Visiting the Galapagos Islands, the archipelago that inspired Charles Darwin to develop the theory of evolution, is a truly riveting experience. There are few other places on earth where you can get so close to a vast number of endemic species in their natural habitat. From exploring dramatic, unspoiled landscapes to learning about Charles Darwin’s fascinating discoveries, touring the Galapagos Islands is an adventure that would make any passionate traveler weak in the knees.

Planning a Galapagos vacation can be overwhelming because of the sheer variety of options available. From helping you decide between day trips and cruises to deciphering the categories of boats and uncovering those that offer the best deals, the following info will help you plan an enjoyable Galapagos vacation without breaking the bank.

Which Is Better – Day Trips or Cruises?

One of the factors that hold many travelers back from visiting Ecuador’s Enchanted Islands is cost. A cruise package can cost upwards of a several thousand dollars per person, depending on the class to which the boat belongs.

In order to save money, some budget-minded travelers fly to the Galapagos Islands, stay in a hotel, and book day trips. Although this option will cost you less, you won’t see and experience nearly as much as you would on a cruise. The cruises take you to areas off of the beaten path, such as uninhabited islands that are far removed from the main ports.

If your hope is to do as much wildlife watching as possible during your Galapagos vacation, then taking a cruise is the best choice. If just the thought of having to stay on a boat for several days makes you seasick, however, then staying on land and booking day trips may be a viable alternative. Just bear in mind that seasickness can usually be controlled with over-the-counter motion sickness medication.

Why Tourist and Tourist Superior Boats Should Be Avoided

There is no official classification system for ships in the Galapagos, so the information you’ll find about boat categories will vary somewhat. Roughly, the boat categories in the Galapagos Islands are tourist, tourist superior, first class, deluxe, and luxury.

Boats in the tourist and tourist superior category should generally be avoided. Tourist and tourist superior boats lack creature comforts and tend to be very cramped. Naturally, on a Galapagos cruise, you will spend most of your time on board, and spending time on a crummy boat will make for a crummy vacation.

Tourist class boats are always on the older side, so it’s more likely that they’ll deal with mechanical problems, have rat infestations, or in the worst case scenario, be prone to sinking. Furthermore, the quality of the naturalist guides is far lower on tourist and tourist superior boats. Most of them do not speak English very well and have little scientific knowledge. Having a knowledgeable, bilingual naturalist guide on your Galapagos boat can make all the difference in your Galapagos experience.

First class boats have larger cabins and generally include air conditioning. You can also choose between different bed types, such as bunk, twin, and double beds. First class boats are usually the best choice for budget travelers.

Some travelers may even be able to stomach a tourist superior boat, but just think – you’re going to be stuck on the boat for six to ten days, so you’ll probably want to choose a boat that’s relatively comfortable and safe. You’ll also be eating the food served on the boat for several days, so it’s worthwhile to find a boat that serves decent meals.

Why You Should Book the Best Cruise You Can Afford

As with anything else, you get what you pay for on a Galapagos cruise. Book a cruise with the best cruise you can afford so your Galapagos dream vacation doesn’t become an utter nightmare.

Luxury boats are the cream of the crop when it comes to Galapagos cruises. Luxury boats offer the most amenities and have spacious cabins and excellent cuisine. The bilingual natural guides on board luxury boats tend to be the most knowledgeable.

The price for a cruise can range anywhere from $120 per night, per person to $1000 per night, per person. These prices do not include the tips for the crew and guide.

Are Large Boats Better Than Small Boats?

You can choose from large cruise ships, small yachts, and anything in between when booking a cruise to the Galapagos. Ultimately, the choice between large boats and small boats boils down to personal preference.
Large cruise ships typically offer more amenities than the smaller boats, and they also have more activities planned. Because they are high powered, the larger ships are able to go to areas that are farther off the beaten path, such as the west side of Isabela Island.

On the other hand, small boats are more cramped and it’s easier to get seasick on them because they are more sensitive to the conditions of the ocean. The advantages of riding a smaller boat, however, are that they are more intimate, you can get to know your fellow passengers better, and the schedule is more flexible. In contrast, the schedules on larger boats are more rigid.

The Best Time to Visit the Galapagos Islands

The peak travel season in the Galapagos runs from mid-June to early September and mid-December to mid-January. Avoid the peak travel season if you want to take advantage of last minute travel deals and other attractive bargains.

The Galapagos Islands have an abundance of wildlife and mild weather year round, so they can be visited at any time of the year. Just bear in mind that December through May is the rainy season. In addition, from June to November, the water and weather are colder because of the Humboldt Current. Scuba divers consider this period to be the best season for diving because of the wide variety of marine life that can be seen underwater.

September is a great time for budget travelers to take a Galapagos cruise because many of the boats offer discounts, such as a cruise package for two people for the price of one. Just keep in mind that the seas are at their roughest in September.

Have you ever been to the Galapagos Islands? If you have any tips that could help your fellow travelers plan a fun and affordable Galapagos vacation, please share them in the comments!

Are you interested in planning a trip to DC but uncertain about whether you can afford it or not? You’ll be relieved to find out that DC is no money-guzzling city of sin like Las Vegas. You can arrive in DC with just enough cash for transportation, food, and lodging, yet manage to enjoy an action-packed vacation.

Contrary to stereotypes, DC is home to a whole lot more than Capitol Hill and lobbying firms. Brimming with free events, museums, and monuments, DC is a hot spot for budget travelers. This list of 10 free things to do in DC is sure to keep you busy if you plan a getaway to our nation’s capital.

1. Natural marsh, water plants and flowers, and bird watching in DC? No, we’re not joking. DC’s Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens are home to the last natural marsh in DC. If you’re itching to escape from the concrete jungle for a quick breather, visit the gardens free of charge. They offer a glimpse of what DC looked like before European settlers arrived.

2. Remember that hair-raising film, The Exorcist? The staircase the priest fell down during the climax of the film is located in Georgetown, Washington DC. Relive that spooky scene by visiting the 75-step staircase, which connects M Street and Prospect Street. Other (less disturbing) movies that have been filmed in the posh neighborhood of Georgetown include True Lies, The Jackal, and Transformers.

