Los Angeles might be world famous for its glitz, glamour, and star-studded sidewalks, but there’s no need to blow your budget in order to have fun in LA. Contrary to what celebrity gossip blogs would have you believe, cost-free recreation in LA isn’t limited to searching for celebrity homes in Beverly Hills or hoping you run into Jennifer Aniston at Starbucks.

LA may not be a bastion of culture like, say, New York City, but it is teeming with fascinating, world-class museums. And on certain days of the week or month, you can enjoy LA’s best museums at no charge.

The Children’s Museum in La Habra

Are you traveling to LA with children? Then you won’t want to miss the Children’s Museum in La Habra, which offers free admission on the first Saturday of each month. Even adults will have fun at this lovely little museum, which features exhibits like the Dino Dig, a sandbox with hidden bones; a kid-friendly theater where the kids can play with costumes and props; and the Family Art Center, where family members of all ages can unleash their creativity.

The Museum of Contemporary Art in Downtown LA

The Museum of Contemporary Art in downtown LA is free every Thursday from 5pm to 8pm. MOCA, as it’s known to locals, features a permanent collection with works from major art movements of the 20^th Century, including pop art and abstract expressionism. If you’re into weird, innovative, and daring art that pushes the envelope, you’ll find all that and more at MOCA. Plus, MOCA’s located near the Grand Central Market, Little Tokyo, and other popular downtown attractions, so it’s a convenient stop for travelers.

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) features works that encompass the history of art from ancient times to the present. The museum features over 100,000 pieces from around the world, including an extensive collection of Latin American art. The LACMA is free on the second Tuesday of each month.

The Craft and Folk Art Museum

Explore cultures and ideas from around the world through the universal lens of art at the Craft and Folk Art Museum (CAFAM). This small museum is one of the most overlooked institutions on so-called Museum Row, but visitors rave about its distinctive exhibits, which present art in a social and cultural context, and its affordable gift shop, which is full of colorful trinkets and treasures from around the world. The CAFAM is free on the first Wednesday of each month.

The National History Museum

The Natural History Museum in Exposition Park, downtown LA, is a fascinating museum that protects over 35 million specimens dating back 4.5 billion years. The museum’s Discovery Center features fun, interactive kiosks where you can dig up fossils, touch minerals and furs, and investigate specimens with magnifying glasses and telescopes. Among the museum’s permanent collection are Dinosaur Galleries, an Insect Zoo, and a Gem and Mineral Hall.

Thanks to ATMs and credit cards that are accepted all over the world, it’s now possible to travel overseas without carrying gobs of cash or traveler’s checks. But to ensure that your money works for you and not against you while you’re globetrotting, follow these tips and prevent bank fees from taking a bite out of your travel budget.

Open an Account at a Major Bank (And Tell Them You’re Traveling Abroad)

First things first, open an account at one of several major banks that has partnership agreements with overseas banks, so you don’t have to pay ATM fees when you withdraw money. For example, if you have a Bank of America account and ATM card, you can use ATMs at Scotiabank in Canada, BNP Paribas in France, and Santander Serfin in Mexico without paying fees.

Keep in mind that if you have a major bank account and use a non-partner ATM, you’ll be charged an ATM out-of-network fee (typically $5) by your bank and a bank ATM fee by the bank abroad. Community banks, credit unions, and online banks don’t charge the ATM out-of-network fee, however. Some banks, such as most online banks, automatically reimburse you if you are charged bank ATM fees.

Also, prior to heading abroad, be sure to call your banks and let them know of your travel plans. If a charge for a seafood dinner in Jamaica suddenly shows up, your bank may suspect fraud and freeze your account until they can confirm that it was a legitimate transaction. And as a precaution, take at least two forms of payment (e.g., a debit card and credit card) with you when you travel, in case one isn’t accepted or gets lost or stolen while you’re away.

