Carol Weaver

Spend Your Bucks Wisely - President's Day Tips for Finding Affordable Vacations

From Reagan's communication skills to Washington's leadership, call on presidental experience to help you plan and enjoy your next vacation. With carefully planning you can make the most of those presidents hanging out in your wallet.

The nation's attention has been focused on all things presidential for many months. With new leadership in place, perhaps it's time to use some of the country's 44 leaders as inspiration for finding affordable vacations this President's Day:

Guide your group in a new direction -- Like George Washington, don't be afraid to break away from the tried-and-true and look for new places to visit, stay, eat and shop. Beach vacations have a reputation for being pricey, but a trip to the Alabama Gulf Coast can be an affordable escape for the whole family. And if your group is comprised of hearty souls who like to brave the great outdoors there are plenty of sites for tent camping -- without the brutal temperatures and conditions of Valley Forge.

Give your trip some thought -- John Adams was known for his philosophical approach to life. Take a cue from him and use this approach when planning your visit to the Alabama Gulf Coast. Perhaps you can decide how to stretch your vacation dollar by deciding what's most important to you and those traveling with you. For example, is it more important to be beachside in a smaller space or to have a larger space that's inland a bit? Do you need to find nearby restaurants, or do you want a place with a full kitchen to prepare your own meals? If you are flying in, what's the best day to arrive and the best day to depart? Making small adjustments such as these can have a big impact on how far your vacation dollar goes.
 
Declare your independence -- Instead of counting on an agent to plan your trip, devote a little time to doing your own legwork. Direct contact with a facility might get you an unexpected bargain. Thomas Jefferson found writing easier than public speaking, so follow his example and send an e-mail. To get a list of properties in the area, check with the local visitors bureau.

Vigorously pursue your goals -- Theodore "Teddy" Roosevelt was known for his dedication to action, and you can take a cue from him in tracking down deals for President's Day specials. Because this is a day out of school for those with children of that age, an opportunity arises for a long weekend. Some systems might add teacher in-service days and grant a mini-break. Check for discounts on airfare, specials on lodging, even coupons for local restaurants and attractions.

Emulate the "great communicator" -- Ronald Reagan was known as "The Great Communicator," and you can use your communication and networking skills to help you track down bargains. Get in touch with friends and see if they have resources you have yet to tap. Ask for recommendations on places to stay, sites to see, shops to visit and tours to take.

Embrace change -- With its first African-American president, Barack Obama, now in the White House, America has seen history first-hand. Follow that lead by daring to try something new and different. Check out a new area, eatery or attraction this President's Day.

Resources for planning a budget-friendly vacation that will leave you feeling positively presidential without putting you in a deficit can be found at www.thebeachiscalling.org. 

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