3. Every year, on the Tuesday before Halloween, thousands of spectators gather in Dupont Circle to watch a drag race. No, not that kind of drag race. A drag queen race. Braving the cold weather, elaborately dressed drag queens donning high heels race down 17th street. The race starts at 9pm, so if you want to get a prime viewing spot, make sure to get there a couple hours in advance. It gets very crowded because people flock to see these drag queens in their best gowns (or lack thereof), even when it’s rainy and freezing outside. In At past races, DC drag queens have dressed up to resemble a variety of familiar faces, from Britney Spears to the hosts of The View.

4. You can’t go wrong with free food and free art. From April through June and September through November on the third Friday of the month, Galleries 1054 in Georgetown’s Canal Square hosts opening receptions from 6pm to 8pm complete with catering from Georgetown’s Sea Catch Restaurant.

5. Few free museums in the world compare to the fascinating, all-embracing Smithsonian museums in DC. The Smithsonian is the largest museum complex in the world and features tons of world class exhibitions. The Smithsonian museums are free of charge every day of the year. Favorites include the African Art Museum, American History Museum, National Design Museum, and the Air and Space Museum.

6. In the summer, jazz lovers flock to the National Gallery of Art’s Sculpture Garden on Friday evenings to enjoy free, live jazz concerts. These free jazz concerts, known as “Jazz in the Garden,” feature jazz acts from around the world. The adjacent Pavilion Café serves creative cuisine and beverages, which are regrettably not free of charge.

7. If you’ve got a green thumb and an urge to escape the city smog for a moment, don’t miss a visit to the National Arboretum. There are over 400 acres of land in the National Arboretum, where you’ll find innumerable varieties of plants, trees, and shrubs. To conclude a long, tiresome day of free sightseeing, why not plan a peaceful picnic surrounded by beautiful greenery at the National Arboretum?

8. The Arlington National Cemetery is a must-see for anyone visiting DC. It is located in Arlington, on the other side of the Potomac River. Highlights of taking a stroll through the Arlington National Cemetery include watching the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and visiting the graves of John F. Kennedy and family. There are over 300,000 people buried at this serene cemetery.

9. Check out the National Theatre on Monday nights, from October to April, to see local comedians, musicians, dancers, and singers in action. The 6pm event is free of charge, but tickets must be obtained approximately thirty minutes in advance of the performance.

10. The National Archives house over three billion documents and continue to grow by billions of pieces each year. Everything from the original Declaration of Independence to captured German records from World War II can be found at the National Archives. The Exhibition Hall is open from 10am to 7pm, giving the greater public access to documents that helped set up America as a democracy in 1774.

1. Cuba

Although Americans are technically banned from traveling to Cuba, there are plenty of opportunities for licensed travel that enable Americans to set foot on the forbidden isle. During the Bush administration, almost all travel to Cuba for educational, “people-to-people,” and socially-responsible purposes, was shut down. Under the Obama administration, these travel restrictions have been lifted, allowing Americans to travel to Cuba again without worrying about facing criminal charges and fines.

Popular travel destinations in Cuba include Havana, the historically-rich capital frozen in time, where you can explore museums and charming eateries in the old town, mingle with the locals as you take a stroll along the malecón (a waterside boulevard), and watch dance troupes and salsa bands perform in the evenings.

Home to a lengthy network of caves, scenic cliffs, and lush tobacco fields, Viñales is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is famed for its unspoiled natural beauty. Santa Clara, although not so memorable as a city, is the resting ground of revolutionary Che Guevara’s remains. Visitors can learn more about Che Guevara’s life and legacy at the museum that’s adjacent to the mausoleum.

Organizations that offer tours to Cuba include Global Exchange, which organizes socially-responsible and educational “Cuba Reality Tours,” and Common Ground Educational Travel Services, a travel agency that helps groups and individuals arrange travel to Cuba for research and conferences.

2. Vietnam

With a history spanning over 4000 years, stunning geography, and a diverse culture steeped in tradition, Vietnam is starting to share the spotlight with more popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia, such as Thailand and Indonesia. Having survived colonialism, communism, and one war after another, the Vietnamese are understandably tough-skinned yet are warm and gracious to tourists.

If you want to made-to-order clothing for a fraction of what it would cost back home, don’t miss a visit to Hoi An, a beautiful coastal city that’s home to between 300 and 500 tailors. Visit Hanoi, the country’s capital, to pay respects at the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum, a truly riveting experience. A communist revolutionary and former Prime Minister, Ho Chi Minh, affectionately referred to as Uncle Ho by his compatriots, has achieved cult-like status in Vietnam.

To escape the throng of motorbikes and stresses of the city, head to the Mekong Delta in southern Vietnam, which is dotted with sleepy farming villages and iconic rice fields. In the former imperial capital of Hué, you can explore everything from palaces and pagodas to temples and tombs.

3. Colombia

When most people think of traveling to the Caribbean, countries like the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Aruba come to mind. Their drug-addled South American neighbor, Colombia, rarely makes it on any beach lover’s radar, and that’s unfortunate, considering how much potential Colombia has as a beach destination. Colombia’s reputation as a violent, crime-ridden country at the center of the drug trade tends to overshadow the beauty of its stunning coastal waters and the radiance of its cultural diversity.

Earning the nickname, “the seven-colored sea,” the beautiful, multi-hued turquoise waters that surround the Colombian islands of San Andres are a haven for divers and snorkelers. Home to top-rate tourist facilities and lavish hotels, San Andres earns a spot on the hot list of Caribbean destinations.

Founded in 1533, the port of Cartagena de India is popular with tourists who want to explore its rich past and enjoy its nightlife. Cartagena beckons travelers with its old walled city, colonial charm, and the innumerable possibilities it offers for excursions to neighboring areas. A side-trip to Parque Nacional Tayrona is a must for trekking, hiking, or camping enthusiasts visiting Cartagena.

4. Albania

After years of communist rule, Albania has finally opened its doors to visitors. Tourism in Albania is still in its infancy, yet it continues to grow each year, despite the fact that Albanian authorities do very little do promote it. Albania is still relatively unspoiled by globalization and unheard of as a tourist destination. Some go as far as to call it Europe’s best kept secret.

