Prices for flight tickets hold a lion’s share of the total cost of any trip, which means finding a good deal is important for a great travel experience while also saving money. Airlines offer great deals on flight tickets every day. This could either be a result of promotion deals or to gain an advantage over their competitors. In simple words, cheap tickets are available if you keep an eye out for them. There are a plethora of tips that you can follow to get the cheapest flight tickets possible. Following them the right way will save you a good amount of money that you can spend on the other aspects of your travel experience. No matter where you are traveling, here are a few tips that will help you find cheap flight tickets: Ignore the myths The internet is full of myths about finding cheap flight tickets that lead to nothing but garnering views. You have most likely seen a lot of them yourself as well, and these myths lead customers astray. Most sources use outdated and recycled common myths. Here are the most unrealistic and common myths for buying cheap flight tickets that you should ignore:

• Flights tickets are cheaper on Tuesdays
• Searching for flight tickets in the incognito mode of your browser gets you cheaper deals
• Cheap airfare is available at a specific time during the day

Be flexible with your travel date and time Prices for flight tickets keep changing as per general demand among consumers. For example, they will be higher at the time of the year that has holidays. These holidays can include the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Eve. Another time of the year with higher airfare is August as that's the month generally preferred by families who want to travel to Europe as it has a warm climate during that time. In addition, families also have the added advantage of the kids being on vacation from school. The math here is simple. If you fly during times of high demand, flight tickets will be available at higher prices. Instead, it is recommended to have flexibility concerning the travel dates. If you wish to visit Paris, do so in the fall or during spring. Paris has fewer people visiting during this time of the year, which means you will get cheaper tickets. Take advantage of student discounts Most airlines include various discounts on flight tickets for students. The general discount on airfare for students is between 20% and 30%. Some travel agencies like Flight Centre and STA Travel can be a great help in getting cheap flight tickets through student discounts. So, remember to flash your student ID when booking to avail great discounts. Fly budget carriers Flying from one continent to another was an expensive affair some years ago as most airlines had traditionally high prices. However, budget airlines these days sell tickets for long-haul routes at a cheaper rate, making it easier to get cheap tickets. For example, Norwegian Airlines provides great deals on tickets to Europe and Bangkok, and AirAsia provides great offers on tickets around Asia and Australia. Other Middle Eastern and Indian airlines offer cheap tickets to Africa and the Indian subcontinent. These days, budget airlines cover most of the world with their flight routes at substantially reduced costs. Use points and miles Airline reward programs offer various chances to get flight tickets, upgrades, and companion tickets at a cheaper rate, and even for free sometimes. Whether you fly every week or once a year, you should sign up for airline reward programs to avail of these deals. It is better to do so with US-based airlines as they are usually part of bigger airline alliances. Even if you fly through a different airline belonging to the alliance, you get credited with miles that you can use later. For example, if you travel with Singapore Airlines, you will earn miles with United Airlines as well due to their partnership. Similarly, if you travel by Air France, you will receive points or miles in your Delta rewards account. Book early, but not too early The prices for flight tickets tend to keep increasing as you get closer to the date of departure. However, there is a time window where airlines either decrease or increase their prices, depending on the demand. It is advised to book your flight six to eight weeks prior to your departure. Another option is to purchase flight tickets around three months prior to the departure. This tip is applicable for when you are visiting a particular location in the peak traveling season.

Bus tours are excellent ways of exploring some regions as they offer you the chance to experience new and unusual destinations without having to worry about navigation and driving. In many cases, taking bus tours to explore a destination has the added benefit of being accompanied by a guide. The guide can help you by narrating interesting insights and stories about the place you are visiting. Not to mention, the huge bus windows guarantee fabulous views. Advantages of bus tours One of the biggest advantages of taking bus tours is lesser costs. When compared to alternative means of travel, such as trains and planes, bus tours are much cheaper. Bus travel is an affordable option for most people, especially during holidays. Another advantage of taking bus tours is that you can take breaks during travel. Passengers do not have to request for breaks as bus drivers take brakes during long travels themselves. This is especially true for bus tours that span over multiple states. These stops are great for enjoying some fresh air, especially by the countryside. Bus tours that take the scenic route There’s a long list of captivating destinations that you can enjoy through bus tours. Here are some of the most scenic bus tours you can take across the country:

• Niagara Falls tours There are many bus tours that travel through cities on the northeast side of the United States to this iconic site. Niagara Falls is one of the world’s most prominent destinations, and it creates a spray that can be seen from quite a distance. This bus tour covers a great amount of distance across the country as it travels to the Niagara Falls located on the border of Canada and the United States.

• Grand Canyon tours Many bus tours travel from different parts of the country to this world-famous location. The Grand Canyon is among the world’s most visited natural attractions and is 300 miles long. Bus tours are the perfect way to travel to this iconic location, and there are many key sites that people visit all year round. One of the best spots across the canyon is Lipan Point situated on the South Rim. One of the most famous locations that many bus tours to the Grand Canyon start from is Las Vegas.

• Mount Rushmore tours This historic location is frequented by many bus tours. Mount Rushmore is a landmark that involves the faces of four American presidents (George Washington, Theodore Roosevelt, Abraham Lincoln, and Thomas Jefferson) covering 2 square miles. Bus tours that travel to this location come from far and wide, and cover a large amount of distance. Other parts of this bus tour can include Arches National Park. There are also options for bus tours with short day trips, which usually start from Hot Springs or Rapid City.

