Chicago under $60 each way

By Clara Bosonetto

For the AJC

Get to the culture rich town of Chicago this winter or spring at a bargain airfare rate of just $58.80 each way (rate is inclusive of all taxes, fees).

This exclusive Delta offer (frequent daily nonstop service) is valid Mondays through Saturdays on trips started on or after Feb. 12. The final permitted day of travel at this rate is May 23.

Give at least a one-week advance notice of travel.

There are some blackout dates to avoid: Feb. 16-21; March 29-April 9.

Get moving quick on this offer -- it won't last long.

Chicago's official tourist website, should be a first stop in putting together your ideal weekend.

Two additional websites, www.bookit.com and www.hotelscombined, are also useful when shopping for the best rates on lodging.

Sale airfares are always subject to change. Every seat on every flight is not offered at the lowest rate. Since only a limited supply of seats is available, act quickly to make your purchase.

I recommend starting the search for available seats at Kayak.com vs. calling an airline directly. You can also search for the sale at travel Web sites such as Expedia or Travelocity, etc.

Airlines can discontinue or pull a sale price without notice when the offer does not have a "ticket-by" date or when the offer is deemed "sold out."

Clara Bosonetto is a retired travel consultant.