With more than 450 miles of beach on the Mediterranean, Adriatic, and Ionian Seas, Albania is a veritable paradise for beach lovers. The beaches of Albania are untouched and lack the crowds you’ll find on other European beaches. An increasing number of tourists choose to bask on Albania’s beaches to escape the high prices of Italy and Greece.

Ksamil is a beautiful, white sand beach that looks like it was transported from the Caribbean. Only a few minutes away from Ksamil, you’ll find Butrinti, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Butrinti is home to ancient Greek ruins that are nestled in the mountainside. The Tomorri Massif and Albanian Alps offer plenty of opportunities for hiking, climbing, and mountain biking.

5. Libya

Having lifted its veil after years of international isolation, Libya is beginning to arouse the curiosity of travelers, and its well-preserved, exotic landscapes are still unknown to the average tourist. While most think of Libya as being synonymous with terrorism, the desert nation has become far safer for tourists in recent years. Libya’s designation as a state sponsor for terrorism was rescinded in 2006.

Libya doesn’t allow independent travel, and tourist facilities are not widely available, so visitors must sign up for organized tours to get around. Despite this lack of independence, tourists find themselves in awe throughout their guided explorations of Libya. The Saharan Desert makes up over 90% of Libya, and Libya’s captivating desert scenery is second-to-none when it comes to accessibility. Whether you want to ride a camel through the Akakus Mountains, surf the dunes near the Ubari Lakes, snorkel near Apollonia to view sunken remains, or explore the Roman, Greek, and Ottoman ruins and artifacts in the cosmopolitan city of Tripoli, you’ll be impressed with all that Libya has to offer, especially considering that it has only recently awaken from its slumber.

6. Guam

Known as the land “Where America’s day begins,” the US territory of Guam is the largest of the Marianas Islands in Micronesia. Although there are strip malls and even a Kmart to remind you that Guam is indeed the US of A, the island boasts plenty of uncorrupted natural beauty.

Most of the tourists that visit Guam hail from eastern Asian countries like Japan, Taiwan, and Korea, and they don’t venture too far away from the main hotel strip at Tumon Bay, besides on organized tours. The organized tours that hotels and local travel agents offer are a great way to see some of the top attractions of the island, but to get a real taste of Guam, your best bet is to rent a car and venture out into the unknown.

Rotidian Beach is a gorgeous, isolated beach where you can spend the day lounging on white sands while admiring the calm, aquamarine waters. Scuba divers can sign up for tours and dive down into the Marianas Trench, home to the deepest waters in the world. The calm, crystal-clear, and shallow waters of Guam’s beaches beckon snorkelers with their abundance of tropical fish and diverse coral reef.

Guam is great for hiking, but there are no marked trails, so you have to hike with an experienced local to avoid getting lost. Boonie Stomps are free, guided hikes organized by the Guam Department of Parks and Recreation that take you through trails ranging from easy to difficult.

To savor delectable seafood dishes and Guam’s famous red rice on a shoestring, head to the Wednesday night Chamorro Market in Agana and hit the food stalls.

7. French Guiana

Set between the Caribbean and the Amazon, French Guiana boasts a rich, diverse environment where you can observe protected species in preserved wilderness areas. Although often overlooked by travelers who come to South America, French Guiana has tons to offer those who don’t mind venturing off the beaten path. Tourist amenities are scarce in French Guiana, and prices are on the high end because it is an overseas department of France.

French Guiana is home to a colorful blend of cultures and over 31,000 square miles of virgin forest. Take a forest immersion tour to explore one of the world’s last virgin forests or a river tour to admire diverse plant and animal life while learning more about French Guiana’s indigenous and Maroon cultures during stops at waterside villages. Visit Awala-Yalimopo during turtle egg-laying season to watch leatherback turtles lay their eggs on the beach under the moonlight. To learn all you’ve ever wanted to know about satellite launching, pay a visit the Guiana Space Center. Off the coast of French Guiana are the picturesque Salvation Islands, which were once home to a famous penal colony where political prisoners were held.

8. Barrier Islands, Georgia

10 miles east of Georgia’s coastal plain are a group of some of the world’s most beautiful barrier islands. Creations of the wind, tides, and waves, the barrier islands of Georgia are constantly in a state of evolution. The barrier islands of Georgia serve as refuge for wildlife and attract scientists from around the world, who conduct marshland ecology and marine research here.

One of the highlights of taking a ferry across to visit the barrier islands in Georgia is going to Sapelo Island, the fourth-largest of Georgia’s barrier islands. Surrounded by pristine marsh, Sapelo is a magical place where you can explore the region’s history, natural beauty, and laidback lifestyle from the perspective of a local. In Sapelo’s historic Hog Hammock community, lifelong resident Maurice Bailey guides visitors on affordable, three-hour tours known as the Spirit of Sapelo tours.

Hog Hammock is owned by descendants of slaves who worked on the plantations of Sapelo over 200 years ago. Residents of this tight-knit, friendly community speak a dialect known as Geechee (a blend of African languages, French, English, and Portuguese) and continue to lead a slow, peaceful lifestyle that starkly contrasts the hustle and bustle of the mainland.

9. Slovakia

Slovakia is one of Europe’s top ski destinations, and its tourism industry has grown significantly since it achieved independence in 1993. Although prices for everything have risen in Slovakia since it joined the EU, you can still dine and travel in Slovakia for a fraction of what it would cost in Western Europe.
Slovakia is not frequently cited as a must-see tourist destination, but travelers who don’t save a slot for Slovakia in their Europe travel plans are missing out. Slovakia’s capital, Bratislava, is teeming with culture and charming cafes yet lacks the congestion and overly commercial feel of its Western European counterparts. Outside of the city, you can explore the ancient log cottages of Vlkolínec, ski in Orava, admire the remarkable hill-top ruins of the Spis Castle, the largest in Slovakia, or climb the alpine peaks of the Tatras.

