It’s that time of year again! When talk around the office turns to how much vacation time you still have on the books. It’s not too late to plan a last minute getaway and avoid the inevitable “honey do” list if you use that vacation time to do work around the house. I read an article this week that put the value on unused vacation days in America at $272 Billion (yes, Billion, with a B) up 21% from last year.
If you are one of the many Americans not utilizing the benefit of your paid vacation days, what are you waiting for?
Here are 5 hot destinations to stretch your vacation budget and use those days in 2016 before you lose them!
#1 – London – Since the Brexit vote the value of the British pound has continued on a downward spiral. The good news for you is that your dollar goes a lot further now than it did this time last year in the UK! London is an easy hop for those of you who don’t have a full two weeks to spend abroad. Full of culture and fun it’s an easy destination to get away for a short vacation to reconnect with your spouse while you catch a broadway quality show and enjoy the pub scene.
#2 – Cuba – Still a new destination for many Americans this iconic destination can be a great value if you travel by sea. Consider the convenience of a Fathom cruise as you sail from Miami to three ports around this island, meet the people, hear the stories and of course, ride in one of those classic cars! On a side note there has been talk of Cuba’s border being cut off to Americans pending the election outcome, so if this is something that is high on your list, you might want to plan that trip sooner rather than later.
#3 – A river cruise visiting the European Christmas markets – in years past these ships would fill up months and months in advance. More recently so much inventory has been added with the release of new ships that believe it or not, there are still a few cabins available for sailings between Thanksgiving and Christmas this year. There are some wonderful promotions for European airfare during this time as well – there is no better time to experience Europe via the rivers!
#4 – Iceland – who knew that a country with the word “ice” in it’s name could be such a hot destination? Sure it’s winter, so the days are short – but that makes conditions ideal for the possibility of viewing the Northern Lights! With a short flight time from the US we are seeing interest in Iceland skyrocket for the coming months.
#5 – A repositioning cruise – Now is the time that the mass market cruise lines are repositioning their ships from Europe, Canada and Alaska to winter in the Caribbean. We have seen 17 night cruises that visit up to 8 ports in 6 different countries for as low as $148 per person per night! For those who dread the long flights involved in a European vacation this may be the option for you. Fly to Rome then cruise back to the US and you will be home before you know it as you fly in from Florida.
Hopefully I’ve given you some food for thought as you make plans for the rest of 2016. Don’t let the benefit of your vacation days go to waste. The travel professionals here at Slaydon’s Travel are ready to help you make the most of your vacation time. Click here to get started using those days before you lose them!
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