Tips to score an airfare bargain

Is it still possible to find cheap airfares? With prices rising and airlines raising fees on everything from ticket changes to checked bags, it's no wonder that a lot of travelers are talking about staying home this summer. But it's still possible to score cheap airline tickets.

Here are some strategies to help keep your costs down.

Book directly with the airline: Taking a page from the hotel industry, airlines have begun to guarantee equal or better prices to travelers who book with them directly. This helps save on commission expenses they would otherwise pay to third-party booking sites such as Orbitz or Expedia.

Moreover, some airlines -- including Delta, American, United and Continental -- offer compensations such as a $50 or $100 voucher for a future flight if passengers find an online fare lower than the one the airline offers on its own site for that flight.

Sign up for private price cuts: Not unlike clothing chains that dole out "family and friends" discounts to employees and repeat customers, airlines quietly offer coupon codes to travelers who sign up for their weekly newsletters or frequent flier programs.

Airfarewatchdog.com, which monitors such deals and posts the codes on its Web site, notes a recent increase in deals, including new promotion codes in Alaska Airlines newsletters every few weeks with savings typically of 20 percent.

"The downside to this strategy is you'll get a lot of extra e-mails," said George Hobica, the founder of Airfarewatchdog.com. But given the savings, he added, "it's worth it."

Buy one ticket at a time: Every flight normally has a range of price levels. Often, there are only a couple of coach seats offered at the lowest prices. When you shop for multiple tickets and there aren't enough seats available at the lowest ticket price, the reservation system automatically kicks bookings up to the next price level.

Make your computer do the work: If you don't have time to sift through dozens of airline newsletters for deals, sign up for fare alerts. Nearly every online travel site, including Travelocity.com, Kayak.com, Orbitz.com and Expedia.com, offers its own version. Some airlines, including American, Southwest and Canada's WestJet offer deal alert software, which must be downloaded onto your desktop.

There is also a new Web site, Compete4yourseat.com, that encourages travel agents, who often negotiate contracts with airlines, to find you a low fare. Travelers fill out a Trip Request form on the home page and click Go. Once your request is bid on by a travel agent, you receive an e-mail message and can log in to view the deal.

Buy a package deal: Travelers can often get a better deal with a vacation package instead of buying their airfare and hotel separately. That's because airlines and hotels are often more willing to offer deeper discounts when airfare prices are wrapped into a package. That way, their competitors can't see how much they're slashing rates.

"Certain hotels allow me to provide greater discounts if creating a package," said Jay Rein, president of Travelworm.com, an online travel agency that specializes in casino, resort and other leisure destinations.

"It's sort of like when you go to Best Buy. You can buy individual stereo components or a big box with the receiver and speakers for one low price."

Orbitz estimates that travelers can save an average of $228 by booking a five-night air-and-hotel package instead of buying those components separately.

Search for flights at alternative airports: Depending on the distance from your home to the airport, using smaller, regional airports can sometimes mean savings. A recent Orbitz search for a flight from Midway Airport in Chicago to Orlando, Fla., turned up a ticket on AirTran Airways for $223 round trip for a June weekend getaway. The lowest price for the same trip from O'Hare International Airport was $321 on United.

Be flexible: You can often save by adjusting your travel dates by a day or two. Travelocity, Zuji.com and other sites offer flexible date searches that show the lowest airfare for your route as much as four months out.

Timing is everything: To help evaluate prices, Kayak.com offers a trend chart (after a search), which shows whether prices for a particular flight have been going up or down or holding steady. Farecompare.com displays the lowest published fare over the next 11 months for flights to more than 200,000 destinations.

If the prices are bouncing around by $100 or more a few times a month, make sure you buy on a downswing.

Farecompare.com shows a 30-day history bar chart so you can quickly check volatility. Another site, Farecast.com, predicts whether prices will go up or down in the next week.

Don't wait if you see a deal: "If you see an airfare and it looks good to you, don't shop -- buy," said Rein of Travelworm.com.

"It's like wandering around the shopping mall. You can walk to the next store looking for a deal, and the next, and by the time you walk back it might be gone."

By Michelle Higgins

Royal Caribbean announces names for newest class of ships

MIAMI (AP) - Royal Caribbean International has announced the names of its newest class of cruise ships.

The Miami-based cruise operator said Friday that Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas were chosen in a "Name that Ship" contest. The names were submitted by George Weiser, of Livonia, Mich.

Oasis of the Seas will hold 5,400 passengers. It's expected to be the largest cruise ship in the world measuring 220,000 gross tons. Its launch date is set for late 2009 and will dock at Port Everglades.

Allure of the Seas will launch in 2010.

Both are part of the brand's "Project Genesis."