• Lake Superior tours Lake Superior lives up to its name as one of the largest lakes in the country. Its shores are in Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. Part of the shore is also situated in Ontario, Canada. Bus tours traveling to Lake Superior also cross many spots along its coastline. One of the best spots here is Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Most bus tours around the location cover around 1,300 miles in 10 days.

• Yellowstone National Park tours Yellowstone National Park is home to “Old Faithful,” better known as one of the world’s most famous geysers. Bus tours around the entire Yellowstone area will surely include this location on its itinerary. Apart from the destination itself, these bus tours make multiple stops over the course of the trip. These locations are awe-inspiring and enchanting sights. Another location that is much like Yellowstone is the Mammoth Hot Springs. It is another result of geothermal activity in the vicinity. There are many companies that organize bus tours that start from places like Los Angeles, Salt Lake City, and Denver.

• Hawaii Island tours The island of Hawaii is globally renowned as one of the best travel locations in the country, if not the world. While the general idea of a vacation in Hawaii is relaxing on a beach, if you want a better experience, bus tours are a great option. Most bus tours in Hawaii start in Honolulu and typically include the experience of locations like the Halona Blowhole and Diamond Head. The crowning jewel of bus tours to Hawaii is the view on Waikiki Beach.

Several regions in the country boast charming landscapes, watercourses, and landmarks. Train tours are among the best ways to enjoy these sights while traveling. There are many such tours that offer scenic routes along with great amenities. You can either take a tour in a single state or take a trip that goes across multiple states. Either way, train tours will give you a wonderful showcase of the country’s best views. Here are the best train tours in the country: Great Smoky Mountains Traveling through the mountains in a train is something that most people may have seen in a movie. While there are many other ways to enjoy the scenery of this exact area, train tours are most probably the best one. The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad passes through the enchanting Great Smoky Mountains range situated in North Carolina. This famous tour starts in Bryson City and then goes on to take the scenic route of the quaint mountain range to give the passengers an extraordinary view. You can also gaze upon the magnificent views of Nantahala Gorge and the Tuckasegee River. This tour offers a combined experience of wildlife and mesmerizing sights. This is why it is one of the most awe-inspiring tours in the country. Coastal Route Train tours on the coastal route span between the cities of Los Angeles and Seattle. While many people just opt for specific portions of the tour, the entire tour is a truly remarkable experience. A tour on the coastal route offers a memorable experience by taking you through national parks and along oceanfront cliffs. It also takes you through important cities like Santa Barbara and San Francisco. The total time taken to go from one end to another is approximately 36 hours. The amenities provided on the tour are lounges, cafes, dining cars, and sleeping cars.  Grand Canyon When it comes to natural landmarks, there are hardly any other places that can beat the Grand Canyon in its grandeur. Tours through the Grand Canyon give you a closer look at the geological marvel. It involves following a two-hour route that starts from Williams, Arizona, and goes all the way to the South Rim of the Canyon. This route began operating in the year 1901 and still transports people from all over the world through the landmark. The complete tour takes a little over 8 hours for a complete round trip and includes a four-hour stopover. Denali Star Tours along this route travel a total of 350 miles in a matter of 12 hours. The complete trip covers bewitching sights between Anchorage and Fairbanks. The view from the train allows you to gaze upon Hurricane Gulch, Nenana River Gorge, and Mt. Denali. Arkansas and Missouri Railroad You get a chance to experience the charming beauty of the Midwest region through tours running on the Arkansas and Missouri Railroad. You can get an up-close experience of the majestic Ozark Mountains. These tours offer a great visual combination of rugged terrain and colorful forests. This day-long round-trip is a great way to experience natural beauty. Southwest Chief Tours on the Southwest Chief allow you to travel through eight states including Arizona and New Mexico. Across these eight states, you will get to see the rugged landscapes of the Southwest region of the country. The view gets even better as most trains on this route have large windows. These train tours have top-notch dining and sleeping accommodations. The crowning jewel of the trip is the desert and mountain views. This is the reason why these tours enjoy immense popularity. As a result of the long distance to be covered, these train tours take a little over 40 hours to travel one-way. California Zephyr Tours on the California Zephyr route start from Chicago, Illinois, and go all the way to California. However, many travelers join the tour at Denver, among other stops on the way. Train tours on this route give you a breathtaking view of Midwest sights like the Rocky Mountains and rivers, along with cities like San Francisco. Zephyr is also the name of the train. It is an extremely comfortable train that has sleeping accommodations, multiple dining options, and double-decker cars. These tours are the perfect option if you want to have a cross-country experience. One-way distance of the tour takes around 51 hours to complete and offers a great blend of comfort and adventure.

