!

But I might be biased when I recommend Cancun as one of the best year round destinations for those who love to stay on the beach or practice water sports. You really don’t need to believe me though. This article from Los Angeles Times gives a lot of detailed information about practicing water sports in Cancun.

Other offers

Should you prefer to not worry about booking the hotel and flight separately then you can look into the Cancun Vacation Packages. They often include not only the flight and accommodation but also quite a lot of services and if you manage to grab an all inclusive deal and stick within the resort you won’t need to worry about spending too much money on vacation.

But if you prefer to look for cheap hotels in Cancun luck is on your side. This time of the year is perfect for those who travel on a budget; Cancun is a well known destination for budget travelers and during fall the prices are lower anyway. As for flights to Cancun , there are plenty of airlines connecting the resorts area with cities all over the US so you really don’t need to worry about finding the cheapest deal.

The alternative

If you’ve already been to Cancun or spending time on the beach is not exactly your idea of a fun vacation, then fear not for there are some incredible places to spend a vacation this time of the year. USA Today lists the top fall destinations for 2009 which includes are very appealing offer in Orlando at Hyatt Regency which runs a special offer from September 8 to December 18: book four nights at $149 per night and receive an upgrade, breakfast, and the fourth night’s stay free.

Goa is one of the most popular vacation destinations in India. The beautiful beaches, the tropical climate and the almost western-like feel makes Goa easy to handles for newcomers and a lovely place to plan an affordable holiday.

Compared to other parts of India (and most of Asia), getting to Goa and staying here might seem expensive. But when you compared the prices to the European hotspots, Goa is still a cheap destination (plus you really cannot go to the beach in October in Europe and hope to catch a lovely tan, right?).

Vacation packages

Particularly if you travel outside the high season, there’s not much need to find all inclusive vacation packages for your Goa getaway. However, if you plan to travel from November to March or during the monsoon season (when some hotels are closed), it’s better to opt for a worry-free package which includes the flight, accommodation and everything you need within the resort.

If you decide to visit Goa during the low season, you can easily book the flights and accommodation independently. While Goa is served by an airport, it receives mostly domestic flights, so you are better of flying to Mumbai instead. Cheap flights to India aren’t very hard to find. Once you’ve landed in Mumbai, take a connecting flight (on a low-cost carrier) to Goa.

Cheap hotels in Goa are easy to find regardless of when you plan to spend the vacation here. And they get even cheaper during the off season. You can easily find a lovely guesthouse or even resort which is located close to the beach and staying there won’t break your budget.

Events and Festivals in Goa in October

The State of Goa is home to many events year-round, which celebrate public holidays, Hindu celebrations and even Christian events.

The Festival of Nine Nights (Navratri) is celebrated in late September and is a Hindu celebration. It includes praying, fasting and traditional folk dances.

Fama de Menino Jesus is celebrated in the Colva area in early October. A parade is held in which a statue of baby Jesus is worshiped.

Dussehra (or Dharotsav) is a Hindu festival which starts on the first day of the Hindu month of Ashvina. It celebrates the triumph of good over evil. The highlight of the festival is he burning of the effigy of the demon king, Ravana. The festival is mostly celebrated at the work place; employees decorate the tools and machineries with flowers.

The Festival of Lights (Diwali) is another very important festival which celebrates the victory of Good over Evil. At the home of the worshipers, lamps are lit in the morning and evening.

Places to stay

If you plan to visit Goa during one of the major festivals, make sure to book the accommodation in advice. October is still a low-season month though so there should be a lot of affordable places to choose from.

Anjunapalms Guesthouse : is located 10 minutes away from Anjuna Beach, in a typical Goan village. Airport and train transfers are available for a fee. The deluxe private ensuite room is equipped with AC, TV and wi-fi. Rates start at $4.40 per person per night in a twin private room.

Tropicano Beach Resort : is a small beach resort located close to Candolim beach (just 5 minutes walk). All rooms have ensuite bathroom and some are equipped with refrigerators. Rates start at $5.50 per person per night in a double bed private room.

Green Leaf House : is located close to Candolim beach, as well as to restaurants and bars. All rooms have private bathroom, small kitchen (not equipped) and a private terrace. Rates start at $4.40 per person per night in a twin private room.