Braving the San Juan Islands - without a passport

Q: We'll be flying to Seattle next month and then taking a ferry to Orcas Island. We hear that we'll need a passport for the trip. Is that true?

A: Last we heard, Orcas Island had failed in its myriad attempts at secession and will remain, for now, one of the San Juan Islands, a treasured part of Washington state. But we know whence your confusion comes.

"There has been some negative press about a couple of random Homeland Security checks in some of the state ferry terminals," said Robin Jacobson of the San Juan Islands Visitors Bureau ( www.visitsanjuans.com, (888) 468-3701), in a very diplomatic characterization of what has no doubt been a PR nightmare for her. Why? In February, border agents began randomly asking passengers on domestic ferries to demonstrate their citizenship. According to authorities, the San Juans' proximity to Canada means that terrorists could be plotting to use the same waters that rumrunners and other nefarious types have plied since crime immemorial.

But "U.S. citizens traveling within Washington state" - and that includes the San Juans, remember - "do not need passports, only their usual personal ID, like a driver's license," said Jacobson ( www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries, (888) 808-7977).

Which is not to say that each of the three most popular islands in that lush archipelago doesn't boast a healthy dose of the exotic. There's the rural and elegant Lopez, dramatic Orcas and, of course, bustling San Juan.


Q: We will be in Italy during the Festival dei Due Mondi in Spoleto this summer and would like to attend some events but are having trouble getting information.

A: Searching for a reason why this world-renowned arts festival would have trouble getting the word out about its summer offerings, we came across the Spoleto Web site, which until recently gave no mention of a forthcoming program, then later had information but only in Italian, and then finally, a few weeks ago, launched an English-language site ( www.festivaldispoleto.it).

"Giorgio Ferrara, the artistic director, has decided to give great attention to the French dramaturgy," said Marco Guerini, a Spoleto spokesman. Ferrara was installed in his post just in November, the festival having been in flux since the death of its founder, Gian Carlo Menotti, last year. That may account for some of the sluggishness.

But now, Americans "can buy tickets in advance on our Web site," Guerini said, meaning that you can click on a link there to Ticket One, the Italian company handling Spoleto tickets ( www.ticketone.it).

The storied Umbrian town 80 miles north of Rome will play host, from June 27 to 13, to new productions of works by Debussy and Marivaux, a much-anticipated Robert Wilson staging of "The Threepenny Opera," performances by the London Symphony Orchestra and a new work by Savion Glover, a "great tip-tap dancer of his generation," as the Web site puts it.

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Pauline Frommer's Top Budget Destinations for Summer 2008

At a time when fuel, food, and even the price of postage are more expensive than ever, an affordable summer vacation may seem to be slipping out of reach. But there are still plenty of places, both in the U.S. and abroad, where travelers can enjoy beautiful beaches, outdoor adventures, wine tastings and spas, and unique cultural experiences -- without breaking the bank. Below are my ten top budget destinations, from romantic getaway spots to family faves to exotic destinations for adventurous travelers.

Here they are, in no particular order:

Berkeley Springs, West Virginia

America's first spa town -- even George Washington came to take the waters here! -- is still a delightful and very affordable spot to get pampered. At the historic Bath House in Berkeley Springs State Park (tel. 304/258-2711; www.berkeleyspringssp.com), a soak in 102-degree thermal waters and a Swedish massage starts at just $40.

Berkeley Springs offers quaint shops, horseback riding, golf, excellent hiking (in nearby Capacon Resort State Park) and, of course, lots of history. Many travelers combine a stay here with the Washington Heritage Trail self-guided driving tour, which follows the first President's footsteps through the Eastern Panhandle of the state. Area accommodations are reasonable, starting at $70 (down to $45 in nearby Martinsburg), and even less if you camp.

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Minnesota

One million acres of wilderness traversed by 1,300 miles of canoe-able waters makes Boundary Waters a spectacularly beautiful area and a top pick for nature lovers and fisherman. The fecund waters here are fin to fin with trout, walleye, bass, and northern pike.

Experienced outdoors people simply grab a canoe, a fishing license ($17-$24), a camping permit (done by lottery, average $44 per group), supplies, a tent and go. For novices, local outfitters like the Rockwood Lodge (tel. 800/942-2922 or 218/388-2242; www.rockwoodbwca.com) in Grand Marais will supply all equipment and food for 2 to 4 adults for 5 days for $342. Other reputable outfitters and tour companies include Wilderness Outfitters (tel. 800/777-8572 or 218/365-3211; www.wildernessoutfitters.com) and Gunflint Northwoods Outfitters (tel. 888/226-6346 or 218/388-2296; www.gunflintoutfitters.com).