Get a Credit Card That Doesn’t Charge a Foreign Exchange Fee

Both Visa and Mastercard charge a percentage fee on all foreign transactions, in addition to the one or two percent that your bank charges. This fee of approximately 3% can add up quickly, and generally applies to credit, debit, and ATM transactions. The only way to avoid it is to get a Capital One, Chase, or Discover credit card, which waive the foreign exchange fees.

Get the Best Exchange Rate

For the best exchange rates, make purchases with your debit card or credit card. The exchange rates that credit/debit cards offer are comparable to what you see published in major newspapers.

Withdrawing money at an ATM is the second best option. Whatever you do, don’t exchange money at the airport because the rates are terrible and they charge high fees. Instead, exchange cash at a local bank prior to your trip.

Before You Go

In addition to opening a bank account at a major bank, calling your bank to let them know that you’re hitting the road, and exchanging some cash for your “just in case” stash, be sure to do the following things before your trip to get your finances in order:

• Find out if ATMs are easy to find at your destination
• Determine if the ATMs in the country you’re visiting will accept the cards you have
• Find out if credit cards are widely accepted
• Write your card numbers and your bank’s emergency telephone numbers in case they get lost or stolen
• Set up automatic bill payment or sign up for online banking so you can make sure that your bills are paid (and late fees aren’t accumulating) while you’re away

So, there you have it. Bank fees can add up quickly over the course of your trip, especially if you’re embarking on an extended journey. With some advance preparation, however, you can keep your finances in order and ensure that there’s more money in your pocket for seafood dinners, pina coladas, and all of those other delightful things that only money can buy.

According to the Bureau of Transportation, US airlines made $2,566,695 in revenue from baggage fees in 2010 alone. But get this: most passengers are paying hundreds of dollars in fees that they could avoid altogether with some advance preparation.

Want to avoid paying an extra $30 to $50 in checked baggage fees, or worse, the exorbitant fees charged for overweight luggage? Follow these 10 tips for avoiding checked baggage fees so you can buy a nice steak dinner with that cash instead.

1. Travel light – and then take only half of what you pack

The best possible way to beat checked baggage fees is to travel light and avoid checking baggage altogether. Use compression bags or packing cubes so that all of your belongings fit into a carry-on suitcase. If you’re an avid reader and tend to travel with several books, you can lighten the load by switching to a digital reader.

2. Fly on airlines that don’t charge for checked luggage

The majority of airlines now charge for checked luggage, but Southwest allows two checked pieces of baggage per passenger and jetBlue allows one checked piece of baggage per passenger. Fly Southwest or jetBlue when possible to avoid paying hefty checked luggage fees.

3. Become a frequent flyer program member and earn as many miles as possible

If you become an elite member of some frequent flyer programs, your checked baggage fees will be waived. For example, US Airways waives luggage fees for preferred members of its Dividend Miles program, as well as for Star Alliance Silver and Gold status members. To earn more miles and reach elite status faster, sign up for credit cards/debit cards that award miles every time you use them and shop with airline partners.

4. Take a digital scale with you on your travels

Using a digital scale will help you avoid overweight luggage fees when you travel. The Balanzza Mini is light, compact, and easy to use, and you can easily store it in your bag.

5. Ship your belongings in advance

Shipping belongings in advance is another way to avoid paying checked baggage fees, although you should only do it if your luggage is relatively light and you’re traveling within the country. For example, if you’re only taking some clothes and other basic items with you, stuff them into a Priority Mail Flat Rate box and ship it to your destination ahead of time.

6. Find out if you qualify for a discount or fee waiver

Many airlines waive checked luggage fees for first class passengers, active duty military members, unaccompanied minors, and certain credit card holders. Find out what your airline’s policies are because you may qualify for a discount or waiver, too.

7. Rent sporting equipment at your destination

Going on a golfing, ski, snowboarding, or surfing trip? To avoid paying exorbitant fees for oversized items, leave the bulky sporting equipment at home and rent equipment at your destination instead.

8. Wear your luggage

You probably don’t want to wear five layers of clothing on the plane because it would be excruciatingly hot, but you can wear your belongings if you use travel clothing, such as the SCOTTeVEST travel jacket, which features 37 pockets and is compatible with the Macbook Air and iPad.