10. Greenland

The biggest island on the planet with the sparsest of populations, Greenland is home to raw, unadulterated natural surroundings and a unique blend of Danish and Inuit culture. Greenland is remote and tranquil, and its culture is largely uninfluenced by globalization. South Greenland’s dramatic landscapes are famous for their emerald green hills, icy backdrops, and Viking ruins, while east Greenland preserves traditional Inuit culture.

More than three-fourths of Greenland is made of ice, and visitors can take dogsled or kayak tours through fjordlands to admire serene landscapes consisting of mountains, icebergs, and islands. There are few roads in Greenland, so to explore the wild you have to travel in a helicopter or boat.

Italy – starting at $799 until February 28 – Explore Sorrento’s ancient beauty with the Dooley Vacations Amalfi Coast Package.

Starwood Family Travel Deals – Book before 30 April 2010 and your kids can eat for free and you get 50% off the second room at participating hotels and resorts across Europe, Africa and the Middle East.

$327 & up — Royal Carribbean Cruises up to 80% Off exclusive deals on cruises to Mexico, the Bahamas, the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, and beyond.

$189 & up — Carnival Cruises with free room upgrades on virtually any Fun Ship cruise departing through December 31, 2010

3 for 2 and 4 for 3 Hotel Deals! As previously mentioned in today’s blog post, there are hundreds of hotels offering free nights around the world when you book three or more nights.

$189 per night for Grand Caymans 4-Star Resort This Summer (Reg. $400) This Marriott Beach Resort is within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and night clubs.

$99 a night weekends at Indianapolis 4-Diamond Hotel (Reg. $219) This AAA 4-Diamond hotel is connected to the Indiana Convention Center, Circle Centre Mall and is also within a short walk of the Indianapolis Zoo and the NCAA Hall of Champions.

MSNBC Travel is highlighting this Canadian travel deal: 9 nights, from $995 – Tour Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and New Brunswick with transfers and all other transportation; the services of a professional tour director and local guides.

USA Today: Learn how to use your frequent-flier miles for more than plane tickets!

$119+: NYC Flights to Grenada & Grand Cayman, tickets must be purchased by February 9 for travel through August 28.

For more of the best travel deals as we discover them, follow @BesTravelDeals and subscribe to our blog’s RSS feed!

Many travelers are spending more time this year researching for great deals, such as exploring new travel destinations to find the best bargains, but these are no out-of-the-way hotels. You can receive a free night’s stay in Amsterdam, throughout the Caribbean, or in one of hundreds of other cities.

Through the 22nd of this month, you can find incredible deals on literally hundreds of hotels worldwide. Pay for two nights, get a third free or pay for three nights, get a fourth in cities like Venice, Paris, or Madrid.

Remember, if you plan to travel with your family to Paris, you should never forget to visit Paris Disneyland, which will surely awe the kids and make their stay in Paris a memorable one!

via Jannisri

Airport lounges are seemingly out of reach for economy class flyers.  These road warriors usually opt for the least worn out chair at their connecting flight’s gate or perhaps a table at the nearest food court.  Without a corporate expense account or trust fund, they think, there is little hope of sitting in a plush chair in a quiet lounge surfing the internet and munching on complimentary snacks.

But there are several ways to access these lounges without springing for a first-class ticket.  In fact, with credit cards, club memberships and a variety of pay-in lounges throughout the world, it is now easier than ever to spend your layover in a lounge.

Here are some ideas for getting both economy class airfares and a first-class layover experience.

Priority Pass

Priority Pass is a service that offers access to 600 lounges worldwide for an annual membership fee.  Most major airports around the world have at least one lounge that is part of the Priority Pass network.

The company has several membership levels.  For $99 annually, members earn the right to access the lounges in the Priority Pass network for $27 per visit.  For $399, members receive free unlimited access to any of the 600 clubs.  There is also a $249 level where members get 10 free visits per year and additional visits at the $27 per entry rate.  Though $399 is a bit pricey, frequent flyers can take advantage of the access regularly and the membership fee is still less than the cost of most first-class upgrades.  The value of the lower membership levels is debatable, especially since the number of public pay-in lounges (see below) is growing.

MJTR, Flickr

Credit Cards

Premium credit cards can also offer lounge access.  The most famous of these (because of its aggressive advertising campaign) is the American Express Platinum card.  The annual fee of $450 is steep, but it qualifies card-holders for a variety of perks, one of which is entry to clubs operated by American Airlines, Delta and Continental.  The catch: you have to fly one of these airlines in order to enter their lounge.  However, if you usually fly one of these carriers and also plan to use the card to earn airline miles and take advantage of AmEx’s outstanding customer service, this is a reasonable option.

The Visa Black card has similar miles-earning potential and perks.  The $499 annual fee includes a Priority Pass membership.  However, after the first two visits, the admission fee is $27, making it less potent than Platinum when it comes to lounge access.

Plaza Premium Lounge

Pay-in Lounges

For casual travelers who don’t think the above-mentioned options are reasonable, the proliferation of public pay-in lounges is a welcome trend .  Sure, they might not carry the elitist vibe of airline clubs, but they offer many of the same amenities, and, in some cases, more luxury than traditional clubs.  The idea is already successful in East and South Asia, where Plaza Premium lounges can be found in most major airports.  Prices start at about $25 for a two hour stay complete with wi-fi, snacks, a comfortable and quiet atmosphere, and, the kicker, access to private showers.  Plaza Premium also has locations in Toronto and Vancouver, but none in the US as of this writing.

US-based pay-in options include The Lounge at JFK ($40 entry fee, unless you are a Priority Pass member) and Relax Lounge at LAX ($10 for a one hour stay and $25 for three hours.

Capsule Hotels

A company called Yotel recently opened locations in England and the Netherlands.  Their novel approach to airport hospitality is half-inspired by Japanese capsule hotels and a half by first class airline cabins.  The small Yotel rooms include a bed, television and shower and plenty of modern chic.  Rooms can be booked by the hour or for the entire night.  Though no locations are open in the US, Yotel is currently in talks with several airports and industry insiders claim that it will fill a valid niche in between airport hotels and lounges and arguably will offer better value than both.

