Though the Olympics are over, Canada’s third-largest city is still a thriving metropolis and tourist destination. Moreover, its possible to enjoy Vancouver without spending a fortune. With this list, and some great Canada hotel deals, you can take advantage of the city’s diverse culture and natural environment without spending a thing.

1. Stanley Park

This 1,000-acre park, just outside of downtown Vancouver, if frequently cited as one of the best urban parks in North America. In addition to its thousands of Coniferous and Deciduous trees, Stanley Park has a great Pacific coast, several freshwater lakes, and Shakespeare Park – an arboretum which features the trees named in Shakespeare’s plays. There are also a number of man-made attractions in the park, including the Air India Memorial, the 9 O’Clock Gun and the Garden of Remembrance.

2. Granville Island

This island, once a site of industrial plants, has redefined itself as a culturally vibrant community filled with galleries, restaurants, cafes, theaters, and a famous public market. Take the Aquabus Ferry, which, unfortunately, comes with a $5 price tag, and arrive at this island escape right in the middle of the city.

3. Grouse Grind

If you really want to get a workout during your trip, take this 1.8 mile hike up Grouse Mountain. Though the mountain is only 4,000 ft high, it is particularly grueling due to the 30% gradient most of the way up. If you make it up and find yourself exhausted, there’s a gondola to bring you back down to earth.

4. Gordon Macmillan Southern Observatory

Adjacent to the Macmillan Space Center, this observatory offers free use of its Cassegrain telescope Thursday and Friday nights. If the sky is clear be sure to check out this free glimpse into the cosmos!

5. Queen Elizabeth Park

This 130-acre park, practically in the center of the city, is known for being the tallest point in Vancouver. Queen Elizabeth Park has both an arboretum, housing thousands of trees, and a number of recreational facilities, including golf, tennis, and lawn bowling. Whatever you want out of your Vancouver vacation, this park will make a great stop.

6. Italian Movie Nights

Celebrate Vancouver’s Italian heritage at the Italian Culture Center, which hosts a free movie night every other Monday. Each film is shown in its original Italian with English subtitles and a lecture afterward by the center’s film expert.

7. Lynn Canyon Ecology Center

Learn about Vancouver’s temperate rainforest environment at the Lynn Canyon Ecology Center! The kids will love the center’s exhibits and the play area in back.

8. Dr. Sun Yat Sen Park

Though there’s an admission price to get into Dr. Sun Yat Sen Chinese Garden, the adjacent park is always free of charge. Enjoy the Chinese-style garden and relax by the park’s pond. The park is named after Sun Yat Sen, a Nationalist Chinese leader who thrice stayed in Vancouver during the Chinese Civil War.

9. Christ Church Cathedral

This Gothic-revival building is one of Vancouver’s most impressive religious buildings. Constructed in 1889, it was later given beautiful stain-glass windows to commemorate Canada’s fallen during the World Wars. The church is open for visitation throughout the week, so you can attend a service, listen to a free choir concert, go on a guided tour, or wander the premises at your own pace.

10. Lighthouse Park
This popular public park encompasses 185 acres of Vancouver rainforest and a beautiful shore-front. Hike along the park’s many trails or picnic by Point Atkinson Lighthouse. The park is located in West Vancouver, just outside of Vancouver proper.

Canada’s largest city is famously open to foreigners, so it makes sense that it would have so many options which don’t cost a cent. Explore the city’s many public areas, marvel at its architecture, appreciate its artwork, and stare through its telescopes. No matter your budget, there are some great Canada hotel deals to help you have a spectacular and budget friendly Toronto experience!

1. Museum of Contemporary Canadian Art

This museum, which offers free admission all the time, features over 400 pieces by over 150 Canadian artists. Its current exhibition, named Empire of Dreams, studies artists who look at the way human architecture interacts with the natural environment. There’s no place better (or cheaper) place to gain an appreciation of Canada’s distinct artistic voice.

2. Ireland Park

This municipal park commemorates the thousands of Irish who fled their homeland during the potato famine from 1845 to 1852. The park features a series of sculptures named “Arrival” by Rowan Gillespie and a wall inscribed with the names of Torontonians who died to help the Irish immigrants.