La Ben Resort : is located along the South Goa shore, close to the beach. All rooms have private bathrooms (European-style) and lockers. The resort also offers a roof top bar and a restaurant. Breakfast is included in the room price. Rates start at $15 per person per night in a double room.

Agonda Beach Huts : is located on Agonda beach in South Goa. All huts are equipped with private bathroom and have running water. Room rates start at $8.80 per person per night in a double room with bathroom ensuite.

Florida Keys is an archipelago of about 1,700 islands located off the southern coast of Florida. It’s a very popular travel destination year round, although between June and November it’s quite wet and tropical storms are common. The islands are popular among tourists for their natural beauty and the wildlife which can be seen here.

Biscayne National Park, the largest marine national park in the US, protects sections of the Biscayne Bay, including several Florida Keys. It’s an incredible place to spend some relaxing time or explore the outdoors. There are no entrance fees.

Budgeting

The majority of low-cost accommodation can be found on places like Key Largo and Key West, which are very popular among tourists. But with some luck and especially during the low season, you might be able to find some cheap hotels in Florida Keys which are located on smaller islands.

However, it’s probably best to look for a Florida vacation package since you’ll be able to save some money on both flight and accommodation. And typically, during the low season there are plenty of deals available which make a package even more affordable.

In case you prefer to book the flight separately (or happen to have some miles saved), then you should know that the closest international airport to Florida Keys is Miami International Airport. Flights to Miami are cheap and easy to find year-round so you shouldn’t have to search for too long for the best option.

What to do in Florida Keys during the low-season

If traveling to Florida Keys in October you really need to pick a place (or several) to check out as events and festivals are in full swing on many islands at about the same time.

On the first Thursday of each month, Caroline Street Art & Design District presents an evening of open houses (from 6 to 9 p.m.). In October, first Thursday falls on the 1st. Entrance is free and those heading to the area will be delighted with art, great restaurants and coffee shops.

Those interested in fishing competition should head to Key Largo between October 2 and October 4 when the Mercury Baybone Celebrity Tournament takes place. The money paid for the permits to catch fish is donated for cystic fibrosis research.

Or you can head to the Lower Keys on October 3 for the Artists In Paradise Presents Walk on Winn Dixie. From 7 to 9 p.m., anyone can walk through the galleries and stores, while enjoying live music and good food.

Between October 23 and November 1, Key West is home to the 31st Annual Fantasy Fest which features street fairs, costumed competitions and a grand parade. The beginning of the fest is marked by the Goombay Festival which showcases Caribbean art, food, music and crafts (October 23 to 24).

Key Largo is home to the Key Largo Pirates Festival from October 23 to 25, featuring costume contests, rum tasting, thieves market, pirate shows and many more.

Where to stay

The prices in the area are not exactly low but at this time of the year you might be lucky to find some deals. However, don’t bet on very cheap rates as the festivals draw a lot of tourists willing to spend money (including on accommodation).

Eden House : is located in the historic old town Key West, close to Duval Street. The hotel offers a heated pool, hammocks, garden café and elevated sundeck. The hotel is currently running some special offers including: stay six nights get the seventh free, or say three nights and get the forth night at half price. Packages are also available. Standard daily rates start at $160 per night for a small deluxe room.

Key Largo Resort at Manatee Bay : is located about 500 yards from the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. It’s also close to Miami International Airport (56 miles). The resort offers 100 rooms and a restaurant on site. Each room features: TV, free wi-fi, fridge, MW, coffee maker, iron board and hair dryer. Standard rates start at $139 per night for a room with garden view.

Ramada Limited – Key Largo : is located only 55 minutes from Miami Airport. The resort has some special offers including stay 2 nights for $299 and get the 3rd night free. It’s a good choice for those who want to do some scuba diving or take tours in the area. Standard room rates start at $85 per night (free breakfast and free wi-fi).

Island Bay Resort : is located between Key Largo and Islamorada and is perfect for those who want to relax or practice water sports. There are 10 cottages available, each with BBQ grill, patio table and wood deck. The low season rates start at $129 per night (2 persons) or $278 (4 persons).