9. Find a hotel that’ll cover the fees

Several hotel chains offer their guests room credits to offset the cost of checked baggage fees. For example, if you show proof of an airline checked baggage charge when you check in at any Kimpton Hotel, you’ll receive a room credit for one bag (up to $25).

10. Choose a lightweight suitcase

Lightweight suitcases are an essential item for anyone who travels frequently, not only because they’re easier to carry, but also because they’ll allow you to fit more in your luggage while avoiding overweight baggage fees. Suitcases made with state-of-the-art materials, like polycarbonate and ballistic nylon, aren’t cheap but they’ll help you avoid overweight luggage fees for years to come.

Ski season has already begun at most ski resorts in the US, but it’s still not too late to sign your kids up for a free season of skiing. To encourage more families to hit the slopes, many states are offering “Passport” programs, which allow middle school skiers and snowboarders to ride free for anywhere from a few days to an entire season. Some of the programs are only open to state residents, while others accept all children that meet the age requirements, no matter where they live. The following are some states that are currently offering this program:

Vermont

Vermont’s Fifth Grade Passport program allows fifth graders to ski at downhill and cross country resorts throughout the state for up to 94 days at no charge. There’s a $10 processing fee, and Passport holders must be accompanied by a full-paying adult.

Utah

Members of the Ski Utah Fifth Grade Passport program can ski free for three days at each of the 14 participating resorts. Utah also offers a Passport program for sixth graders, which allows members to ski free for one day at each participating resort. Passport holders also qualify for special deals on equipment rentals, lessons, and more. Currently, the application processing fee is $25, but it will go up to $35 after January 31, 2011. The Fifth and Sixth Grade Passport programs in Utah are only open to state residents.

Colorado

Colorado fifth graders can ski free for three days at each of 21 participating resorts. For a one-time fee of $99, Colorado sixth graders can ski free for four days at each participating resort. The deadline to sign up for the Colorado Ski Country USA 5^th and 6^th Grade Passport Programs for the 2010/2011 season is January 31, 2011.

New York

New York’s 4^th Grade Ski & Ride Passport program allows fourth graders from any state or country to ski free for three days at each participating resort. There is a $19 processing fee. Passport applications will be taken till March 1, 2011.

Idaho

The Fifth Grade Ski or Ride Free program in Idaho allows fifth graders, no matter where they live, to ski or ride for free at any participating resort for a $20 processing fee. Applications will be taken through March 15, 2011, or until printed passports run out.

Maine

Maine’s WinterKids Passport is available to all fifth, sixth, and seventh graders who reside in Maine. The Passport offers free and discounted tickets, lessons, and rentals at participating ski resorts, ice skating rinks, and snow tubing parks. Maine children in preschool through fourth grade are eligible for the WinterKids FunPass, which offers free trail passes at cross country skiing and snowshoeing areas throughout Maine. There is no application deadline or processing fee for either program.

Photo Credit: Russell Preston- http://www.flickr.com/photos/russellpreston/4317448341/

As the weather starts cooling down, you might want to think about heading somewhere tropical. How does a vacation in the Bahamas at an all-inclusive resort sound?  Best Travel Deals has the ideal fall getaway package for you. Book a 4-night reservation at the Viva Wyndham Foruna on Grand Bahama Island by October 8, and they’ll knock 50% off the regular price ($779). Rates start at $299 per person AIR INCLUDED with promotion, and the hotel by itself only costs $83 per person per night. This offer is good for travel dates through October 28. Plan your fall vacation today.

Photo Credit: Frederick Dennstedt- http://www.flickr.com/photos/fredcamino/2541222378/

MegaBus.com announced a new bus route today, providing Northeastern U.S. residents with the cheapest bus fare this side of the Mississippi. For as low as $1, travelers can commute directly from Providence, Rhode Island to New York City. To celebrate the launch of the new route, Megabus.com is offering  1,000 free seats during the first month of travel, beginning Wednesday, August 25. Customers must enter the promo code: LUVPROV when booking their trip.