Annual Airline Club Membership

Airline club membership is quite expensive (Delta from $400, American from $400, for flyers with little or no frequent flyer status).  These legacy airlines also offer one time entry into their clubs for a $50 fee.  If you normally rely on one airline, the annual pass can be a good deal, because you can use airline miles to purchase yearly membership and flyers who gain higher levels of frequent flyer status often receive significant discounts on these yearly passes.  In addition, renewal fees are usually less expensive than the fee for the initial year of membership.

Spas

Space, quiet and the opportunity for some serious relaxation are reasons you would try to gain entry to an airport lounge.  However, lounges are not the only airport venues that offer a chance to relax.  Xpress Spa is a chain of full service spas located in airports around the US.  What could be more relaxing than a massage or facial in the quiet, designer surroundings of a spa?  Locations are in many major airports in the US, including JFK, SFO, Atlanta Hartsfield Jackson, Boston Logan, and Orlando International.  A brief, seated massage is in the same price range as a stay in an airport lounge.

Of course, if all else fails, there is always the option of finding a restaurant with booths on your concourse, ordering an appetizer and zoning out with your iPod.

There are two types of people in the world – those who watch the Super Bowl for the extreme competition of a coveted prize that most players wait their whole life for, and those who watch for the ads.  This year I’m going to toe the line between both, as my favorite football team always leads me to be disappointed and miserable at the end of every season.  Luckily I never let them bias me in any football pools. (Next year, Eagles, you better not let me down.  Sigh.)

Spots during the super bowl reportedly cost $3 million per 30-second ad.  The vacation rental industry has not seen has yet to see one of its own go up against that pricing and competition, but this year Homeaway threw their hat into the mix.

Clark and Ellen Griswold from “National Lampoon’s Vacation” will be featured in Homeaway’s ad.  As most know, the movie featured a family vacation that goes from bad to worse.  To this day, it still entertains the young and old.  Rumors circulating put Clark Griswold in a Napoleon suite.  Upon arriving in the room they find it is made for… people a lot shorter than Clark.

Clearly the ad is designed to spur demand for vacation rentals….and if you are inspired here are some specials we’ve found:

Outer Banks vacation rentals 50% off, $99 weeknights in treehouses, Hawaii Villas with a free night, and for the pet lovers like me – a slew of different Outer Banks Pet Friendly Vacation Homes!

The ad has also fueled speculation that there is a new “National Lampoon’s Vacation” movie in the works – even providing some teasers from Homeaway.   I will take any Griswolds I can get, but my personal favorite was Vegas Vacation… what was yours?

The idea of spending time in Tokyo usually doesn’t cross the minds of budget travelers because of Tokyo’s reputation for being the most expensive city in the world. After paying for a hotel and food for the duration of your stay, the funds you have left for recreation and sightseeing may be minimal. Fortunately, there are several free activities to enjoy in Japan’s notoriously pricey capital. The following list of free things to do in Tokyo proves that enjoying the mega metropolis doesn’t have to result in going broke.

1. Yoyogi Park on Sundays

Yoyogi Park, which is located near Harajuku station, is a gathering place for musicians, artists, and freaks on Sundays. From watching Japanese rockabilly dancers practice their moves to hearing up-and-coming rock-and-roll bands perform on the street with the hope of acquiring new fans, Yoyogi is the hang out for twenty and thirty-somethings in Tokyo. Whether you want to walk around and gawk at all the performers or relax on the grass and play Frisbee with your friends, Yoyogi Park offers the perfect escape from Tokyo’s sometimes maddening rat race.

2. Tsukiji Fish Market

Watch as huge tuna are auctioned off for thousands of dollars and meander through rows of stalls selling everything from sea urchin to caviar at Tokyo’s famous Tsukiji fish market. If you want to catch the action at Tsukiji’s tuna auction, be prepared to arrive at the market at 5am. Unfortunately, after being caught hugging, licking, and even riding tuna for the sake of a good photo op, tourists are now banned from observing Tsukiji’s tuna auctions at the busiest time of the year (which ran from December 10, 2009 to January 23, 2010 in 2009-2010). The Tokyo Metropolitan government has hired security guards and enforced a no flash photography policy in order to prevent the disruption of the daily tuna auctions.

3. Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

There’s no need to pay money at the Tokyo Tower or Roppongi Hills to get a panoramic view of Tokyo from up above. Just visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku and head to the 45th floor for a free 360° view of Tokyo, Yokohama, and Mt. Fuji. The vista’s equally stunning, and there is a café and gift shop on the same floor.

4. The Sumo Wrestling Museum and the Kanto Earthquake Memorial Museum

Located alongside the Kokugikan Sumo Wrestling Stadium is Tokyo’s Sumo Wrestling Museum, a museum showcasing memorabilia and photos of some of Japan’s greatest sumo wrestlers. The museum’s artifacts give a historical overview of this national sport, and there is no charge for entrance on non-tournament days. Close by on the Tokyo Memorial Temple grounds is the Kanto Earthquake Memorial Museum, which chronicles the devastation of Tokyo’s 1923 earthquake, a temblor that destroyed 70 percent of the city. The adjacent temple serves as a memorial to the victims of the earthquake as well as those who died at war.

5. Sony Building

If you’re into futuristic gadgets, don’t miss a visit to Ginza’s Sony Building, where you’ll find a five-story showroom exhibiting the latest gadgets from Sony. Open every day from 10am to 8pm, the Sony Building’s showroom is free and offers visitors a glimpse into the future.

6. The Imperial Palace

Set in the middle of Tokyo, the majestic Imperial Palace is where the Emperor and Empress of Japan reside. The Outer Garden, East Garden, and Kita-no-maru-koen Park are open to the general public and free of charge. In the East Garden, there’s a museum that showcases Emperor Showa’s art collection, and entrance is free. The three mile walk around the Imperial Palace’s moat is particularly beautiful in the spring, when the cherry blossoms bloom. Lush, verdant, and peaceful, the palace grounds offer a welcome respite from the noise and bustle of the city.

7. Depachika

If you ever get hungry during your free tour of Tokyo, explore the basements of large Japanese department stores, known as depachika. The basements of department stores, like Matsuzayaka in Ginza and the Nakamise Shopping Arcade in Asakusa, typically offer shoppers free gourmet food samples. If you’re embarrassed about sampling foods without actually buying anything, use your depachika excursion as an opportunity to shop for souvenirs. Depachika are a great place to buy gifts for your foodie friends.