Best Western Hibiscus Motel is located in Key West and offers complimentary breakfast, a pool for the guests to use and high speed internet. All rooms are equipped with coffee maker, fridge and hair dryer. Room rates range between $89 and $179 depending on the day of the week. Highest rates are always during the weekend.

While most of the travelers are still scared that the recession might put their travel plans on hold, there are some categories of travelers who don’t need to worry about traveling or the price they pay for a room. They actually help hotels boost the room rates. We are talking, of course, about celebrities, diplomats and pretty much all of the world’s millionaires. Don’t you just “love” them along with their extravagances?!

According to this article published by The Wall Street Journal the world’s most renowned luxury hotels have no issues filling their rooms and even double their room rates.

Luxury suites prices

According to a survey by Wealth Bulletin, the most expensive hotel room in 2009 can be found at the President Wilson Hotel in Geneva, Switzerland. Price tag? $65,000 for its four-bedroom penthouse.

Last year’s winner, the Four Seasons Hotel in New York came only in second with a price tag of “just” $35,000 for its Ty Warner Penthouse. And yes, the price is $1,000 higher than last year. This beautiful nine-room suite comes with an indoor-outdoor Zen garden and a private spa room.

One of the new entries in the list includes the Westin Excelsior in Rome. The price is $31,000 per night for the Villa La Cupola Suite. You can relax in a Jacuzzi, be marveled by the stained glass windows and enjoy the beautiful view from the terraces overlooking Via Veneto.

Another expensive suite can be found at Park Hyatt Vendôme in Paris. The Imperial Suite costs only $20,000 per night and also comes with an in-suite spa.

The alternative

For those of us which get a headache only looking at these prices there’s some good news. The hostels in these beautiful cities are not only cheap but provide enough facilities for the travelers. In New York, bed prices start at $12 per night, in Rome at $1 per night (seriously!) and in Paris at $15 per night. Even budget hotels can be found for decent prices. As it happens, the recession forces most hoteliers to drop the room rates (but, of course, the luxury hotels cater for a different clientele so they did exactly the opposite).

You might want to throw a sauna or massage in your vacation itinerary though. That’s simple and doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg either. Look up some gyms (medium priced) and see what services they offer. Many offer the possibility to purchase a daily access card which comprises quite a lot of services.

Dublin has always been a popular destination for the Europeans looking for a quick weekend getaway. The city is compact and can easily be tackled during couple of days, which is great news as Dublin tends to be a bit on the expensive side.

Fall is a great season to visit Ireland in general and Dublin in particular. There are many festivals going on and the weather is still nice so that visitors can enjoy the days out in the city. Just remember to pack a jacket for those cold evenings and mornings.

Vacation packages vs independent traveling

If your plans include, for example, checking out the fall foliage in several European countries then it’s a good idea to look into booking a European vacation package . These typically include the round trip flight and accommodation. There are plenty of special deals available this time of the year, as both airlines and hotels struggle to keep the business going during the low season.

If you don’t have too much time to spare or prefer to spend your vacation only in Dublin, then you can try the independent traveling way. Cheap flights to Dublin are easy to find no matter if you fly from the States or from other cities in Europe. Many low-cost carriers serve this airport so if you are already in Europe make sure to check out their special offers.

Although Dublin is considered an expensive city, finding cheap hotels in Dublin can be an easy thing. First thing you need to know is that it’s easier to find cheap hotels during the weekdays than during the weekends and you can forget about cheap accommodation during the popular festivals. The best part though is that the city center is compact so chances are you’ll find some affordable hotels located close to the sights.

Festivals in Dublin This Fall

As we are writing this article Dublin Fringe Festival is in full swing so, unfortunately, you’ll miss the event this year but you can surely plan to be in Dublin next fall (promise?).

Bulmer’s International Comedy Festival is also well under way and will end on September 27. It has become one of the top five comedy festivals in the world so if you love to laugh (and who doesn’t?) don’t miss this event. It takes place at various venues across the city.

Let’s Walk and Talk: Irish Revolution and the French Connection is a walking tour of Dublin which can be experienced on September 25 as part of the Culture Night. This interested can meet at Barnardo Square, near the City Hall at 5 p.m.

The Antiques & Collectors Fair takes place on September 27 at the Clontarf Castle Hotel. Even if you are not a collector, it’s definitely worth it to spend some time checking out the beautiful coins, stamps, furniture and other interesting items.