Megabus.com, a subsidiary of Coach USA, launched in April 2006 and has served more than 6 million travelers. In addition to low fares, Megabus patrons can enjoy 56-seat single-deck buses, free Wi-Fi, power outlets and restrooms.

With the economy floundering and discretionary income shrinking, many Americans are giving up on the notion of taking their annual family vacation. Fortunately, if you’re a wine connoisseur, you don’t have to spend a small fortune to enjoy a vacation à la Sideways, complete with fine dining, winery hopping, and wine tasting. Argentina is an up-and-coming wine lover’s destination that feels like Napa Valley did 30 years ago. The dollar goes a long way in Argentina, so you can plan an action-packed vacation in Argentine wine country on a budget.

Tips for Planning a Trip to Mendoza, the Cradle of Argentina’s Wine Industry

Mendoza is a charming, historical town with the towering, snow-capped Andes as its backdrop. The run-off from the peaks of the Andes irrigates the arid landscape.

Mendoza is only a quick one and a half hour plane ride away from Buenos Aires. The province of Mendoza is ideal for growing wine because of its soil, altitude, and geography. Mendoza is said to produce the best Malbec in the world. Malbec grapes, which were brought to Argentina from France, thrive in Mendoza’s climate.

Whether you’re a budget traveler who’s accustomed to traveling on a shoestring or a well-fed wine aficionado with a taste for five-star lodgings, you’ll find accommodations to suit your needs and tastes in Mendoza. Some popular hostels for budget travelers include Break Point, Itaka House, and Damajuana Hostel. To stay in the lap of luxury during your Mendoza getaway, book a room at the Cavas Wine Lodge, Club Tapiz Hotel, or Park Hyatt Mendoza Hotel, Casino, and Spa.

To get around Mendoza, you can rent a car, use the city buses, or custom design your own wine tour with a company like Uncorking Argentina. When you design a custom wine tour, you can mesh winery touring with other activities of interest, like golf or hiking.

If you plan on visiting wineries independently, grab the “Camino de las Bodegas” map for 30 pesos at any wine store in Mendoza. Tours at Mendoza’s wineries typically last from one hour to one and a half hours, so you’ll probably manage to visit three to four wineries in one day. Although many wineries do not require you to reserve in advance, some do, so plan ahead by calling and reserving a spot. A wine tasting room where you can get a good introduction to Mendoza wine is the Vines of Mendoza tasting room, where you can savor the best wines from all over the region.

Mendoza boasts full-bodied red wines that go particularly well with fatty cuts of meat. Some gourmet restaurants in Mendoza that you don’t want to miss include the 743 Bistro, Almacen Del Sur, 1884 Francis Mallman, and the Grill Q Parrilla Argentina at the Park Hyatt.

Taste Torrontes Wines and Bike through Desert Landscapes in Cafayate

Cafayate is a rising star in the Argentine wine scene. Located southwest of Salta city in Salta province, northwestern Argentina, Cafayate is a favorite of adventure travelers and wine aficionados alike.

The route from Salta city to Cafayate is breathtaking, as it takes you through the Quebrada de Cafayate, which boasts desert scenery reminiscent of Utah or New Mexico. In the tranquil, picturesque town of Cafayate, you can enjoy leisurely afternoon strolls or rent a bike and cycle to various wineries in the area.

Cafayate is famed for its Torrontes grapes, which are white grapes that produce a spectacular Chardonnay. Torrontes grapes do particularly well in Cafayate because of its sunny climate, cool evening temperatures, and high altitude. White wines made with Torrontes grapes are known for their intense notes of tropical fruit and flowers.

A magnificent hotel in Cafayate is the Patios de Cafayate Hotel and Spa, which has been rated as one of the top 10 wine spas worldwide. A former colonial estate, Patios de Cafayate is on the same grounds as the El Esteco winery. Treatments at the hotel’s spa incorporate ingredients like wine, carob, quinoa, and cactus.