With crystal-clear waters softly sweeping across the white sand beaches, the U.S. Virgin Islands is worth exploring. Located in the Caribbean Sea, this territory comprises of three main islands, which are St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix. Apart from these, many smaller islets add to the astounding beauty of the Virgin Islands. One of the most popular spots for a holiday, the U.S. Virgin Islands see tourists pour in all through the year for a fabulous beach getaway. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular Virgin Islands vacation package options for you and your loved ones. St. Thomas One of the most popular islands of the Virgin Islands, St. Thomas is the perfect getaway for a family holiday. With direct flights here, getting to this island is convenient. The lively atmosphere all around also makes this a great getaway for a group of friends. The capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands, the charming Charlotte Amalie is located in St. Thomas. Popular spots of interest include Magens Bay Park, Coki Beach, Blackbeard’s Castle, Butterfly Garden, Port of St. Thomas, and Paradise Point where you can ride a gondola up a mountain to enjoy spectacular views and shopping. Mahogany Run Golf Course is the perfect pit stop for golf enthusiasts. These places form a part of almost every vacation package to St. Thomas, so make sure they are a part of your itinerary. Vacation package rates od St. Thomas starts at from $800 per person and can go up to $2,000 for a more luxurious experience. This cost usually includes flight tickets, hotel stay, and taxes per person. Some vacation packages also cover meals. Some of the most popular resorts on this island are Mafolie Hotel, Lindbergh Bay Hotel and Villas, Emerald Beach Resort, Marriott's Frenchman's Cove, and Flamboyan on the Bay Resort & Villas. St. John If you want to slip away from the busy city life, St. John is the right island for you. This serene island will truly let you feel the break from the hectic routine and let you unwind. In fact, the beautiful St. John has often been compared to the stunning Caribbean in terms of the wonderful experience that it offers. A quick ferry ride from St. Thomas can get you to this Island. Popular things to do during your stay at this destination can include snorkeling, scuba diving, boat tours with dolphin spotting, and rainforest hiking, among others. If you are not keen on indulging in any of the mentioned activities, then you could simply unwind by relaxing at the beach the entire day. Caneel Bay Resort is noted to be one of the best accommodation options on this island. An interesting feature of this resort is that it has no televisions. This will help you be one with nature. Vacation package rates to St. John starts around $700 and can go up to $1,500. This charge includes flight tickets, hotel stay, and in some cases, meals too. The cost mentioned is per person. Look for group deals that will allow you to save more money on these vacation packages. Some of the best resorts here are The Westin St. John Resort Villas, Caribbean Villas of St John, Maho Bay, and Gallows Point Resort. St. Croix This is another isolated and idyllic island that is perfect for a solo holiday or a romantic getaway with your someone special. Popular for its hiking trails, St. Croix is the definition of magnificent natural beauty. The island is a short plane ride away from St. Thomas. Places of interest in St. Croix include Fort Christiansvaern, Protestant Cay, and the Estate Whim Plantation Museum. Popular activities on the island include snorkeling, sunbathing, boat tours, old forts visits, and much more. Though it is quiet and peaceful here, there is not a dull moment on this island. Vacation package options for St. Croix start from $800 and can go up to $1,500 per person. These include flight tickets, hotel stay, and taxes. Some packages also offer meals as part of the cost. Look for all-inclusive deals and vacation packages to make the most of your holiday. Some of the best resorts at St. Croix are Sand Castle on the Beach, Chenay Bay Beach Resort, The Fred, and The Buccaneer Hotel, among others. Remember that the U.S. Virgin Islands is an extremely popular tourist destination. It should be noted that you can expect tourists all through the year, especially around the holiday season. It is advised to book your stay and travel arrangements beforehand in order to avail the best deals as well as to ensure that you get a stay in a hotel of your choice.

Disneyland in California is a great place and is on many people’s travel bucket list. While many believe that Disneyland is an expensive affair, it can be made more affordable with the help of discounts. Buying Disneyland tickets on a discount can help you save money for other experiences. Here are some guidelines that you should follow to get the best deals:

• Buy only from a Disneyland authorized ticket seller One of the most important things about purchasing Disneyland tickets, irrespective of discount, is to buy it from a genuine dealer. Tickets to Disneyland are sold by authorized ticket sellers only. This guideline is extremely important as it is considered as an investment if you are all about great experiences. Like most highly valued goods, Disneyland tickets can be counterfeited too.

• Read all terms and conditions You should carefully go through all the terms and conditions before buying Disneyland tickets. Ensure that your tickets do not expire before your visit. Take a look at the transfer and refund policies. Additionally, pay attention to details, such as how will you receive them. For example, you may have to collect the tickets from the ticket booth or you may receive an e-copy of the ticket that you would need to print out.

• Check authenticity If you suspect that the offers received on your Disneyland tickets are too good to be true, chances are that might be true. There are no steep discounts on these tickets. This is especially true in the case of 1-day passes.

• Disneyland parking Disneyland tickets provide a wide range of parking options for guests. These options are specified on the Disneyland website. The fee required for self-parking a standard vehicle is around USD 25 (per day) and parking at preferred spots for a standard vehicle is around USD 40. All you need to do to upgrade to pre-purchased parking is pay an additional fee of USD 15.

• 1-day passes are rarely discounted Single-day Disneyland tickets are sold at a discount on rare occasions. The best way to buy a one-day ticket is by making the purchase directly at the resort. However, specific groups like students, teachers, and military personnel among a few others can get discounted one-day tickets through certain associations.
• Kids under the age of 3 are free Disneyland is all about new experiences. As a result, they have made this easier by not charging children under the age of 3. Children from the ages of 3 to 9 require a child ticket for admission. Meanwhile, any child above 10 years of age requires an adult ticket to visit Disneyland.

• Magic Morning Magic Morning is a major benefit that you can receive when you buy a 3, 4, or 5-day Disneyland ticket. It allows you to enter the park one hour prior to the opening. Mostly, Magic Morning are held on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays but it can vary as per the discretion of the park management.