Darklight Festival 2009 takes place between October 8 and 11 at the Dublin City Centre. It’s the premier festival for filmmakers, animators and artists and this year marks the 10th anniversary.

Places to stay

Whether you come to Dublin for a short weekend getaway or to check out one of the festivals, you’ll need a place to stay. Start by looking at budget hotels and guesthouses located close to the city center. You might be lucky enough to find some good deals.

Avalon House: offers free airport transfer, free wi-fi, free breakfast, free maps, free walking tours and free cinema nights. It’s one of the best rated budget accommodations in the entire city. You won’t get bored here as there are plenty of activities you can do in the hostel: play pool, table football or try your luck at some playstation games. Room rates start at €42 per person per night in a double room with bathroom ensuite. Dorm rates start at €12.60 per night in a 12-bed dorm.

Clifden Guesthouse : is located in a 200 old house right in the city center of Dublin. It offers 15 rooms with ensuite bathrooms, phone, TV and coffee maker. Rates start at €31 per person per night in a double room.

Abbey Court : is a budget accommodation located in the city center. There are both private rooms and dorms available. There’s a full restaurant on site and the wi-fi is also free in the hotel. The guests can use the common kitchen. Rates start at €37 per person per night in a double room with bathroom ensuite. The bed rates in a 12-bed dorm start at €10.50 per night.

Abraham House : is located in the heart of Dublin, close to the main shopping street. All rooms are with ensuite bathroom and there is free wi-fi within the hotel. The guests can use the common kitchen and there are some drinks and snacks machines available at all. The rates start at €31.50 per person per night in a double room.

Ashfield House : is in a central location and is ideal for the budget travelers. There’s free wi-fi if you travel with your laptop or you can use the computers for a small fee. There’s a common kitchen the guests can use. Maps and guides are available at the reception. The breakfast is included in the room price. The room rates start at €26.20 per person per night in a double room with bathroom ensuite. The bed rates in a 6-bed dorm start at €16.80 per night.

The entire Caribbean is an incredible place to spend a family vacation. But the high season is quite expensive and many families prefer cheaper places to head to. If you happen to have some spare time in October, you can pack your bags and head to Runaway Bay, Jamaica. All-inclusive rates and kids program at Pebbles Resort from $622 per person (7-nights accommodation included)!!!

But I might be biased when I recommend Jamaica (or even the entire Caribbean area) for a family vacation. Many resorts are geared towards families and there are always a lot of interesting things to do for the kids, which allows the parents to spend some quality time together. You don’t have to believe me though. This article in Chicago Tribune also recommends the Caribbean as a great place to take the kids on a vacation.

More types of deals in Jamaica

Caribbean vacation packages are among the most-sought after types of vacations, be it for families, couples or a girls-only vacation. The beautiful islands, the crystal-clear waters and the incredible scenery offer everyone a chance to relax and get out of the daily routine.

If you don’t manage to find a package to match your criteria, you can always build your own package by booking the flight and vacation separately. There are two airports in Jamaica which receive flights from Europe and North America. Finding cheap flights to Jamaica is not hard, especially if you plan to travel during the low-season, when the prices are at their lowest. Alternatively, you can fly into Puerto Rico and catch a connecting flight from there.

When it comes to finding a place to stay, although Jamaica is a rather small island there are quite a lot of hotels and resorts here. Finding cheap hotels in Jamaica is easy if you know where to look. Ditch the famous resort chains and look into budget accommodation within the cities. Negril is more relaxed while Montego Bay is where the majority of tourists head to.

Other places to go

But the Caribbean is not limited to Jamaica. Actually, there are endless possibilities to choose from and it usually depends on your allocated budget. The Dominican Republic is a good choice for families and deals can be found easily. You can stay in Punta Cana for 7 nights and pay $861 per person (RT flight from New York included) .

For the kids Disneyland is a magical place which must be experienced at least once in their childhood. For the adults, it’s a place where they can be kids again and act like ones if they want to. Regardless of your age, you’ll probably get hooked and want to spend a longer vacation here.

And in case you want to check out the surrounding cities, Los Angeles is definitely worth a visit. Chinatown is known as one of the most authentic of Chinatowns on the west coast, while the beaches are part of the city’s soul.