3. Toronto Free Gallery

This unique, not-for-profit gallery is an open forum for any artist wishing to communicate a cultural, urban, or environmental message. Come and experience one of the many individual or collaborative pieces which have been on exhibit in this progressive venue.

4. Allan Gardens Conservatory

This 4,900 square meter park includes both an outdoor garden and six greenhouses with flowers from around the world. The park is also home to a wide array of urban wildlife, include several species of squirrels and falcons. Admission is free, so get outside and learn about the conservatory’s diverse array of plant and animal life.

5. York University Observatory

Come to York University on Wednesday nights and pierce the night sky with two state-of-the-art telescopes. The observatory is open for free to the public from 9 PM to 11 PM every Wednesday night, as well as on certain special events.

6. Adrenaline Rush at Yonge and Dundas Square

Head over to Yonge and Dundas Square to catch an outdoor double-feature. This summer’s films include the original and remake of Ocean’s 11 and The Italian Job.

7. Riverdale Farm

This publicly-owned 7.5-acre farm contains a number of hiking trails, a wading pool, a vegetable garden, and a number of friendly animals. Come any time to enjoy the space, or on Tuesday afternoons to shop at the farmers market.

8. Distillery District

This recently-redeveloped neighborhood contains the largest collection of Victorian-era houses in North America. Walk along the cobblestone streets and marvel at the many historic buildings which line it, including the old distillery which lent the neighborhood its name. There are also a number of stores and cafes for shopping and eating.

9. Toronto Music Garden

This beautiful garden, designed in part by Yo-Yo Ma, was inspired by Bach’s Suites for Unaccompanied Cello. With that kind of musical heritage, it’s only fitting that it should be a venue for great music today. Explore both the man-made and natural elements of the park’s beauty while enjoying a free concert this summer.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina’s beautiful resort city, draws millions of tourists with its beauty and climate. Though not known as a destination for budget travelers, the city boasts a number of activities that can be enjoyed at no cost! Visit the beach, hear live music, learn about history, and even visit an alligator park without spending a dime!

1 – Free Beaches

Swim, sunbathe, and explore Myrtle Beach’s beautiful namesake beaches! There are a number of spots to visit which are free of charge. Bring the whole family to enjoy Myrtle Beach’s natural beauty!

2- Summer Concert Series in McLean Park

On the third Friday of every month, visit McLean Park for a free evening concert! Performers of various genres perform from 7 to 9 PM. Bring a picnic and make the most out of your Friday night!

3 – Alligator Adventure

Visit Myrtle Beach’s Barefoot Landing and check out this unique wilderness reserve! Alligator Adventure houses 800 alligators, ranging in length from 8 inches to 13 feet. Watch the feeding shows and presentations, or just idle through the park at your own pace.

4 – South Carolina Hall of Fame

This museum honors the many individuals who have contributed to the unique culture and history of the Palmetto State. Learn about figures as disperse as Andrew Jackson, Dizzy Gillespie, and Strom Thurmond.

5 – Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum

One of the finest art museums in the Carolinas, this museum has a small but diverse collection and many changing exhibitions. Explore the world of Southern painting, 17th century cartography, and quilt artwork.

6 – Vareen Memorial Park and Gardens

This well-hidden park traverses a number of salt marshes and islands. Walk along the wooden pathways and enjoy the beautiful views of this unique environment.

7 – Thomas Kinkade Gallery

The famous American painter Thomas Kinkade is known for his beautiful, idyllic settings and stunning use of light. His work is the displayed at this outdoor gallery.

8 – Warbird Park

Visit this park and honor the men and women from Myrtle Beach who have served in the nation’s air force. Several military craft and a runway are on display. The park also has paved bike paths, so get some exercise and learn about the city’s history at the same time!

To admire monumental fireworks, participate in fun-filled activities, and indulge in the excitement that only a big city can offer, take advantage of these 7 city hotel deals this Fourth of July weekend.

