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The Gold Coast’s Economical Holiday Options
September 4, 2009 | Leave a Comment
As everybody knows at this point, cash is becoming increasingly difficult to save up and set aside for things other than basic living necessities. Thanks to astronomical prices for oil, being a car owner is an increasingly pricey affair. With inflation, basic necessities are demanding that we spend a lot more. In the face of growing rents and interest rates, it doesn’t matter if you rent or own your home, this year you will pay a higher sum than the previous year for it. In the midst of all this madness, something has got to give.
One of the first expenses to be discarded in most households would have to be the yearly holiday or vacation. In light of the increasingly difficult situation, many heads of household see such a trip as just one big, unnecessary expense. Their rationale is that by cutting the vacation from the annual budget, the rest of the year will be made that much more bearable. HOW WRONG! Without the tranquility and quality relaxation time furnished by a pleasant vacation experience, you and your family will end up struggling through the rest of the year. You’ll barely survive to year’s end, and that’s not what life should be like. We are on this planet to live life, not just to survive it!
If you have worked hard all year long then you deserve to have something you’ll be able to look forward to. At the same time, you need to escape somewhere that helps you recharge your batteries for the coming year of hard work. In this regard, a good vacation is no luxury but rather a necessity that helps you keep going. In the middle of hard times as these, the need for a little peace and tranquility to dispel bad vibes is that much more significant.
Despite all of this being true, there is absolutely no reason why you should end up spending a fortune on your vacation. In this article we try to point out some of the more economical vacation opportunities along the Gold Coast, opportunities liable to trim several hundreds of dollars from your holiday budget. All of that without forsaking any of the relaxation or fun such a vacation necessarily entails.
Getting there: to find cheap airfares to your destination there are a few different strategies. Here’s a look at some of them:
Reward Programs – If you are not a member of flight reward programs, you should be. Make sure you are a member of frequent flier reward programs and credit card reward programs. Now is the time to transfer your credit card points to your frequent flier program, cash them in and get your free flight. This alone will save you hundreds of dollars, just when you need it.
Discount Carriers – Don’t fly full service airlines. Stick to the discount carriers, and sign up to all their email newsletters. You’ll be amazed at the deals they have.
Use a flights comparison service – These comparison services will find the cheapest flights currently available, for the dates you want to fly. It will take the hassle out of the search for you and get you the best prices.
Staying there: Similar alternatives exist with accommodation. Remember too, the hotels know people cannot afford expensive holidays at the moment. They are discounting like crazy!
Reward Programs – Though not as well-known, several booking services and hotel chains offer reward programs. If you happen to be a member to any such program, cash in on your points now; otherwise, sign up now to gather points for next time round.
Hotel comparison services – These search engines will find you the best deal for your class of accommodation.
Consider other options – Hotels don’t have to be part of a vacation, as other alternatives exist. Hostels for backpackers are one option to consider for those searching for a “shared” experience. For those demanding more privacy, there are always B&Bs, holiday apartments and RV parks, all rich in cheap possibilities.
Enjoying the destination: the Gold Coast’s biggest pride has to be its many excellent surf beaches. Hence, entertainment during your vacation can be had absolutely without charge if you packed a swimsuit and towel. There is no end to the body surfing, swimming and tanning to be done.
For travelers looking for a bit of adventure, you can use the long-term surf rental services offered along the coast. The difference with the normal surf rental houses is that, given a long-term rental contract, you have access to much more reasonable and affordable rates, opening up the activity to a broader crowd.
Away from the beach, there are a myriad of other cheap entertainment opportunities which, with a little bit of forethought and planning, you can take maximum advantage of. From local markets and sporting events, to the semi regular and free, music and art festivals which continually draw crowds to Australia’s east coast. If you enjoy the nightlife while on holiday, try the Surf Life Saving Clubs rather than the clubs and bars. You’ll find the drinks are much cheaper, you’ll still have a great night, and you’ll help fund the great institution that is Surf Life Saving Australia.
All it takes is a little thought and clever planning and you can still enjoy your annual Gold Coast Holiday, even on a shoe string.
Damian Papworth understands that for cheap all inclusive holidays, the Gold Coast is a sensational destination. Start by finding some cheap Gold Coast accommodation, and ask what your providers will include in the deal.
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