Family vacation packages

Typically, family vacation packages are created for places such as Disneyland. So why not benefit from them? If you are planning to take the kids to visit the park, then look into these deals. The packages comprise the round trip flight, accommodation and often some extras (like discounted theme park tickets).

If you managed to save some miles or you prefer to explore the surrounding areas, then look into booking the flight and accommodation separately. Disneyland is technically located in Anaheim, which is just 26 miles from Los Angeles. Since Los Angles is served by a variety of airports, you’ll always find some sort of a deal available. However, you probably have the most chances to find cheap flights into LAX rather than other airports.

With the flight secured, it’s time to find cheap hotels in Disneyland . As you might expect, the cheap hotels are located in the surrounding cities, Anaheim included, rather than in Disneyland. But don’t put off the rooms located within the resort especially if you plan to travel outside the peak season.

Festivals and Events at Disneyland This Autumn

Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort lasts between September 25 and October 31. The Main Street will be home to the Pumpkin Festival, while The Haunted Mansion will be transformed into a Tim Burton ‘Nightmare Before Christmas’ theme. For the first time this year special Halloween Fireworks will be on display. And kids can enjoy the new Halloween Space Mountain.

October 18 marks an important day for those who are into charity walks. The annual CHOC (Children’s Hospital of Orange County) 5K walk takes place at Disneyland Park and Disney’s California Adventure Park (before the parks are open for the day).

Where to stay

Whether you come to Disneyland to spend your vacation in the dream land or you plan to visit the near-by places, you need a place to stay. And, ideally, it should be located close to everything and offer good rates. Here are some ideas to get you started, all places being located very close to the parks.

Alpine Inn : is located just 100 yards from the South Entrance of Disneyland. All rooms have microwave, fridge and iron boards. The rates start at $54 per night for a king size room (up to 2 people) in the off-season.

TownePlace Suites Anaheim : is located close to the park and offers free wi-fi within the entire hotel. Last minute weekend deals are available from $80 per night. The Weekend Disneyland Magical Escape in Anaheim package starts at $453 and includes 2-nights (all inclusive) stay in a studio and two Disney Park Hopper passes for two days.

Hotel Pepper Tree : is an extended stay boutique hotel located near Disneyland. The typical Disneyland package includes: 3-nights accommodation (for 2), two-day Disneyland Park Hopper passes (for 2) and complimentary breakfast. The rates are $151 per adult and $131 per child. Wedding and golf packages are also available.

Candy Cane Inn : is located 250 yards from the main gate to Disneyland. It offers 171 standard and deluxe rooms, all equipped with fridge, coffee maker and cable TV. The hotel offers shuttle services to the Disneyland Resort. There’s a fitness room the guests can use (7 a.m. to 10 a.m.) and the wi-fi is free of charge. Standard room rates start at $99 per night.

Staybridge Suites Anaheim – Resort Area : is located in the heart Anaheim, close to Disneyland. There are 143 rooms available, and the largest of them can accommodate 8 persons. Each room is equipped with full size kitchen. Breakfast is free of charge. Room rates start at $86 per night.

Walt Disney World is one of those magical places where adults start to act like children… and children absolutely love all the things to do and see. Autumn is a very good time to visit Disney World as the weather is great and the prices are low. Plus, there are loads of events to choose from for visitors of all ages.

Disney World Vacation Packages

You’ve probably heard it a million times by now, but during recession, the hotels are trying to attract tourists. And their weapons? Free nights, theme park tickets included in the packages and many more. Therefore, it’s not a bad idea to start your search with the Orlando Vacation Packages . Typically, the packages comprise the round trip flight, accommodation and some sort of extras.

There’s also the possibility to book your flight and accommodation separately. The airport of choice will be Orlando International Airport (MCO), or as the locals love to call it, Mickey’s Corporate Office. Joke aside flights to Orlando (or to Mickey and Company) are easy to find. If you happen to fly often with AirTran Airways, Delta Air Lines or Southwest Airlines, try to look on their websites first and then look on the discounted websites.

