Hawaii Dream Vacations by Abby

In today’s crazy times, finding the best value and "bang for your buck" is more important than ever.  But so is the need for some much need rest and relaxation!

Although no one can deny that money is tighter these days, a vacation to Paradise doesn’t have to cost a fortune.  The tips below will allow you to stretch your well-earned dollars farther.

• Avoid flying Friday through Sunday.  By scheduling your departure and return flights midweek, you could save hundreds of dollars in airfare alone.

• If possible, take your vacation in the fall or early spring.  In Hawaii, the most expensive time to travel is between December 15th and January 5th.  Airfare prices during this timeframe are usually more than double what they are in the fall and spring months, and hotel rates are significantly more expensive as well.  The summer months, from June through mid-August, although not as overpriced as the winter holidays, are still more expensive than the rest of the year.

• Look for special promotions with added values.  Many hotels will offer a free night if you stay a certain length of time, daily buffet breakfast for two, resort credits, and other complimentary ammenities.  These are always a better value than booking the room only at the standard rate.

• Work personally with a professional travel consultant who will be able to customize a package for you based on your specific travel preferences and budget, and to guarantee that you’re getting the best value out there.  Travel professionals are constantly informed of the latest promotions and most truly want you to have the best vacation for the best price.

• Book your airfare, hotel, and transportation as a package.  Travel wholesalers frequently offer special discounts if you book several components of your vacation together, which usually costs less total than if you were to book each part separately.

• Purchase a vacation package with a flexible payment plan.  Depending on how the various components of the trip are put together, many vacation packages only require a minimum deposit to book, with the final payment due anywhere from 75 to 35 days prior to your departure.  This may allow you to invest in a vacation that you may not have originally thought you were able to afford.

• Rent a car and explore the islands on your own.  Hawaii has very reasonable rental car rates, and for about $30 a day you can go where you want to and spend a day at your leisure and experience the islands like a "local."

• Don’t be afraid to splurge every once in a while!  While the $8 Mai Tais may not necessarily be worth the price tag, a $200 helicopter ride over an active volcano will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.  Some experiences truly are worth saving for.

So what are you waiting for?  That dream vacation really is possible, even today, with a little extra planning and some flexibility.

Abby Lapointe
Personal Travel Consultant
abby@hawaii-aloha.com
808-237-5263
800-843-8771 ext 23