How to Plan a Vacation Without Breaking the Bank

As an innkeeper and go-to-gal for two Baltimore, Maryland bed and breakfasts, and a twenty-something with a chef husband who loves to travel whenever possible, it breaks my heart to see friends and family give up that much-needed summer getaway this year.  I know the economy stinks, gas prices are climbing along with layoffs and the unemployment rate.  But give up those precious days of pleasure, rejuvenation and pure freedom and the inevitable mid-summer doldrums are sure to banish the sunshine and blue skies of the season, leaving you in a depressing rut.  But don’t despair.  It’s not too late and you can afford it!  Pack your bag, it’s time to get you some “me time.”

Tip #1: Sometimes it pays to procrastinate.  It’s Thursday afternoon, the bills are paid, the house is clean, the work week is winding to an end… no weddings or graduation parties scheduled over the weekend, no pressing matters to keep you in town and the weather forecast is nothing short of perfection.  Pick a city within a two or three hour drive and hit the web.  Hotels and bed & breakfasts offer amazing last-minute deals.  Think of us like a cruise ship (another great last-minute vacation option – more in that another day).  We have a certain number of rooms and a minimum number of staff.  If percentage of those guest rooms are sitting vacant, we’re losing money.  We need your heads in our beds.  Chances are, if we still have several rooms available tomorrow night, you’ll get a deal.  There are tons of resources out there for last-minute vacationers.  Subscribe to www.BedandBreakfast.com’s Hot Deals for last-minute deals from B&B’s across the country, delivered straight to your inbox every Wednesday.  

Tip #2: You catch more flies with honey… or something like that.  Not flies necessarily, but you’ll catch the good graces of the innkeeper, hotel concierge and anyone else you may bump into while making your vacation plans and along your travels.  I cannot tell you how many times I’ve taken a few bucks off a room rate or upgraded a guest to our nicest suite just because they smiled and thanked me with sincerity and kindness.  You can hear a smile on the phone, I honestly believe that.  And you know when someone is truly authentic, appreciative of your service and excited about their stay and life in general.  Don’t underestimate the power of kindness.  Not only can it save you moolah, it can get you reservations at exclusive restaurants, an insider’s scoop on the best local scenes, top-notch service, and maybe even a friend for life.  They will remember you when you come back, and you will want to come back again and again.