BUDGET TRAVELER

United offers round-trip fare to Spokane for $320


For the Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Published on: 06/25/08

Do you consider yourself the ultimate budget traveler? Then you should know about a recent survey undertaken by AAA that looked at the average costs for two adults traveling together in specific cities across North America.

According to the survey, the average cost for lodging is $164 per night, double occupancy, and per day costs for two adults for meals is $80 - not including tips or beverages and based on full-service restaurants.

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Clara Bosonetto Maerz's column is published weekdays on ajc.com.


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When traveling by car, well naturally, AAA recommends visiting AAAFuelCostCalculator.com to estimate fuel costs and using the AAA TripTik(R) Travel Planner (now available to even non-members) to plan the most fuel efficient route.

The most expensive city for vacationers is Honolulu with an average per diem for meals and lodging is at $673 for two persons.

The next spot on the list is New York City at $606; Miami-Miami Beach, $370; San Diego, $361 and Las Vegas at $358.

Some of the most economical choices include Tulsa, Okla., with an estimated daily food and lodging cost of $179, followed by Albuquerque, N.M, $179; Wichita, Kan., $194; Oklahoma City, Okla., $194; and Fresno, Calif., $207.

Also falling in under the $200 a day mark for lodging and meals is the state of Idaho. Although considered a "cheap date" by locals, this destination ranks high on traveler's lists for its scenic beauty and the number of outstanding outdoor recreational things to do, see and experience.

And, today's best airfare deals take you close to the action.

An offer from United Airlines gets you to Idaho Falls at a round-trip rate of $335 - that's inclusive of every tax and fee. Give a two-week or better advance notice of travel. There are no minimum stays to meet and no blackout dates. United serves the Atlanta-IDA route through September 1. Service resumes for winter months on October 1. Flight routes require a stop and change of aircraft in Denver. You can add a stopover (four hours to a year) for an additional $56 per stop. You must choose this option when booking your ticket — not later. http://www.ual.com

Another great air bargain to get West is another from United Airlines to Spokane, Washington - just west of Idaho's summer playground of Coeur D'Alene (or to begin an adventurous 275-mile road trip north to Glacier National Park).

The round-trip rate of $320, inclusive of all extras, is valid on trips taken Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Saturdays only through July 31. Think that's a high price? Compare that $320 to Delta's $849 - it's lowest available price!

Give at least a two-week advance notice of travel and include a two-night stay. The stopover in Denver is not permitted.

http://www.visitidaho.org

http://www.experiencewa.com

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