Midcoast of Maine (Rockland, Maine)

Rough and tumble Rockland now boasts a blossoming arts scene, helmed by the superb Farnsworth Museum (a top-notch collection of American art with works by Maine natives Andrew Wyeth and Louise Nevelson). You'll also find a slew of small galleries and a fine dining scene spearheaded by an enterprising group of Culinary Institute of America grads. It's also one of the two top harbors in Maine for Windjammer cruises; kayaking is terrific, too. Since it is so centrally located, it's a good jumping-off point for visits to pricier resort areas like Kennebunkport, Bar Harbor, Acadia National Park, and Camden. Rockland offers a wealth of mom-and-pop motels and cute little inns; it's not difficult to find places to stay here, in the peak of high season, for as little as $85 a night.

The Wisconsin Dells

Let's hear it for "The Waterpark Capital of the World!" More than 20 waterpark resorts soak visitors in this scenic city on the Wisconsin River. That comes to more than 200 waterslides combined, as well as watercoasters, ocean-wave simulators, raft rides, and extreme tubing for all ages. Day passes to the larger waterparks are usually around $30 to $35; check the Visitor & Convention Bureau's website at www.wisdells.com for complete listings and links to area parks. Room rates at the big resorts can be steep but less expensive motels abound, with rates starting at just $40 per night.

The Oregon Coast, including Willamette Valley

The choice for romantics: Inland lies Willamette Valley, a winery-laden mecca for oenephiles and foodies (and a much cheaper vino experience than Napa). Towards the sea is a misty, beautiful coastline dotted with lighthouses and historic towns (such as Astoria, the oldest community west of the Mississippi River).

Highlights include the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area; Yachats, an artistic community with excellent eats and un-crowded beaches; and along the coast, spectacular fishing, wildlife viewing, and leisurely beachcombing and kite-flying. An Oregon Pacific Coast Passport (tel. 800/551-6949; www.oregon.gov) grants access to all of the state and federal parks and recreation areas for only $10 for a 5-day pass or $35 for an annual pass. Many area accommodations are moderately priced from $75 a night, cheaper if you camp.

The Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is the king of the affordably priced, all-inclusive package destinations, especially during the summertime when all Caribbean isles slash prices to lure visitors.

SuperClubs' Breezes Puerto Plata Resort, Spa & Casino (www.superclubs.com) offers package deals that include accommodations, all meals and premium brand cocktails, unlimited use of sports facilities, and hotel taxes, with no tipping allowed. A recent price check yielded rates of $70 per night per person from June to August. Also, CheapCaribbean.com (www.cheapcaribbean.com) has a selection of all-inclusive packages starting from as low as $499 per person for 5 nights.

Newfoundland, Canada

Newfoundland remains an almost criminally overlooked destination in Canada. This craggy island, known as "The Rock," offers some of the country's best views in the summertime, when you can spot icebergs, puffins, and whales off the Bonavista Peninsula. St. John's is a small, bustling city that makes a good jumping-off point for exploring the foggy Avalon Peninsula, home to puffin colonies and caribou herds. And Gros Morne National Park (a World Heritage Site) offers excellent bird-watching, fishing, and hiking. Campground fees range from $18 to $30 (tel. 877/737-3783 or 514/335-4813; www.pccamping.ca). To save the most, avoid conventional hotels and stay instead in the tiny B&Bs that dot the region and sometimes charge as little as $50 a night.

The Maya Riviera, Mexico

Sparkling white sand beaches, cerulean waters, Mayan ruins, and dozens of water sport opportunities have long made the Maya Riviera a go to place for fun in the sun. In the past several years, a Hurricane Wilma-driven makeover has turned it into a playground for chic, luxury seekers as well.

The sheer volume of hotels and condos on this coast keeps competition stiff. But the air/hotel packagers are getting deals individuals can rarely match. Vacation Travel Mart (www.vacmart.com) is selling a full 5 nights/6 days at the Grand Oasis, including all food and drink, most activities and airfare from the U.S. from just $724. In certain lesser known areas, like the beautifully preserved Colonial city of Campeche, hotel prices drop to just $45 a night.

Peru

Peru is a country with a surplus of great adventures, many of them an excellent value for the money. From Cusco, a scenic train journey can take you to Puno and Lake Titicaca, where you can visit the floating islands of Uros on a day trip ($12) or enjoy a true cultural immersion by staying overnight with a family ($15).

The most elegant city in the county is perhaps Arequipa, known for its white volcanic stone buildings and a worthwhile jumping-off point for an excursion to the Colca Valley to observe giant condors. Southern Peru is a top surfing destination, and the Peruvian jungle is not to be missed -- enter in the north via Iquitos, near some of the Amazon's best lodges. For those interested in the famed Machu Picchu, local companies such as Peru Treks (www.perutreks.com) will take you on an all-inclusive 4-day trek for as little as $300; American-based companies such as Adventure Center (www.adventurecenter.com) offer 7-day Cusco and Machu Picchu tours for $595. Accommodations across Peru are largely budget priced ($30 a night on average), thanks to the backpacker hordes.

