It's countdown time to summer! Better start planning your summer holiday, especially with major hotel deals to be had. Still feeling the effects of a strained economy, the travel industry continues to offer incredibly low hotel deals but this may be the last year to find so many bargains. From tropical islands to exotic desert destinations, we've found the travel hot spots that will be offering exceptional value deals in 2010.
1. Costa Rica
A longtime Central American travel favorite, Costa Rica will be offering even more value-added travel deals for 2010. Unlike neighboring Caribbean countries, this tropical destination offersdeals for all travelers on a budget-from honeymooners to families to nature lovers. Summer is actually the low season in Costa Rica and while rain ponchos are a definite pre-requisite, you'll find the country's floral and fauna green as ever, the crowds low, and hotel rates even lower.
2. Dominican Republic
Dominican Republic. By Mercedes.. Life as I picture it
Nearby Jamaica may get all the attention and neighbor St. Barts may attract Hollywood celebs, but this Caribbean island nation has just as many white-sanded, turquoise water beaches as both- with resorts at a fraction of the price (the island's relatively undeveloped eastern coast offers the best deals). The summer months of July and August host the island's annual Merengue Festival, where you'll find the entire capital dancing up a storm - from the seaside malecón into the streets and bars.
3. Egypt
Egypt. By Michaeljohn
The Land of the Pharaohs has been an intriguing destination of travelers for decades, but a continued increase in value deals will entice travelers even more in 2010. While summer may be hot and muggy, if you can stand the heat (and a nonstop supply of SPF) you'll save big on deals during the low season summer months. This year, Egypt will open its northern Mediterranean coast broadening its aquatic playground from Alexandria to the Libyan border. It's not all about the desert here!
4. Las Vegas
Las Vegas. By ~مبـــــارك~[(QTR)]~Mubarak~
Sin City added an astonishing 6,000+ rooms in December alone with the opening of CityCenter. Not only did this add three new contenders for best Vegas hotel (ARIA, Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas, Vdara), but this sent hotel competition in Sin City through the roof, leading to even lower room rates. It may be sizzling hot in the Nevada desert during summer but you'll be guaranteed to hit the jackpot with super low hotel rates-from $20/night. Poker players will want to visit the Rio Hotel & Casino, where the World Series of Poker 2010 tournament will play during June and July.
5. Turkey
Turkey. By Steven Ford / snowbasinbumps
While Turkey may not be a hush-hush secret hot spot any more, the country is still relatively inexpensive and safe as ever. Not only will Turkey be one of the European Capitals of Culture in 2010 but the number of Turkish hotel deals keeps increasing - especially at five-star hotels. And while close to Europe, Turkey remains out of the Euro zone so taking your pick of historical activities between sea and mountains won't break your bank. Summer may be a scorcher but there's also a plenitude of art and music festivals during these months.
6. Vancouver & Whistler, British Columbia
Whistler. By janusz l
With the 2010 Winter Olympics torch already blown out, these Canadian winter wonderlands will continue to offer some of the best dining options and outdoor sports activities in the world during summer - with a boost of infrastructure and without the massive crowds. While American snowboarder Shaun White won't be found zipping down a half-pipe, travelers can still opt for hiking, kayaking and whale watching - or for music lovers, the Vancouver International Jazz Festival-during the summer months.