We’ve put together a comprehensive list of travel accounts on Twitter. Whether you’re looking for a specific airline’s Twitter account or want to browse through some travel blog accounts, here you’ll find a wealth of Twitter profiles related to the travel industry.

• Air Asia (Malaysa-based airline) – @AirAsiaDotcom
• airBaltic (Latvia-based airline) — @air_baltic
• Air France (France-based airline) — @AirFranceUS
• Air New Zealand (New Zealand-based airline) — @FlyAirNZ
• Alaska Airlines (U.S.-based airline) — @AlaskaAir
• Allegiant Air (U.S.-based low-cost airline) –@AllegiantAir
• American Airlines (U.S.-based airline) — @AAirwaves
• British Airways (UK-based airline) — @BritishAirways
• Cathay Pacific (Hong Kong-based airline) — @CathayPacific
• Cebu Pacific Air (Philippine-based airline) — @ CebuPacific5J
• Continental Airlines (U.S.-based airline) — @Continental
• Delta Airlines (U.S.-based airline) — @DeltaAirlines
• easyJet (European low-cost airline) — @easyJetCare, @easyJet, @easyJet_insider
• Emirates (Middle Eastern airline) — @FlyingEmirates
• Garuda Indonesia (Indonesia-based airline) — @GarudaIndonesia
• Gulf Air (Bahrain-based airline) — @OfficialGulfAir
• Hawaiian Airlines (U.S.-based airline operated out of Hawaii) — @FlyHawaiian
• Iberia Airlines (Spain-based airline) — @IberiAirlines
• Jet Blue (U.S.-based low-cost airline) — @JetBlue
• Jetstar Airways (Australia-based low-cost airline) — @JetstarAirways
• Kenya Airways (Kenya-based airline) — @KenyaAirways
• KLM (Netherlands-based airline) — @KLM
• Lufthansa (Germany-based airline) — @Lufthansa_de
• Malaysia Airlines (Malaysia-based airline) — @MAS
• Mexican Air (Mexico-based airline) — @MexicanaAir
• Philippine Airlines (Philippine-based airline) — @flyPAL
• Qantas (Australia-based airline) — @QantasUSA
• Scandinavian Airline (Sweden-based airline) — @FlySAS_com
• Singapore Airlines (Singapore-based airline) — @SQairlines
• Southwest Airlines (U.S.-based airline) — @SouthwestAir
• Spirit Airlines (U.S.-based low-cost airline) — @SpiritAirlines
• Sun Country Airlines (U.S.-based low-cost airline) — @SunCountryAir
• Swiss Airlines (Switzerland-based airline) — @SwissAirlines
• TAM Airlines (Brazil-based airline) — @TAMairlines
• United Airlines (U.S.-based airline) — @UnitedAirlines
• Virgin America (U.S.-based low-cost airline) — @VirginAmerica
• Virgin Atlantic (UK-based airline) — @VirginAtlantic
• Virgin Blue/V Australia (Australia-based low-cost airline; trades as V Australia) — @VirginBlue, @VAustralia
• Viva Aerobus (Mexico-based low-cost airline) — @VivaAerobus
• Volaris (Mexico-based low-cost airline) — @viajaVolaris
• West Coast Air (Canada-based charter airline) — @WestCoastAir
• WestJet (Canada-based low-cost airline) — @WestJet

United States:

• Ackron-Canton Airport (Ackron, OH) — @CAKairport
• Atlanta International Airport (Atlanta, GA) — @atlanta_airport
• Bangor International Airport (Bangor, Maine) — @FlyBGR
• Boston Logan Airport (Boston, MA) — @BostonLogan
• Buffalo International Airport (Buffalo, NY) — @Buffalo_Niagara
• BWI Marshall Airport (Baltimore, MD) — @BWI_Airport
• Chicago Rockford International Airport (Rockford, IL) — @FlyRFD
• Cincinnati Airport (Cincinnati, OH) — @CVGAirport
• Cville Airport (Charlottesville, VA) — @CHOAirport
• Eastern Iowa Airport (Cedar Rapids, IA) — @crairport
• Eugene Airport (Eugene, OR) — @flyEUG
• Gateway Airport (Mesa, AZ) — @phxmesagateway
• Harrisburg International Airport (Middletown, PA) — @HIAairport
• Houston International Airport (Houston, TX) — @HOU
• Indianapolis Airport (Indianapolis, IN) — @INDairport
• Iowa City Airport (Iowa City, IA) — @ICAirport
• John Wayne Airport (Orange County, CA) — @JohnWayneAir
• Kansas City Airport (Kansas City, MO) — @KCIAirport
• LAX/Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles, CA) — @LAX_Official
• MidContinent Airport (Wichita, KS) — @FlyICT
• Midway Airport (Chicago, IL) — @MidwayAirport
• Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (Minneapolis, MN) — @mspairport
• Mitchell Airport (Milwaukee, Wisconsin) — @MitchellAirport
• Orlando International Airport (Orlando, FL) — @MCO
• Orlando-Melbourne International Airport (Melbourne, FL) — @MelbourneAirprt
• Pensacola Airport (Pensacola, FL) — @flypensacola1
• Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (Phoenix, AZ) — @PHXSkyHarbor
• Pittsburgh International Airport (Pittsburgh, PA) — @PITairport
• Raleigh-Durham International Airport (Raleigh, NC) — @RDUAirport
• Richmond International Airport (Richmond, VA) — @Flack4RIC
• Sacramento International Airport (Sacramento, CA) — @SacIntlAirport
• San Diego Airport (San Diego, CA) — @SanDiegoAirport
• San Francisco International Airport (San Francisco, CA) — @SFOgal
• Tri Cities Airport (Blountville, TN) — @triflight
• Tulsa International Airport (Tulsa, OK) — @tulsaairports
• Tuscon Airport (Tuscon, AZ) — @TucsonAirport
• Yeager Airport (Charleston, WV) — @YeagerAirport

Canada:

