3 On Your Side: Fall Travel Deals
By Jim Donovan
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Summer may be over but one of the best times to vacation is just getting started. 3 On Your Side Consumer Reporter Jim Donovan takes a look at what's called the "fall shoulder season" for travel, which can be a great time for you to find good deals.
We all know autumn brings falling temperatures but it's also a time for falling prices on travel. "The fall shoulder season is the sweet spot for travel," says Orbitz.com senior editor Jeanenne Tornatore. She believes that travelers seeking out fall color can get some great deals without venturing far from home.
According to Tornatore, "Gas prices are great right now, so you can still take a really easy fall drive getaway. The great thing about fall is there are so many regions of the country that have fall celebrations and beautiful fall colors."
But if you're not ready to give up on summer just yet, Tornatore suggests you take to the high seas for a budget-friendly tropical getaway. She says, "This is the time of year to book and take a cruise. You can book cruises very last minute and still save up to 60 percent."
Or if you're feeling really adventurous, Tornatore recommends heading abroad. She says, "If you've had Europe on your bucket list this is the year to plan and take that european vacation in the fall. Airfare prices are coming down and the dollar is still very strong against many of the European currencies, including the euro."
Tornatore also says it's a good idea to book trips in packages. Combining airfare with hotels or car rentals will save you money during the off season.
