KUSA - Looking for the very best travel deals in 2012? Travelzoo's Senior Editor Gabe Saglie shared Travelzoo's Wow Deal Destinations for 2012 on 9NEWS 7 a.m.
1) Japan. Hungry for tourism following the March 2010 earthquake/tsunami disaster, Japan is trying to lure travelers by reducing rates up to 50 percent at 5-Star properties. Travelers can stay at 5-star hotels for less than $200 per night, including free extras.
2) The Mediterranean (for Cruising). Summer of 2011 was lean when it came to Europe airfare deals, Travelzoo anticipates the same trend for 2012. As an alternative, Mediterranean cruises provide a budget-friendly option for traveling to and throughout Europe. Many cruise lines will be sending a record number of ships to Europe in 2012, creating increased competition which means better deals for travelers.
3) Costa Rica. 2012 is Year of Sustainable Tourism, with increased deals to Costa Rica. Several airlines, including Delta Air Lines and JetBlue Airways, are increasing airlift to Costa Rica in 2012, creating more deals and greater accessibility for travelers. Hotels are also promoting aggressive deals to entice travelers. Additionally, the country's current economic environment allows travelers to really stretch the U.S. dollar.
4) Orlando. Orlando offers a budget-friendly, domestic vacation for families, singles and couples alike. Due to the number of hotels in Orlando, rates continue to be competitive, and in some cases, pricing is already 15 percent lower than last year. Travelers can also expect continued airlift and some new high-profile attractions from Universal and Disney in 2012
5) Thailand. Like Japan, Thailand is on the rebound from its fall 2011 floods. As flood waters recede, travelers can find an increase in deals to lure them back and in hopes to double their tourism numbers by 2014. Five-star hotels are promoting deals for $100 per night, including free extras such as massages and meals. Travelers can also flex the muscle of the U.S. dollar as $1USD has been equaling about 31 Thai Baht.
For more, please visit www.travelzoo.com.
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