Michigan Has One of the Best Late-Summer Vacations
Summer just started, but if you want to take a summer vacation, you’re a little late to the table. The good news is that you still have time to plan a late-summer vacation and get some sunshine in late in the season. Well, more good news is that Michigan has one of the best late-summer vacations in the U.S., according to some travel experts.
Michigan Has One of the Best Late-Summer Vacations
Our area has some great places to enjoy the summer, so it makes sense that we would also have one of the best late-summer vacations. Now, the experts at BeMyTravelMuse.com have put together a feature on some of the best places to travel in America in August, just as summer is starting to wind down. “Now is the optimal time to start your August vacation planning,” they note, which is very true. “That month’s heat might have you running to the beach or perhaps to the mountains to cool off.”
Their No. 1 pick for the best place in the entire country for a late-summer vacation is Big Island, Hawai’i. What makes it so great? Well, as they note, Big Island is “the largest, most diverse, and most adventure-filled spot in the state” with a lot of things to do. You can go snorkeling, hang out at the beach or more. “The balmy August temperatures also make it a great time to enjoy an evening stroll or stargaze on the K?lauea Iki Trail; as there’s very little rain during this time of year, you’re likely to catch an epic star-filled night,” they note. I like it. No. 2 on the list is also not in the continental U.S.: Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska. This spot, they note, is called one of the most beautiful places in the entire state. While you’re there, check out the beautiful and breath-taking glaciers.
So, which Michigan spot is one of the best for a late-summer vacay? According to them, it’s Mackinac Island, of course. I remember going to this spot as a kid, and it’s still such a fun trip for people of all ages. This area is totally relaxing, because there are no motorized vehicles on the island. BeMyTravelMusic.com notes that, “Summertime offers an abundance of opportunities to explore the area via boat, horse-drawn carriage, or bike, or on foot.” It has great temps in August, too. I agree that it’s a lovely spot, so I’m happy to see it getting some attention. Find some ways to save money on your next vacation below.
Secret Tips to Save Money on Your Next Vacation
1. Try to Negotiate Your Lodging
Did you know that hotel fees can be negotiable? Fidelity.com points out that, “You may be able to negotiate the online price by calling a hotel directly, or asking if they have any discounts for students, government employees, or members of certain groups, such as AAA.” So, don’t settle for that price you see on your laptop. Try to do better. It’s a secret tip that can pay off bigtime.
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2. Get Smart with Your Lodging
Did you know some hotels that are virtually the same, including the same brand, can be cheaper just a few miles apart? As a general rule, hotels that are near the airport are more expensive. So, you can look at the hotels you want to stay at and their multiple locations in the area for the best rate. “Some hotels that are under construction may rent rooms at a discount, which is a great option if you can deal with the noise,” Fidelity.com points out.
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3. Snack Your Way to a Cheaper Trip
Going out to eat on vacation can be one of the most exciting things about the trip. But, if you want to save on cash, skip a few meals out and opt for healthy, hearty snacks. Pack (or buy at a local store) some protein-rich snacks, like protein bars and meal bars, and limit your dining out. You can still enjoy some of the best food the area has to offer, just not as much of it. This is a way to stay fit on your trip, too. A lot of people don’t think of this tip, so it’s a bit of a secret.
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4. Timing is Everything
You’ve heard it so many times in life: Timing is everything. That’s true for travel, too. Research to find the least-busy times to visit your destination. If you travel during those downtimes, you’ll save big. While this is a common tip, something people forget is that every vacation destination has its own peak time. So, be specific for your travel spot.
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5. Travel with a Friend
If you’re thinking of traveling solo to a place you’ve always wanted to visit, go cheaper by traveling with a friend. You two can share lodging fees. Also, sometimes there are more deals and discounts for those traveling with multiple people. I always do this when going to a big music festival, if it’s far away. I’ll usually meet my friend there, and we share lodging costs. It also makes the trip more fun.
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6. Find Free Spots to Travel
Look for some free attractions in your travel area. Chances are, they won’t be as packed as the big-named places, too. You can still visit some of the popular landmarks. But, if you add a trip to a national park or free museum to your itinerary, it will save you some cash.
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7. Max Out Your Memberships
Are you a member of any random groups? You might have travel deals just waiting for you. Check everything, from your college alumni membership to your credit cards, for travel discounts. You may be surprised what you find.
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8. Don't Get Picky
Say you just want to get out on a fantastic trip, but you don’t really have a place in mind. That’s actually a good thing. Take an hour to look at flight specials happening right now. If you aren’t picky on where to travel, chances are you’ll find a great rate on airfare and lodging somewhere. Once you find the most reasonable place to travel, then you can start looking at what to do when you’re there.
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9. Go Popular
This is a bit ironic, but often times, the most popular tourist destinations are also the cheapest. That’s because there is a lot of competition for all those travelers. So, big-named destinations like Orlando, Florida, or Las Vegas, Nevada, tend to have really good travel deals. Go popular, or go home.
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