1. Save Almost 30% on Deluxe Accommodations at the Park Hyatt, Washington DC

With its fascinating historical sites and famed fireworks display, Washington DC is an ideal destination for enjoying a lively Fourth of July weekend. The Park Hyatt is offering “An American Holiday” package, which includes a complimentary upgrade to a Premier Park Deluxe Room, breakfast table for two, daily 50% credit towards valet parking, and a seasonal red, white, and blue amenity. Rates start at $249 plus tax, saving you almost 30%. Visit www.parkhyattwashington.com or call 1-800-778-7477 to make a reservation.

2. Save 20% on a Two-Night Stay and 30% on a Three-Night Stay at Hotel Felix in Chicago

Hotel Felix is a budget-friendly and eco-friendly boutique hotel in Chicago that recently earned the Green Seal Environmental Standard for Lodging-Silver certification. If you want to save 20% to 30%, book a two to three-night stay through July 4th. You can place your reservation by visiting www.hotelfelixchicago.com or calling toll-free at 800-848-4040.

3. July 4th Family Fun Package Starting at $89 at the Hampton Inn in Seattle

Guests arriving on the 4th can book a July 4th Family Fun Package at the Hampton Inn in Seattle for a rate of between $89 and $129. This package includes accommodations for up to four guests, a complimentary shuttle to Fort Dent Park for the day, a hot continental breakfast, and an extended checkout of 3pm. Call 800-774-1500 and request the plan code PFK to place your reservation.

4. Stay 3 Nights and Save 25% Each Night at the Langham, Boston from July 1-6

If you’re participating in Boston’s Fourth of July festivities from July 1-6, don’t miss this offer. When you stay a minimum of 3 nights at the Langham in Boston during the Fourth of July celebrations, you receive 25% off each night. The Langham is an ideal jumping off point for your stay in Boston, as it’s only steps away from some of Boston’s greatest attractions, including the Freedom Trail and the Faneuil Hall Marketplace. Nightly rates start at $191. For more information about this deal, visit http://boston.langhamhotels.com.

5. Enjoy an Outdoor 4th of July Feast and a Two-Night Stay at the Wentworth Mansion in Charleston, South Carolina

The Wentworth Mansion, the only AAA Five Diamond hotel in Charleston, is hosting an outdoor 4th of July feast called the Sizzling Southern Celebration at 7pm on their lawn. Classic southern fare will be served at the event, and dinner will be accompanied by live music. After the celebration, guests will watch the fireworks and drink champagne at the Wentworth Mansion’s cupola. This package includes a two-night stay and costs $975 per couple. To place a reservation, call 843-853-7828.

6. Stay Two Nights and Get the Third Free at the Rittenhouse 1715 Hotel in Philadelphia

The Rittenhouse 1715 Hotel is a boutique hotel in the historic city of Philadelphia. If you stay at the Rittenhouse this 4th of July weekend, you can take advantage of their “Buy 2, Stay 3” deal on all rooms. Nightly rates start at $269 and include complimentary wine reception and breakfast each day. Visit www.rittenhouse1715 for more information about this time-sensitive offer.

7. Save up to 25% at the Mandarin Oriental in San Francisco

The sky-high Mandarin Oriental in San Francisco boasts legendary service, stunning views, and elegant guest rooms. On 4th of July weekend, rates at the Mandarin Oriental will start at just $295 for a Superior King room, representing a savings of 15% to 25%. Mandarin Oriental’s Silks Restaurant earned a top spot in the Zagat Survey 2008 and has a Mobil Four Star rating. The hotel itself has won numerous awards, including the Conde Nast Traveler 2009 Gold List and Travel + Leisure 2009 World’s Best Hotels. For reservations or additional information, please call (415) 276-9888 or visit www.mandarinoriental.com/sanfrancisco.

Thirsting for more than the usual backyard cookout this Fourth of July weekend? Check out these 8 Fourth of July weekend beach hotel deals to celebrate our nation’s independence in the sun, sand, and surf this year.