• Kelowna Airport (Kelowna, BC) — @ylwkelowna
• Ottawa International Airport (Ottawa, Ontario) — @FlyYOW
• Toronto Airport (Toronto, Ontario) — @YYZ
• Vancouver Airport (Vancouver, BC) — @YVR, @yvrairport

Latin America:

• Cancun Airport (Cancun, Mexico) — @cancun_airport

UK:

• Birmingham Airport (Birmingham, UK) — @bhx_official
• Farnborough Airport (Farnborough, UK) — @FarnboroughApt
• Gatwick Airport (West Sussex, UK) — @Gatwick_Airport
• Glasgow Airport (Glasgow, Scotland, UK) — @GLA_Airport
• Heathrow Airport (London, UK) — @HeathrowAirport, @LHR
• Liverpool Airport (Liverpool, UK) — @LPL_Airport
• London City Airport (London, UK) — @LondonCityAir
• Manchester Airport (Manchester, UK) — @manairport
• Newcastle Airport (Newcastle, UK) — @NCLAirport
• Southampton Airport (Southampton, UK) — @SOU_Airport

Europe:

• Arlanda Airport (Stockholm, Sweden) — @Arlanda
• Brussels Airlines -– @FlyingBrussels
• Charles de Gaulle Airport (Paris, France) — @CDG
• Dortmund Airport (Dortmund, Germany) — @DortmundAirport
• Hamburg Airport (Hamburg, Germany) — @HamburgAirport
• Munich Airport (Munich, Germany) — @MUC_Airport
• Nurnberg Airport (Nurnberg, Germany) — @airportnue
• Oslo Airport (Gardermoen, Norway) — @OsloAirport
• Schiphol Airport (Amsterdam, Netherlands) — @schipholairport

Asia:

• Bahrain Airport (Bahrain) — @bahrainairport
• Bankok Airport (Bankok, Thailand) — @bangkokairport
• Beijing International Airport (Beijing, China) — @PEK

• ACW Railway — @ACW_railway
• Amtrak — @Amtrak_ca
• Angels Flight Railway — @AngelsFlight
• BNSF — @BNSFcorp
• Canadian Pacific — @CPcareers
• CSX — @CSX
• Grand Canyon Rail — @GrandCanyonRail
• M&H Railroad — @MHrailroad
• NYC Trains — @NYCtrains
• Omaha Street Railway Company — @OmahaStRyCo
• Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) — @SFBART
• Snowdon Railway — @SnowdonRailway
• Union Pacific — @UnionPacific

• MARTA Atlanta, GA Transit — @MartaMarketing
• MBTA Boston Transit — @MBTANow
• Los Angeles Metro — @metrolosangeles
• New York City Transit Subway Service — @nyctsubwayscoop
• SEPTA, Philadelphia’s subway — @septa

• Advantage Rent a Car — @AdvantageRAC
• America VIP Car Rental — @AmericaVIP
• Budget Rent a Car — @BudgetRAC
• Dollar Car Rental — @DollarCars
• E-Z Rent a Car — @EZRentACar
• Fox Rent a Car — @foxrentcar
• Hertz — @ConnectByHertz
• National Car Rental — @nationalcares
• Payless Car Rental — @PaylessCar
• Thrifty — @ThriftyRentaCar

• Accor Hotels — AccorHotelsAPAC, @Accorhotels
• Affinia Hotels — @affiniahotels
• AmercInn Hotels — @AmericInn
• Best Western Hotels — @TheBestWestern
• Coast Hotels — @coasthotels
• Choice Hotels — @ChoiceHotels
• Courtyard Hotels — @CourtyardHotels
• Days Inn Hotels — @DaysInns
• Dolce Hotels — @Dolce_Hotels
• Doubletree Hotels — @doubletreehtls
• Embassy Suites — @Embassy_Suites
• Eurobookings.com — @Eurobookings
• Fairmont Hotels — @fairmonthotels
• Four Seasons Hotels — @FourSeasons
• Gala Hotels — @galahotels
• Hampton Hotels — @HamptonFYI
• Hard Rock Hotels — @HardRockHotels
• Hilton Garden Inns — @HGI_INNsider
• Hilton Hotels — @HiltonOnline
• Holiday Inns — @HardRockHotels
• Hyatt Concierge — @HyattConcierge
• Hyatt PR — @HyattPR
• Hyatt Resorts — @HyattResort
• InterContinental Hotel Group — @IHGPLC, @WorldConcierge
• Kimpton Hotels — @Kimpton
• LaQuinta Inns — @LQ
• Loews Hotels — @Loews_Hotels
• Luxor Hotel Casino — @LuxorLV
• Marriott Hotels — @Marriottintl
• Millennium Hotels — @MillenniumPR
• Morgans Hotel Group — @morganshotels
• Omni Hotels — @OmniHotels, @OmniHotelsPR
• Park Plaza Hotels — @ParkPlazaHotels
• Renaissance Hotels — @RenHotels
• Ritz Carlton — @Ritz_Carlton
• Sandals Resorts — @sandalsresorts
• Shilo Inns — @ShiloInnsHotels
• Starwood Hotels — @StarwoodBuzz
• Starwood Preferred Guest Account — @SPGInsider
• Trump Hotel — @TrumpCollection
• Tune Hotels — @tunehotels
• Wingate Hotels — @Wingatehotels

• Carnival Cruise Line — @CarnivalCruise
• Crystal Cruises — @crystalcruises
• Cunard Line — @cunardline
• Disney Cruises — @DCLnews
• Holland America Cruiseline — @HALcruises
• Norwegian Cruises — @NCLFreestyle
• Oasis and Allure — @OasisandAllure
• Princess Cruises — @PrincessCruises
• Royal Caribbean International — @royalcaribbean
• Silversea Cruises — @Silversea
• Viking River Cruises — @VikingRiver

• Dog Jaunt (how to travel with small dogs) — @dogjaunt
• Go Pet Friendly (pet travel tips) — @GoPetFriendly
• Pet Airways (official account of the popular cruise line) — @petairways
• Puppy Travel, a pet travel agent’s account –  @puppytravel
• World Pet Travel, U.S.-based pet transportation company –@WorldPetTravel