How can you get discount Disneyland tickets? There are various schemes and associations from where you can avail a discount on Disneyland tickets. However, they are subject to availability and eligibility. Here are some ways you can get discounts on Disneyland tickets:

• Disneyland hotel packages If you bundle your hotel cost with the Disneyland park tickets, you are likely to save much more money. There is a wide selection of hotels near the park to choose from. These also include the Good Neighbor Hotels that are approved by Disney.

• Disney Southern California Select Passport For a limited amount of time, residents from Southern California can avail annual passes. These annual passes are for both Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure parks. However, these offers are only available on fixed dates. You will also get an additional 10% reduction for select dining and merchandise. The prices, in this case, start from USD 399 for individuals above the age of 3 years.

• American Automobile Association Disneyland tickets are available at slight discounts ranging between USD 8 to USD 14 for members of the American Automobile Association. These discounts are only available on 2, 3, 4, and 5-day passes.

• Military discounts Disneyland tickets are available at special discounts for military personnel. Both active and retired personnel of the military can avail these discounts.

• Group Ticket Discounts If you are traveling to Disneyland or Disney California Adventure Park with a group of 15 people or above, you can avail discounts on tickets. However, this offer is only applicable to groups belonging to qualified nonprofit organizations. You have to call the park to secure your discount. Furthermore, the Disney Youth Program offers Disneyland tickets to groups of kids between the ages of 3 to 22.

Brainstorming with the family over which holiday to go for next can be quite a task, but you know what’s the ultimate challenge? Getting them onboard for a ski vacation! Witnessing your kids go berserk on a roller coaster on a sunny day is so much more different than motivating them to learn an intricate hobby in cold temperatures. However, there is nothing more fulfilling than watching your kids embrace the thrill of this winter sport. Moreover, it is an incredible way to hone their qualities such as confidence, awareness, perseverance, and balance. Well, no one can promise you a family holiday in the mountains without its own set of hiccups, but we’re here to help you make it memorable despite the obstacles that you can come across. Here are some travel tips and tricks that can help you plan smartly for your next snow-blanketed adventure with your loved ones. Preparing for a family ski vacation Unlike a solo trip, where you can afford to be spontaneous, there are numerous arrangements to be made planning when a family vacation, especially when skiing is involved. To make this process as good as smooth sailing, here are some factors that you will need to emphasize on while planning a perfect family ski vacation.

• Location The location you pick purely depends on your budget and personal preferences. An international ski vacation in the Alps or Dolomites will obviously require you to make a generous investment. However, if you have a budget to honor as well as limited time then you can opt for a ski trip either in the Eastern or Western side of the country. In the US alone, there are approximately 500 ski locations scattered across 37 states which surprisingly also includes southern territories such as Alabama and Tennessee. So, you have plenty of places and options to choose from.
• Stay One of the best parts of taking ski trip today is that there are numerous resorts available that specifically only cater to families. If your kids are too young to ski, then look for places that offer other kid-friendly snow activities and daycare amenities. Likewise, the location of the resort matters a lot when you are traveling with kids as schlepping heavy gear can easily tire them out. It would be wiser to book accommodation that is in close proximity to the terrain so that kids don’t have to cover long distances with the ski equipment. Additionally, some ski resorts offer equipment rental and lift tickets at no cost for kids belonging to a certain age group.
• Alternative activities You have to consider the possibility that your kids might not want to ski after the first few attempts or the destination you intend to go might not have the right conditions for skiing. Fortunately, there are several ways to make the most of your holidays in the mountains. So, while planning a ski vacation, ensure that you have some nonskiing activities included in your travel packages, such as dog sledding, ice skating, ice-fishing, sightseeing and shopping, snowmobiling, and stargazing.
• Terrain For a gratifying experience, it is essential that you choose the right terrain, particularly, when this is your family’s first time skiing. For instance, Aspen (Colorado) isn’t the best pick for novices because this particular area encompasses multiple tricky terrains, suitable for advanced skiers. Learning to ski in such an environment can be extremely intimidating, especially for kids. To get off on the right foot, you should opt for locations such as Telluride (Colorado), Deer Valley (Utah) or Mammoth Mountain (California) which are abundant with beginner terrains.
• Ski school Enrolling the kids in a ski school is the best way to help them develop the right skiing technique. Ski lessons are typically arranged by the resort that you are staying in. Specialty camps, group, private, and semi-private lessons are some common options rendered by most ski schools. It is also crucial to remember that every resort will enforce different rules with regards to the minimum age eligibility, length of the lessons (half or full day), and how many beginners they include in a single session. It might be surprising but taking a private lesson as a family can be more economical than booking slots for the kids in a camp or a common group lesson.
• Insurance While all the dare-devilry on the slopes seems to be exhilarating it is important to make arrangements for your family’s wellbeing. Apart from the safety gear, it is also important to check the range of your medical coverage in case things goes south. If your current health plan doesn’t reimburse expenses for skiing accidents then consider travel insurance. Besides medical expenses, travel insurance can also protect you from damages involving misplaced or stolen luggage, personal liability, and lost holidays due to weather.
• Season The best time to enjoy a family ski vacation is during December and January as the snow conditions and weather are fairly predictable. Moreover, since the winter season lines up with Christmas and New Year’s, your family will get an opportunity to attend some fun events and festivals including concerts, torchlight parades, and fireworks. However, expect the ski locations to be crowded during this season as most kids are on a school break. If you make reservations any time after October then the prices of accommodation and air tickets will surge accordingly. Unable to make a booking during the peak season? Don’t worry! You can plan for a ski holiday in the month of February or March, however, avoid pushing it till April as most ski areas start closing when spring arrives.