With the flight secured, it’s time to look for a place to stay. In general, the hotels within the resort are a little more expensive than those located outside the park. So if you are after cheap hotels in Disney World shop around and see whether the extras offered by the hotels within the resort compensate for the room rate. Also, remember that most hotels outside the park offer complimentary shuttle to Disney World.

Autumn Events at Disney World

No matter when you decide to visit Disney World there will always be something fun to do… whether you bring the kids or not.

Halloween at Disney World started in early September and lasts until November 1. On designated days there are parades at 8:15 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. as well as fireworks at 9:30 p.m. The event comprises several activities such as Mickey’s Halloween Party, Haunted Hayride at Fort Wilderness or Haunted Pirates Cruise.

September 25 marks the start of the 14th Annual Epcot International Food and Wine Festival. The event lasts until November 8 and comprises market places where you can try foods from all over the world, dining events, and a variety of other interesting (and delicious) activities.

October 17 marks the Orlando International Dragon Boat Festival at Downtown Disney. Colorful boats compete for the joy of the spectators.

Where to stay

It really doesn’t mater if you come to Disney World for the theme parks, events or just for the atmosphere because you will need a place to stay regardless of what you are up to. There are a lot of places to choose from so it’s quite hard to recommend only some of them. But, we are trying so here is a list to get you started:

Extended Stay Deluxe Orlando-Universal Studios : is an excellent choice if you plan to stay for a longer time. The suites are equipped with refrigerator, microwave, and stovetop. There’s a one-time $4.99 fee for the wireless internet. The guests can use the swimming pool and the fitness center. Continental breakfast is free. The rates for a studio suite start at $55 per night, while deluxe studios start at $60 per night.

Monumental Hotel Orlando : is located close to Seaworld and Aquatica, as well as shopping and dining. The guests can use the outdoor pool. All rooms have AC and coffee makers. Rates start at $62.10 per night for a standard double room.

Baymont Inn & Suites Florida Mall/Orlando : is located 3 blocks from Florida Mall and quite close to the theme parks. Breakfast and wi-fi are free. Guests can use the pool and the gym. Room rates start at $56.24 per night for a 1 king bed room.

Radisson Hotel Orlando-Lake Buena Vista : is located just a quarter mile from Disney World. Guests can use the pool and the fitness center. Special deals rates start at $89.30 per night for a room. Standard rates start at $114 for a double room with breakfast included.

Fairfield Inn & Suites Orlando International Drive : is located close to all the attractions in Orlando. The hotel offers free wi-fi. Last minute weekends deals available (starting at $69 per night). Standard room rates start at $89 per night.

For the first time in over a year, the bottom of the recession seems to be in sight. According to an article published by BBCCaribbean.com , lately inquires about Caribbean travel had increased and the European stock markets show signs of recovery.

With the profits declining all over the world, the International Monetary Fund predicated that, in the Caribbean, the tourism revenues would fall by 15% this year. Last year the drop was 18% and the future didn’t look too bright. The decline in tourist arrivals and revenue also leads to delays in opening new hotels and, even worse, some hotels in the area were forced to shut their doors. The country in the English-speaking Caribbean most affected by the recession has been Jamaica. On the other hand, Cuba has handled the recession well and received record visitors this year.

While hoteliers are forced to cut prices and add free services to entire potential tourists, the British government added another tax on flights in November last year, which also influenced the number of travelers choosing to spend their vacation in the Caribbean. By comparison, since the US requires its citizens to have a passport when visiting the Caribbean, there has been a loss in revenue of over $100m.

New flights available to the Caribbean

But despite the still gloomy economy, several airlines have announced new flights into the Caribbean. AirTran Airways will offer flights to Bahamas and Aruba from several American cities. It is interesting to see if new flights would influence the current prices. Those who plan to save money on flights to Caribbean, typically fly into one of the major hubs such as Puerto Rico, Bahamas and St. Maarten. These large islands offer the possibility to choose a cheap connecting flight for the reminder of the trip and, of course, there are also other ways to travel (by ferry, for example).

The peak tourist season in the Caribbean starts before Christmas and lasts right after New Years, but the high season extends until end of April. There are also some Caribbean nations which are located outside the hurricane belt and which are great vacation destinations year round.

However, the recent good signs coming from the Western European economies and stock markets seem to offer the Caribbean hoteliers a breath of fresh air and the hope for a better season.