• 10best — @10best
• Cruise Critic — @CruiseCritic
• Conde Nast Traveller — @CNTraveler
• Fodor’s Travel — @fodorstravel
• Frommer’s Travel — @FrommersTravel
• Funnel Scope — @FunnelScopeNews
• Globetrooper — @globetrooper
• Go Planit — @goplanit
• GoWaza — @gowaza
• HotelChatter — @HotelChatter
• IgoUgo — @igougo_com
• London Times Travel -– @timestravel
• Make Travel Fair — @maketravelfair
• Oyster Hotel Reviews — @OysterHotels
• Rough Guides –- @RoughGuides
• ROW Adventures — @ROWadventures
• Travelbeen — @travelbeen
• Travelers Defense — @Travelersdefnse
• Trazzler — @trazzler
• Trip Advisor — @TripAdvisor
• Tripbod — @Tripbod
• UpTake — @UpTake
• Where I’ve Been — @WhereIveBeen

• 1-800-HOTELS — @1800HOTELS
• Airbnb — @airbnb
• AOL Travel — @aoltravel
• Bing Travel — @fareologist
• Booking Buddy — @BookingBuddy
• CheapFlights.com — @Cheapflightscom
• Euro Cheapo — @eurocheapo
• Expedia — @Expedia
• FareAir — @Fareair
• HostelWorld.com — @hostelworld
• Hotwire — @hotwire
• i-escape.com — @iescape
• Kayak — @Kayak
• LastMinute.com — @lastminute_com
• LowFares.com — @LowFaresDeals
• MoreHotels4Less — @morehotels4less
• Neckurlaub — @Neckurlaub
• Neckermann — @NeckermannDE
• OneTime — @onetimetravel
• OneTravel — @onetravel
• Orbitz — @Orbitz
• Pure Travel — @visitpuretravel
• Seasite — @Seasite
• Smith Boutique Hotel Directory — @smithhotels
• Tour About — @Tourabout
• TravelMuse — @TravelMuse
• Travelocity — @travelocity
• Urlaub.de — @urlaub_de
• Urban Adventures — @UrbanAdventures_
• VoyageTV — @VoyageTV
• Wego — @wego
• WHL Travel — @WHLTravel
• Wotif — @Wotif
• Yucatan Holidays — @YucatanHolidays

• Associated Content Travel — @AC_Travel
• Africa travel tips — @africatrip
• Travel tips from the Vacation Barefoot blog — @BarefootTips
• Best Travel Deals — @BesTravelDeals
• Brilliant Tips — @BrilliantTips
• Green travel tips — @cangreentravel
• Travel tips from Cheap Flights — @CheapflightsFAM
• Europe travel tips — @europetraveltip
• Travel tips from the Fun Times Guide — @FunTravelTips
• Go Go Trip tips — @gogotrip
• Go Local Travel — @golocaltravel
• Eco-conscious travel tips — @GoGreenTraveler
• Travel tips from I Stop Over — @istopover
• Local travel tips — @LocalTravelTips
• My Travel Tools — @MyTravelTools
• New York Guest — @NewYorkGuest
• NewYorkology (New York travel tips) — @newyorkology
• NY Times travel Q&A — @nytimestravelqa
• Travel tips from Park Ride Fly USA — @parkrideflyusa
• Travel tips from a pilot’s wife — @pilotswifetips
• Travel tips from a flight attendant — @Heather_Poole
• San Diego travel tips — @sdtips
• Short Travel Tips — @ShortTravelTips
• Tripwolf — @TripWolf
Europe travel tips — @tourtoeurope
• Travel tips from Travel_Easy — @Travel_easy
• Travel tips from riadkniza.com — @Travel_Tip
• Travel tips and deals — @traveltips4u
• Thai travel tips — @TravelTipsThai
• Travel tips from Travel Top 10 — @TravelTop10
• Travel tips from Wicked Good Travel Tips — @WGTravelTips
• Travel tips from Your Travel Tips — @yourtraveltips
• Wall Street Journal Travel Tips — @MiddleSeat

• 29travels — @29travels
• Almost Fearlerss — @almostfearless
• Amateur Traveller — @AmateurTraveler
• Away Blog — @awayblog
• Blog on Travel — @Blogontravel
• Bo Traveller — @botraveller
• CheapOair — @CheapOair
• Christoper Elliott — @elliottdotorg
• Co Travel Girl — @CoTravelGirl
• Cranky Flier — @crankyflier
• DeliciousBaby — @DeliciousBaby
• Dream of Italy — @dreamofitaly
• Frugal Travel Guy –- @FrugalTravelGuy
• Go Green Traveler — @gogreentraveler
• Green Travel Hub — @GreenTravelHub
• Grid Skipper — @gridskipper
• Hip Compass — @HipCompass
• Hole In The Donut — @HoleintheDonut
• Italy Art Travel — @ItalyArtTravel
• Italylogue — @Italylogue
• Jaunted — @jaunted
• Jet with Kids — @JetWithKids
• Kim Mance — KimMance
• LA Times Travel — @latimestravel
• Life Cruiser — @lifecruiser
• Matador Network — @MatadorNetwork
• Met Blogs — @metblogs
• Mother of all Trips — @motherofalltrip
• Nerd’s Eye View — @NerdsEyeView
• Open Travel — @Open_Travel
• Parks Traveler — @parkstraveler
• Rick Seaney — @rickseaney
• The Vacation Gals — @thevacationgals
• Tourist 2 Townie — @tourist2townie
• Trans-Americas — @TransAmericas
• Travel Freak — @travel_freak
• Travel Channel — @travelchannel
• Traveling Mamas — @travelingmamas
• Travel Muse — @TravelMuse
• TravelPod — @TravelPod
• Travel Post — @TravelPost
• Travel Rants — @travelrants
• Travel Savvy Mom — @travelsavvymom
• Vagablogging — @vagablogging
• Vagabondish — @vagabondish
• Wandermom — @wandermom
• Wanderlust and Lipstick — @wanderluster
• We Just Got Back — @WeJustGotBack
• WHL Travel Blog — @WHLtravelblog
• WritingTravel — @WritingTravel
• Worldhum — @worldhum
• Worldhum — @worldnomads