And no visitor to Cafayate should leave without tasting wine ice cream! Cafayate’s wine ice cream, a distinctly Argentine treat, comes in robust flavors, like Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon.

New York City might be one of the most expensive cities in the world, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you have to subsist on hot dogs, cheese pizza slices, and pretzels for your entire stay. There are plenty of quality eateries in New York where you can get a scrumptious meal for less than $10 a piece.

If you’re traveling on a budget, you’re probably going to have very little left in your pocket after paying for a hotel, attractions, and transportation. But fear not. Take note of these 8 cheap eats before your next trip to New York and you’re sure to keep your daily dining costs in the double digits.

1. Chennai Garden – 129 East 27th St between Park and Lexington Aves – (212) 689-1999

Who can go wrong with an el cheapo South Indian buffet lunch complete with appetizers and fresh, baked bread? The Chennai Garden restaurant in Gramercy serves up a delightful kosher/vegetarian lunch buffet for only $6.99. That’s right. For the cost of a humongous latte, you can get lunch – and a darn good one, too.

2. Baoguette – 37 St. Marks PI between Second and Third Aves – (212) 380-1487

Baoguette, an increasingly popular joint that currently has two outposts in the city, serves classic Vietnamese dishes. Their sloppy bao, spicy beef pho, and banh mi are each a steal at less than $10.

3. Calexico Carne Asada – 122 Union St between Columbia and Hicks Sts, Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn – (718) 488-8226

You’ll feel as if you’re sampling authentic street food at a scenic street stall in Mexico City as you savor the luscious pulled-pork tortas and carne asada tacos at Calexico. Calexico is a California-style taquería founded by the Vendley Brothers of none other than Calexico, California. Even if you’re anti-animal flesh, you’ll find plenty of dishes on the Calexico menu that will tickle your vegetarian fancy, such as tofu tacos and burritos.

4. Great NY Noodletown – 28 ½ Bowery (Bayard St), Chinatown – (212) 349-0923

Enjoy roast duck on rice, vegetables in oyster sauce, and other delectable Cantonese delights at this Chinatown favorite. The restaurant itself isn’t exactly a sight for overworked eyes, but the food is excellent and the locale’s open until the wee hours.

5. Corner Bistro – 331 West Fourth St (Jane St) – (212) 242-9502

One thing you’ll almost always see at the Corner Bistro in Greenwich Village is a long line… because a beef patty on buns has rarely ever been this good – and this cheap! There’s no better way to fill up after a long day touring the city than with a classic burger, crispy fries, and an ice cold brew at the Corner Bistro.

6. Arepa Arepa – 160 Havemayer St between South 2nd and 3rd Sts, Williamsburg, Brooklyn – (718) 388-5797

Get your fill of the savory, grilled Venezuelan corn cakes known as arepas at the redundantly-titled Arepa Arepa, a Brooklyn staple. Sink your teeth into hot, crispy arepas with a variety of unique fillings, including tilapia, shrimp, chorizo sausage, and mushrooms.

7. Artichoke Basille’s Pizza & Brewery – 328 E 14th St between 2nd Ave and 1st Ave, East Village – (212) 228-2004

For $4, you can get a ginormous slice of pizza made with fresh, quality ingredients at Artichoke Basille’s. The shining star of their menu is the – you guessed it – artichoke and spinach pizza, which is topped with tender artichokes, aromatic spinach, and healthy doses of cheese and creamy white sauce. Other scrumptious varieties of pizza available at Artichoke Basille’s include margarita, crab, and Sicilian.

8. Vanessa’s Dumplings – 118 Eldridge St between Grand St & Broome St, Lower East Side – (212) 625-8008

Whether you want to start your meal with 4 delicious dumplings for $1 or a Peking duck sandwich for a mere $2.25, a $10 bill will take you very far at Vanessa’s Dumplings. It’s a no-brainer that this dumpling joint is always packed; it’s cheap and thoroughly agreeable to the taste buds.

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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