Bulgaria

The strength of the euro has made much of Europe a budget-buster for American travelers, but it's also an opportunity to explore less heavily touristed areas of the continent -- such as Bulgaria. Bulgaria, Europe's oldest state (established in 681), doesn't yet have much of a tourism infrastructure, but it's quite safe and boasts ancient monasteries and beautifully preserved medieval villages along with affordable spas and Black Sea beach resorts. Visit the country's tourism agency at www.bulgariatravel.org. Accommodations usually range from $50 to $100 for budget B&Bs and guesthouses and full Mediterranean meals can be had for just $6 or $7.

By Pauline Frommer

10 Tips To Making Plans For Summer Trip

By Arthur Frommer

We're on the brink of the summer travel season, and 10 recent developments or events might affect your travel plans:

Alitalia to Italy: Can you safely hang on to that Alitalia ticket you recently bought? Can you just as safely buy a future ticket on the financially troubled Alitalia? In the wake of political events, the answer seems to be yes. The recent election of Silvio Berlusconi undoubtedly means that Alitalia is secure for the next several months. Though he certainly isn't my favorite politician, Berlusconi is such a headstrong, stubborn egotist that he has already defied the European Community's categorical rule against bailing out insolvent carriers (by making an interim, $463 million loan to Alitalia). You can be reasonably certain that he will either not permit Alitalia to go under, or that he will create a new airline honoring the ticket obligations of Alitalia.

China: There's still time to squeeze in a trip before the Olympics. If you're having difficulty finding a tour package for a trip in June (about the only remaining time for an uncrowded China), you might want to consider traveling independently. The major Chinese search engine, http://www.english.ctrip.com/, has recently upgraded its English-language Web site to permit the sale of U.S.-to-China flights at advantageous rates, like a round trip between Chicago and Shanghai for $450.

Transatlantic flights: Consider using cut-rate Canadian carrier Zoom ( http://www.flyzoom.com/). In addition to operating from New York to London, it will soon offer flights from Fort Lauderdale and San Diego. And its airfares will be about $200 less than most other carriers.

U.S. river barges: Most Americans don't know that there are river cruises of the United States on barges (not those hokey, imitation paddle-wheelers that ply the Mississippi). Throughout the summer, cruises of various durations will be available on the Ohio, Cumberland and Upper Mississippi rivers, and the Texas-Louisiana Intracoastal Waterway, at rates averaging $300 a day. Contact: http://www.riverbarge.com/.

African safaris: Tour operators have resumed trips to the game parks of Kenya now that peace seems to have settled over the political situation there. One Canadian company, Lion World, is charging as little as $1,999 per person, including transatlantic airfare to Kenya, for a one-week safari. In my opinion, the length is perfectly sufficient for that activity. Phone (800) 387-2706 or (416) 920-5466.

Self-drive canal boats: For parties of four or more, consider a self-skippered, live-aboard boat for a two-week vacation along the narrow man-made canals of Europe. Contact European Boating Holidays at http://www.europeanboatingholidays.co.uk/ or (866) 606-5278.

Luggage allowances: There are increasingly strict rules for the number of suitcases, their dimensions and weight that are allowed on a flight. The rules are different for U.S. domestic flights, transatlantic flights and flights within Europe. The United States Tour Operators Association ( http://www.ustoa.com/) publishes such a chart on its Web site.

Canadian national parks: Tired of visiting Yosemite and Yellowstone? Give some thought to Banff National Park and Jasper National Park in Canada's province of Alberta. Though not quite as inexpensive as a U.S. park (admission for a family group is less than $20), they have spectacular views and hot springs bathing (in Banff) and extraordinary wildlife (in Jasper).

Alaskan cruising: With seagoing travel concentrated so heavily in European waters during the summer months, there are some indications that cruises of Alaskan waters may be losing business. Online Vacation Center, (800) 329-9002 offers sharp discounts, bringing the price down to $699 per person for round-trip departures in late June, from Seattle, of seven-night Alaskan cruises aboard the upscale ships of Holland America. And with airfares to and from Seattle generally lower than to Vancouver or Anchorage, these are excellent bargains.

European apartments: The rental of kitchen-equipped apartments is increasingly seen as a smart way to avoid the high costs of Europe. The various sources of European apartment rentals are experiencing heavy demand. One of them, http://www.rentalo.com/, is offering rates of $135 for two-bedroom apartments in Paris.

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