1. 2-for-1 Discount on Turneffe Atoll Adventure Tours in Belize

Take a weeklong Caribbean tour based at the Turneffe Flats Resort to enjoy activities like snorkeling, fishing, scuba diving, dolphin watching, kayaking, and hiking around Turneffe Atoll and Lighthouse Atoll. With this 2-for-1 discount, you’ll save $1028 off the regular price for two people. This offer is only valid for departures between June and August 2010. Click here for more information.

2. Nightly rates Starting at $97 at the Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort & Spa in Fort Myers, Florida

On Fourth of July Weekend, guests at the Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort & Spa can participate in a karaoke contest and a plethora of other activities, including volleyball tournaments, waterslides, live music performances, fireworks cruises, and dive-in movies. Rates start at $97 all summer and Florida residents get a special 15 percent discount. Click here for details.

3. “Red, White, & Boom” Packages Starting at $510 at the TradeWinds Island Resorts in St. Pete Beach, Florida

From July 2-7, 2010, celebrate our nation’s birthday in style at the Island Grand and Sandpiper Suites. Included in the “Red, White, & Boom” package are accommodations for three nights, a buffet for two on Sunday, July 4th, and all of the benefits included in the resort amenity fee. If you decide to extend your stay, you’ll get up to 50% off on July 5-7. For reservations and information, call toll-free (866) JUST LET GO (587-8538) or visit www.JustLetGo.com.

4. Book the Scuba Diving Package at the Small Hope Bay Lodge on Andros Island, Bahamas and Receive 5% Off

A small, family-run resort, Small Hope Bay Lodge is cozy and inviting. In commemoration of its 50th anniversary, Small Hope is offering a 5% discount when you book their 7 day/8day scuba diving package by June 30, 2010. The package includes three scuba diving sessions per day, a night dive, and all amenities. If you ask for the Nassau Airfare Special when you book your package, you’ll also receive free round trip airfare between Nassau and Andros. Click here for further details.

5. Save up to $300 on a Four-Night Stay at the Loews Miami Beach Hotel

After its $50 million renovation, the Loews Miami Beach Hotel is ready to show off its stunning new look. Through September 30th, guests at the Loews Miami Beach Hotel receive a fourth night free and a $100 food & beverage credit. Summer rates start at $199 per night, so this deal translates to savings of up to $300 on a four-night stay. Click here for more information about this package.

6. Get a $50 per night resort credit and Luxury Accommodations for only $159 per night at the Costa d’Este Resort in Vero Beach, Florida

Owned by Gloria and Emilio Estefan, the Costa d’Este Resort in Vero Beach, Florida is one of the top 10 celebrity-owned resorts in the world. Take advantage of the “Sea and Be Scene” package this 4th of July weekend to get luxury accommodations starting at $159 per night, a resort credit of $50 per night, and a $100 voucher good for future stays of two nights or more. The resort credit can be used at the cabana bar, spa, or Oriente, the resort’s Cuban-fusion restaurant. To place a reservation, call 877-562-9919.

7. Kids Stay Free at the All-Inclusive Velas Resorts in Mexico

From June 1st to August 31st, two children 12 and under can stay and eat free when occupying the same room as their parents at the Velas Resorts in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit, while children 16 and under can stay and eat free at the Riviera Maya resort. Nightly rates start at $190 at the Velas Vallarta Suite Resort in Puerto Vallarta, $394 at the Grand Velas Riviera Maya, and $425 at the Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit. Amenities include suite accommodations, a la carte gourmet meals, a fitness center, a kids’ club, evening entertainment, gratuities, activities for adults and children, and much more. For more information or to make a reservation, please call Velas Resorts at 1-888-323-4294 or visit www.velasresorts.com.

8. Save 15% at the Kalinago Beach Resort in St. George’s, Grenada

The Kalinago Beach Resort in St. George’s, Grenada is offering a 15% discount off of rack rates between June 20th and July 15th. Located on the white sands of Mourne Rouge Beach, the Kalinago Beach Resort boasts luxurious accommodations, panoramic views, and a tranquil atmosphere. Visit www.kalinagobeachresort.com or call 473-444-KALI (5254) for more information about this offer.

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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!

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!

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.