Best family ski resorts Here are some of the most popular options for family ski resorts that you can consider for your next holiday. 10 top family ski resorts in the USA

• Jackson Hole (Wyoming)
• Aspen Snowmass (Colorado)
• Alta Ski Resort (Colorado)
• Beaver Creek (Colorado)
• Deer Valley (Utah)
• Telluride Ski Resort (Colorado)
• Taos Ski Valley (New Mexico)
• Sun Valley (Idaho)
• Vail Ski Resort (Colorado)
• Snowbird Ski Resort (Utah)

10 popular family ski resorts in the world

• Alpe d'Huez (France)
• Breuil-Cervinia (Italy)
• Åre (Sweden)
• Whitewater (Canada)
• Wengen (Switzerland)
• Gervais Mont-Blanc (France)
• Gstaad Palace (Switzerland)
• Ski Welt (Austria)
• Beaver Creek (USA)
• Madonna di Campiglio (Italy)

7 ways to save money on family ski vacations Enjoying a skiing adventure with your family in the midst of snow-capped mountains is a priceless experience, which unfortunately comes at a significant price. Pinning down an average estimate for a family ski vacation can be tricky business as multiple factors come into play including location, accommodation and meals, lift tickets, ski lessons, rental equipment, airfare, and ground transport. Needless to say, it is easy to blow the budget on a family ski vacation. Worried? Don’t be! The next time you plan to hit the slopes with your family, try these hacks to save big on your ski vacation.

• Get it right with the early bird packages There is nothing like relishing a last-minute travel deal, at the same time, waiting for one can be a bit of a gamble. So to be on a safer side, scour for early bird ski packages. Booking sites usually release these travel bundles by the end of May. You can save up to 50% on travel deals if you start making reservations before early October. Apart from the price factor, booking during this window will give you some wiggle room, helping you score the best of deals such as upgrades on accommodation and other amenities.
• Make the most of all-inclusive offers Shelling out money for an all-inclusive family ski vacation initially may come across as a big-ticket expense, but you will have almost no costs to bear during your stay at the resort. Typically, all-inclusive ski vacation comprises flights, ground transportation, lodging, meals and drinks, equipment rentals, and ski lessons. Some packages also might also cover off-piste guiding. Getting a package with lift tickets will also help you save some big bucks. Their prices can surge to almost $100 when directly purchased from the ticket counter. On the other hand, discounted lift tickets included in the ski packages offer almost 40% off on the original price.
• Get acquainted with all the discounts If you are independently organizing a ski trip for your family, then ensure that you are well-acquainted with all the discounts and deals offered by the ski resort. Numerous accommodations have special offers for big families, students, physically challenged individuals, and seniors. These deals can come to your rescue, especially if you have missed the early bird booking window.
• Try the shoulder season December and January are the best months for skiing, however, they are equally expensive. The Christmas holidays and winter break further amplify the demand for ski vacation packages during this period. If you want to steer clear of the steep prices and crowds, then you can plan for a skiing trip in spring or fall. However, ensure that you check your ski resort’s closing time and the area's weather conditions to avoid disappointment.
• Save on air tickets The classic trick of saving on flight tickets is by directly flying into a local airport instead of busy, domestic ones to avoid extensive road trips to the mountain or completely eliminate the need for a rental. However, this trick won’t work during peak seasons as the flights landing in the local airports are much more expensive. For example, if you have made reservations in Lake Tahoe’s ski resort during the peak season, then it would be cheaper to book a flight to Sacramento International Airport instead of Reno-Tahoe International Airport which is closer to the prime skiing locations. However, if you want to stick to the closest airport, then ensure that you buy air tickets well in advance to dodge the wrath of exorbitant prices.
• Don’t let the baggage get you down If you are bringing your own skiing and snowboarding equipment, ensure that you pick an airline provider that doesn’t charge extra costs for it such as British Airways and Lufthansa. However, the overall ticket prices offered by these airlines might be comparatively expensive. Another way to minimize any baggage expenses is by making airfare payments via an airline travel credit card so that you can get a waiver on a few checked bags. If you aren’t a frequent skier then it would be wiser to rent the equipment at the slopes. In case you don’t want to rent or buy skiing gear, then you can borrow it from family or friends.
• Pick a smaller mountain If this will be your family’s first skiing experience, then it is better to book a resort on a smaller mountain. Ski resorts and schools located near smaller terrains are often cheaper. However, ensure that the budget-friendly resort you choose has all the required amenities. It would be an added bonus if your resort is closely situated to the social establishments in town.

Popular, budget-friendly resorts If you are craving to spend some time with your family skiing without burning a hole in your pocket, then consider these popular, budget-friendly choices. 10 affordable family-friendly resorts in the country

• Copper Mountain (Colorado)
• Big Sky (Montana)
• Taos Ski Valley (New Mexico)
• Mad River Glen (Vermont)
• Steamboat Springs (Colorado)
• Heavenly Ski Resort (California)
• Schweitzer Mountain (Idaho)
• Cranmore Mountain Resort (New Hampshire)
• Red Lodge Mountain (Montana)
• Crystal Mountain (Washington)

10 budget-friendly family ski resorts in the world

• Serre-Chevalier-Briançon (France)
• Bialka Tatrzanska, (Poland)
• Kranjska Gora( Slovenia)
• Les Rousses (France)
• Vialattea (Italy)
• Arosa Lenzerheide (Switzerland)
• Obergurgl-Hochgurgl (Austria)
• Pamporovo (Bulgaria)
• Harrachov (Czech Republic)
• Kiroro Ski Resort (Japan)

Family ski vacations can be full of fun, adventure, and adrenaline. They also give you the chance to relax by the fireplace and cozy up with a book and some hot chocolate. Plan your trip well in advance to avoid hearing that the ski resort your family decided on is booked out. You are now armed with the sources you need and deals to steal.

