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International Travel Need Not Be Costly, Say Travel Agents
02-25-2009ASTA travel agents find value overseas
Alexandria, VA- With the economy slumping and the overall national mood down in the dumps, it's more important than ever to take some time to reconnect with family and friends. One might think taking a vacation overseas is out of the question, but not so, say ASTA travel agents. The association recently surveyed its members about budget friendly international destinations and found that with a little bit of planning, even a small budget can take you a long way."People usually don't equate international travel with being budget friendly, but by tapping into the expertise of a professional travel counselor, a trip overseas doesn't need to be out of reach," said Chris Russo, ASTA president and chair. "A professional travel counselor such as an ASTA member will work with their clients on an individual basis to find the best value for them no matter their budget or travel dreams."
Overall, Mexico ranked as the most budget-friendly destination with three cities in the top five: Cancun (#1), Punta Cana (#2) and Puerto Vallarta (#4). Other cities that came in as budget friendly were London, which was ranked third overall, and Bangkok, which came in fifth.
Travel agents pointed to Cancun's close proximity to the United States and a multitude of all-inclusive offerings, as well as a favorable exchange rate and affordable airfare, in ranking the city as most budget-friendly. The same factors, in addition to inexpensive package deals, put Punta Cana into second place, while London scored the third spot due to its many hotel options and reasonable air fares. Interestingly, although Puerto Vallarta was cited as being "cheaper than other Mexican cities," the destination came in at number four. Bangkok rounded out the top five thanks to an excellent exchange rate, strong value for the dollar and shopping.
For more information on making the most of a travel budget, contact an ASTA travel agent or visit TravelSense.org for general travel tips and advice.
The mission of the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) is to facilitate the business of selling travel through effective representation, shared knowledge and the enhancement of professionalism. ASTA seeks a retail travel marketplace that is profitable and growing and a rewarding field in which to work, invest and do business.
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