3 On Your Side: Spring Break For Travelers On A Budget
By Jim Donovan
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Tired of the cold weather and thinking of planning a trip? For travelers hoping to stretch their dollar this spring, there's good news and bad news. 3 On Your Side Consumer Reporter Jim Donovan finds it all depends on your destination.
In the midst of a long winter, spring break probably can't come fast enough. First, the good news for travelers. Data from Expedia finds airfares to most top spring break destinations are mostly on par with or even lower than last year. That includes a ten percent drop in fares to Las Vegas, and lower fares to Florida airports including Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Tampa.
Fares to popular destinations in Mexico are also down from last year, including Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, and Acapulco.
Speaking of international destinations - the improved strength of the U.S. dollar versus the euro means traveling in Europe will seem less costly than it has in years. The downside? European hotels and heavily trafficked tourist areas will likely hike prices to compensate for the fluctuation in currency.
The biggest expense for most European itineraries is the transatlantic airfare, which despite the movement in currency and lower fuel prices, doesn't seem to be going down.
Travelers looking for international flair can also try Canada where the U.S. dollar is also going a little bit further right now, though after this winter, warm temperatures may be a greater travel priority.