Poets, songwriters, and artists have waxed eloquence about love since ages. It’s easier to tell your partner that you need their love seven days a week. But let’s face it - love and romance require some hard work. Whether you are in the initial days of your relationship or celebrating decades of being together, you will always need something extra to keep the sparks shining. Date nights can be one example of spending time together. But they might rarely be enough; unless you guys go through something that Tina Fey and Steve Carell went through in the 2010 film, Date Night. But a regular date night turning into a night full of adventure is best left to the movies. In reality, you need something to give you and your partner a break from your routine. So why not go on an amazing romantic getaway? A dash of fun and a sprinkle of adventure once in a while can do a lot to keep the romance alive. You can also spend some quiet time with your favorite person in a private resort to fall in love all over again. Here are a few romantic weekend getaway ideas - whether you're looking for getaways on Valentine’s or to celebrate your anniversary. Whisk your love away for a quick romantic weekend Looking for romantic weekend getaway ideas close to home? A quick romantic vacation can be a great way to take a break from the everyday hustle. You can plan a short and sweet surprise for your SO (significant other) by taking them away to one of the best getaways for couples across the country. Here are a few romantic places for a quick weekend getaway:

• Vintage Surfari Wagon, Los Angeles, California: Are you and your partner more of an adventurous kind? If yes, then this might be just be the perfect getaway spot where you can reignite the spark via road-trippin'. You can rent a VW camper bus from Vintage Surfari Wagons in California and hit the road leaving behind the humdrum for a couple of days. These retro buses from the ‘70s and ’80s are equipped with renovated interiors, a dining table, and a couch that can be converted to a full-size bed. These buses also have camping equipment, kitchen essentials, cleaning supplies, and potable water. You can either go on a pre-planned desert trip, or you can choose to cruise along your own route up Highway 1. The cost will range from $140 to $270 per day depending on the season and vehicle.
• Blackberry Farms, Smoky Mountains, Tennessee: If you and your partner are looking for a stress-free and tranquil mini-vacation, head out south to Blackberry Farms near Smoky Mountains, Tennessee. This 4,200-acre family-owned farm has been ranked number 1 by Bon Appetit magazine. And why not? It has one of the most extensive wine lists (160,000 bottles!). Moreover, you will get farm-fresh food, as the hotel sources nearly all the ingredients from its own kitchen gardens and farms. Sign up for couples’ activities like wellness workshops, cooking demonstrations, yoga, Zumba, and couples’ massage sessions. You can make the best of your romantic weekend by trying out something new with your partner. Go for kayaking, canoeing, fly-fishing, carriage rides, hiking, archery, paintball, biking, or horseback riding. For cost and other details, check the official website of Blackberry Farms.
• Firelight Camps, Ithaca, New York: Want to experience the outdoors, but with indoor comfort? Then glamping, an ultra-glamorous style of camping, might just be for you and your partner. Firelight Camps are situated on the grounds of La Tourelle Resort and Spa in Ithaca. The camp has spacious tents, all tastefully done up with plush beds, battery-powered lanterns, and artisanal furniture. Here you can spend some quiet time with your partner as the serene sounds of nature drift into the spacious tent. The tents are covered with mesh screens, so you do not have to worry about creepy crawlies getting in. With two restaurants and a bar with outdoor lounge areas, the camp offers romantic ways to enjoy your meals. If you are in the mood to explore the outdoors, you can simply buy snacks from the camp canteen and walk around. Get a S’mores kit from the canteen and spend the night under the stars near a bonfire. At just around $750 per person, you can bring your partner for a quiet anniversary getaway or even for a Valentine’s Day weekend getaway. Moreover, this modern way of camping can easily be one of the best Valentine’s Day getaways for 2019. Be prepared to use #relationshipgoals in all your pictures!

In the mood for an offbeat romantic break? You can opt for luxury hotel suites and glamping if you want an easygoing romantic vacation. But if you do not want to go where everyone is heading, you can go for something unusual, especially if you have more than a weekend to spare. Perhaps you can try gourmet dinner on the rooftop of a skylodge overlooking a cliff? Or are you more inclined toward adventure sports with your bae?Like being in the world’s coldest town where there is absolutely no cell phone network? You can pick these off-track romantic getaways if you belong to the school of YOLO. (You Live Only Once, for the uninitiated.)