Julia Scott at WalletPop is highlighting the great airfare deals to Hawaii, Vegas, NYC, and more that Virgin America, Southwest and United Airlines are offering. With United Airlines all destinations, including London, Paris, Hawaii, Mexico, and the Caribbean, are on sale.

Speaking of airfare deals, Air Tran is offering some pretty good deals right now. You’ll find airfare for as little as $44 one way, according to Terri Gruca of KVUE News.

Rent a car that’s miles away from the airport, and you could save a lot of money, according to Christopher Elliott. His article today explores how to avoid airports’ sky-high car rentals in today’s Seattle Times.

An 8 day fly and drive package to Tuscany in the NYTimes includes a seven-day car rental, six nights in a hotel and breakfast daily, starts at $949 a person with departure dates of March 31 and April 7.

Hilton Hotels is offering up to 33 percent off Friday through Sunday stays at more than 520 hotels and resorts worldwide for weekend stays through Dec. 26, must be booked by Jan. 31.

Truth.travel shows us how to get a free companion ticket to Barbados on American Airlines

20 perfect getaways for Valentine’s Day for our friends in or traveling to Europe

Get half-price tickets to Off-Broadway shows such as “STOMP,” “The Fantasticks,” “Avenue Q” and the new “Venus in Fur” in New York City. The “On the House” deal from NYC & Company, the city’s marketing and tourism organization, offers 2-for-1 tickets to more than 20 Off-Broadway shows for February performances.

$17 a night and up for a hotel room in Las Vegas, but these hotel rooms are going fast, so book NOW!

For more great travel deals, be sure to follow @BesTravelDeals on Twitter and subscribe to this blog’s RSS feed.

The Washington Post today is featuring a round-up of great spring and summer cruises for this season. From excursions to Albania or week-long ventures in the Bahamas, to a European river cruise down Germany’s Elbe River, this guide will give you some great ideas on how to plan your own getaway.

A couple of great discounts and travel deals are highlighted in the Dallas Morning News, including Southwest’s double Rapid Rewards credits for paid flights to and from Florida for travel through March 9. Other deals you will want to keep in mind is Amtrak’s 20% off winter fares on many routes for tickets purchased by January 25, and Delta’s sale on bargain airfare to Europe from Dallas, under $600 for round-trip airfare to Paris, London, Rome, and Milan.

Cruise Planners have organized an exclusive event, the Cruise With World Famous Astrologer/Psychic David Wells. David Wells, billed as one of the world’s leading astrologers, psychics and “past-life therapists,” announced this week he’ll be hosting a voyage focused on the topic for the first time in June on Royal Caribbean’s Liberty of the Seas. The seven-night group sailing, organized by a branch of travel agency Cruise Planners, is on the ship’s June 13-20 departure out of Miami.

$45 a night for the New Orleans: Parc St. Charles Hotel. The hotel is located next to Lafayette Square, the second oldest park in New Orleans, and sits within walking distance of Riverwalk Marketplace, Audobon Aquarium of the Americas, Harrah’s Casino, and scores of world-renowned art galleries and restaurants. What’s more, the French Quarter, Louisiana Superdome and Ernest N. Morial Convention Center are all within five blocks of the establishment, and the hotel’s prices are good through the Mardi Gras celebration.

The Chicago Tribune highlights the great deals on skiing in the Midwest, detailing ample options for downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and tubing. Families can put their kids in special winter programs and share in outdoor activities such as sleigh rides, dog-sledding and hiking, all the while inhaling clear country air and without incurring the cost of traveling out of state. Michigan, Illinois, and Wisconsin locations and prices are covered, and there are a number of great midweek packages for even bigger discounts!

The Guardian has a special section in travel called ‘Beenthere’ where people can suggest travel tips and highlight deals that might otherwise be overlooked. In today’s comments, one member points out how to save significantly on tours in Japan, by using the web site called “Tour Guide-interpreter Search System” maintained by Japan’s own Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, which can connect you with a licensed Tour Guide directly, saving you both time and money.

And of course, you can add to the discussion both here on BestTravelDeals.net and over at twitter, where you can follow @BesTravelDeals.