• Skylodge Adventure Suites, Peru: Located, 1,200 feet off the ground level, Skylodge Adventure Suites is not for the faint of heart, and especially not for those afraid of heights. What’s more is that you have to hike through or use a zip line to get there. The lodges have clear glass walls. You can see the expansive scenery from a great height all through the day. The rooms have all the basic essentials. If you dare to go there, don’t forget to head out to the rooftop restaurant to enjoy a meal with a breathtaking, heart-thumping view!
• Oymyakon Valley, Russia: Winter Wonderland gets a complete twist here in Oymyakon Valley. Every inch of the town is covered in inches of snow, throughout the year. In the winter, daylight lasts for just 3 hours. Known as one of the coldest inhabited places in the world, the lowest temperature recorded here was -96.16 degrees F, in 1924. The overall day temperature is around -58 degrees F. But if you are looking for something totally private and totally adventurous, this is the town for you. Book a cozy cottage and get under toasty warm blankets to have a quiet night in. Or if you want to a dose of thrilling adventure, head out for a drive along the infamous Road of Bones.
• Jules’ Undersea Lodge, Key Largo: For all you water babies, Jules' Undersea Lodge in Key Largo is the ultimate place. It is one of the best weekend getaways for couples who want to experience the bottom of the ocean up close. Situated 30 feet deep, the lodge has everything that a plush hotel has to offer, with the added benefits of magnificent underwater scenes. To get to your room, you will have to scuba dive. You can experience marine life by joining night paddleboard tours. You can swim with friendly dolphins in Dolphin Cove or go parasailing and paragliding, all offered by the hotel.

Fancy a luxury romantic getaway? If luxury is what attracts you and your partner, nothing short of a deluxe romantic weekend getaway will do. What’s better than spending some delightful time with private pools, exotic spas, exclusive candlelit dinners? Nothing comes close to making your better half feel like royalty. Whether you have a big anniversary milestone coming up, or want to have a spectacular Valentine’s weekend, you can head out to one of these stunningly beautiful luxurious locales.

• St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort: With hand-crafted cocktails, rare wines, and live music performances all week long, St. Regis Bal Harbour offers the perfect setting for an intimate romantic weekend. You and your partner unwind and enjoy performances by up-and-coming contemporary artists to jazz musicians. It is also the ultimate couples’ spa retreat with Finnish saunas and world-class spa services. This five-star resort offers some of the most exclusive amenities to make your weekend romantic getaway an opulent yet low-key experience.
• Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain: If you and your significant other share a love for food, Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain will be the perfect Valentine’s Day getaway. Located in the desert city of Scottsdale, Arizona, this retreat is an epicurean’s delight. It offers a “Mi Casa, Mi Chef” program, which is a personalized gourmet experience. You will get to stay in a beautiful private estate facing the beautiful Camelback Mountain. A highly-skilled chef will create a customized dining experience just for you. Accompanied by the chef, you get to pick the choicest and freshest ingredients from the local farmer’s market. Love cooking? You and your partner can join your chef in the kitchen. Or you can just lounge in the private patio, drinking wine and enjoying the sunset as your chef whips up your personalized meal.
• The Chanler at Cliff Walk:  If you are looking for some old-world charm to fuel your romance, head over to The Chanler at Cliff Walk, Newport. This 19^th -century mansion exudes elegance and luxury. With just twenty distinctive rooms, it offers an exquisite and private experience to those looking for an intimate getaway. Every room offers a scenic view of the Atlantic Ocean. From personalized butler service, in-room Jacuzzis, to enjoying delectable meals at an award-winning restaurant, you and your partner will surely enjoy it here.

Bring the spark back in your romance at no extra cost Running low on cash? But still want to take your partner away on a sweet little romantic rendezvous? Worry not. Whether you are looking for a tropical paradise or mountain retreats, we have got some great romantic weekend getaway deals just for you. These are all-inclusive places where you can have the best time with your better half, and you need not stress over burning a hole in your pocket!

• Winvian: This luxurious rustic hotel is located in the midst of Litchfield Hills. Here, you can book a quaint farm cottage for yourself. You will have your own private patio with a view of the forest and lakes. The cottages have a warm ambiance with a woody décor and a fireplace. Jacuzzis, home-cooked breakfast, a luxe spa, a farm-to-table restaurant, and a lot of couples’ activities like horseback riding and cooking classes add to the old-school charm.
• Fair Hills Resort: This charming seasonal resort is perfect if you are looking for a serene getaway without the jazzy amenities. Located close to Pelican Lake in Detroit Lakes region, this resort has cabin-style rooms. Each room has a fully-equipped kitchen, private bathroom, and homely furnishings. This no-frills resort offers basic amenities at very affordable prices. The amenities include an outdoor swimming pool, hot tub, nine-hole golf course, water-based sports, indoor and outdoor games, and a casual restaurant.
• Red Mountain Resort & Spa: This all-inclusive resort offers the perfect setting for a quiet escape for couples. Located near the Snow Canyon State Park, this resort offers exclusive spa services at very affordable prices. You can book a charming room or a suite for yourself and your partner in one of the many low-rise buildings of the resort. The rooms are done up with elegant décor. They are also equipped with ensuite bathrooms, satellite television, and wireless Internet. The resort has a full-service bar, restaurant, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and a fitness center. It also offers a number of activities such as guided hikes, fitness classes, photography classes, rock climbing, kayaking, and horseback riding.

Not every couple is the same, neither is every relationship similar. But what remains constant is the need to keep the romance alive. What’s better than choosing to go on a perfect romantic getaway? A charming resort or an idyllic cabin house in the woods, just pick a place, get away, and watch those sparks from the first date light up again!

If it's great wine, scenic beauty and absolute luxury you seek for your next vacation, you cannot go wrong with Napa Valley. With 400 wineries, high-end resorts, cozy bed and breakfasts, upscale modern hotels, hot air ballooning, wine tasting, farmer's markets and even golf to boot, it truly is one of the best holiday destinations. Calistoga, Napa, St. Helena, Oakville & Rutherford, Yountville, and American Canyon are some of the towns in the valley and each has its own attractions. Calistoga is famous for its hot springs and mud baths; St. Helena is the picturesque one fine-tuned for the shopper in you; Oakville & Rutherford have some of the best Cabernet & Chardonnay wines in Napa Valley; Yountville is for the culinary fiend; Napa has some great night life and American Canyon is family friendly. A great place to just relax and simply soak in the culture, Napa valley is best enjoyed from the fine Bed and Breakfasts that pepper the locale. Whether it’s old world charm you seek or modern architecture that does it for you, there is something for every taste. Here’re three B&Bs that are worth every penny you've saved up for a vacation. Embrace Calistoga, 1139 Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga, CA 94515 – Blending old world luxury with modern day amenities, this European-style luxury inn, reportedly has one of the finest breakfast spreads in the Napa Valley region. Run by innkeepers Brent Riederger and Chris Johansen, it only has 5 rooms with each designed in a unique yet muted style. Hennessey House, 1727 Main Street, Napa, California 94559 – The Victorian architecture complete with saunas, spas, wine tours and tastings and of course a range of activities makes this one of the best places to vacation at. A short walk to the main attractions, like the Oxbow Market and Napa Valley Wine Train, simply sweeten the deal. With ten rooms making up the entire place owners Kevin and Lorri Walsh have earned the reputation of offering a relaxed vacation experience. Maison Fleurie, 6529 Yount St., Yountville, CA 94599 – Literally the “flowering house” the architecture is reminiscent of the sunny South of France. 13 rooms complete this boutique B&B that is a part of the Four Sisters Inns Classic Collection, and each room is a blend of modern luxury amenities and European charm. Located in a secluded part of Yountville the B&B is a welcome break from the high energy hotels and accommodations in the area.

Train travels are adventurous yet so nerve-wracking, especially when in an unknown foreign country. The perplexing schedule, inability to understand signage, bustling stations, and undetectable platforms, when it comes to train travel in a foreign land, there is so much that you must be mindful about. However, train travel also makes for an important part of a holiday and contributes to creating the most memorial experiences. It provides you with a comfortable journey while also making for some great sight-seeing. If you follow a few tips and essentials before planning train travel, you may rest assured of a seamless journey even in a foreign country. Here are some tips to ensure you have the best train travel adventure abroad. Plan in advance - Planning ahead is the key when taking on any journey. Ensure that the required tickets and confirmation emails are all printed and in place before taking off on the train journey. The time taken to reach the train station must be considered while planning how you would get there. Preparing in advance will ensure a hassle-free trip. Be on time - It is common to run behind schedule when on a holiday; however, on days of train travel, it is essential to keep track of time. The train must always be boarded as early as possible with the luggage kept in sight. Also, keep note of the time when the destination will arrive. This will help in knowing when exactly you would have to get off. Have the essential supplies - There is nothing better than having some key supplies that will aid in passing time when on long train journeys. When embarking on journeys that will run beyond two hours, a travel journal, tablet or an interesting book could help to keep you engaged. While most trains have travel carts that sell snacks and drinks, it is wise to pack some food if you have special dietary requirements. Know about ticket validation - In some locations, such as Europe, the train tickets must be validated before the train is boarded. Typically, stations hold validating machines wherein one must just insert the ticket and the same is stamped with the date and time. Traveling with a ticket that is not validated can lead to getting fined by an onboard inspector or train conductor. Thus, it is essential to check if a ticket needs to be validated before travel to avoid any issue.

There is no dearth of travel sites on the Internet which will let you books hotels at your preferred holiday destination. These travel websites require you to make bookings in hotels according to your budget and other preferences. However, most of these popular travel sites require you to pay fees for making hotel reservations and even charge a cancellation fee if you decide to cancel your trip at the last moment. Though these travel sites reduce the burden of making reservations by eliminating all the intermediate factors, you’ll have to make payments for booking and canceling. Moreover, not all the transactions on such websites are transparent; you might be charged additional fees or have to pay more for a hotel room that is available at a lesser cost on some other travel site. Since most sites require you to shell out money, a travel website that has credible cash rewards programs and amazing discounts is a welcoming change. HotelGuides™ has an incredible cash rewards program, which will enable you to earn money on booking hotels! Read on to know more about the same. Cash rewards program HotelGuides™ has made over 5,000,000 bookings till date, and the users have received money in return for the bookings. According to the cash rewards program by HotelGuides™, when you make five hotel reservations, they’ll send you $25 in return. There is no limit to the number of times you can make the reservations. The travel site writes reward checks to the individual who makes the reservation. This means that you can book hotel rooms for yourself, your business, or any organization, and you can easily earn some extra cash this way. It is quite easy to get started with the cash rewards program. All you have to do is make a hotel reservation through HotelGuides.com and save your confirmation number, once you have five confirmation numbers, email these to rewards@hotelguides.com along with your name and contact number. You’ll soon receive a check for $25. Another highlight of opting for this cash rewards program is that it is in the form of an extra benefit, which means that the money you receive here will not be deducted from the traveler’s hotel chain rewards point. Also, you can send the confirmation numbers after completing the trip as these rewards do not expire. To reap the benefits of this cash rewards program, you can start anytime you wish.