Spring has sprung and now you can too. As we say goodbye to the season of hibernating in our sweatpants, we can all finally get back to living our best life. Start the new season right with a vacation otherwise known as the ultimate comeback. The best part? It doesn’t cost a fortune to do so.
Our friends over at Booking.com have put together a selection of the best budget-friendly places to visit, sure to create some #instajelousy. Now get ready to gear up for the guilt-free vacation you know you deserve.
Stunning Sunset over Downtown Montreal on a February cold day. The Saint Laurence river is visible in the background under an orange sky.
Nothing says #ballinonabudget like a stay-close-to-home-cation. Only hours away, you’ll find a piece of France tucked away in the charming city of Montreal. As spring approaches, the French city transforms from a lifeless grey to a hopeful green overnight, offering visitors a vibrant atmosphere and endless things to do. From the abundance of festivals to pop up sugar shacks, picnics in the park, Bixi rides and patios serving up drinks and poutines, you’ll soon realize why Montreal has a certain je ne sais quoi to it.
If you’re looking for an inexpensive crash pad while you’re in town the Old Port aparthotel Lofts du Vieux-Port is the one for you. Not only will the trendy loft’s hardwood flooring and brick accent walls have you basking in old Montreal aesthetic, but the fully loaded kitchen will give you the inspiration to try your hand at some French cuisine. And don’t worry, it’s okay if your idea of the local fare is French fries, you’ll enjoy them, even more, knowing you paid a fraction of any fancy restaurant price— Bon Appétit!
A viewpoint over O Connell Bridge and Dublin City
The emerald isle should be at top of any adventure traveler’s bucket list. Let the locals treat you to their legendary Irish hospitality as you stroll through the colourful streets, and discover the abundant art, culture, and history of this capital city. Of course, no trip to Dublin would be complete without visiting one of its watering holes in the iconic Temple Bar region. With over 1,000 pubs, the city does not disappoint with an extensive selection of Irish Coffee, malt whisky and of course Guinness.
While this journey is across the great BIG pond, there are plenty of affordable places to stay. Consider the Broc House Suites, an apartment-style property perfect for a group of friends that don’t mind bunking up and want access to a kitchen to save money on eating out. What might be the most attractive feature of this space is the rooftop terrace overlooking the entire city offering the ideal backdrop for your instaworthy photo of the view, something nearly half of us (47%) are inclined to share on social.
Neon signs on Lower Broadway (Nashville) at Night
Looking for an intense burst of music and culture? Than make Nashville your spring vacation spot. With an average hotel price of only $159 a night this city is an excellent choice for those looking to let loose and indulge in a little bit of good ol’ southern fun on a budget. Music fans will want to browse the museums dedicated to Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson, then catch some live music in bars across the city’s vibrant neighborhoods. Nature lovers will want to explore the city’s many parks, easily accessible by foot or bike. Nashville’s famous “Honky Tonk Row” features everything from affordable dive bars, to the cities hottest clubs so party animals are free to roam wild.
Known for its trendy décor and fun vibes, the reasonably priced and eclectic SoBro Guest House located in Downtown Nashville will give you a comfortable stay and spacious apartment-style living without spending a fortune. Cut costs of eating out by using the hotel’s kitchen grocery stocking service and be your own chef while you stay.
Nicked named the Windy City, Chicago should be near the top of your travel bucket list. Standing proud along the shores of Lake Michigan, Chicago is down-to-earth, friendly, and abounding in culture. Pictures at the Cloud Gate sculpture affectionately known as The Bean and shop hopping on the world-famous Michigan Avenue are only some of the activities travelers can enjoy for a low to no cost.
The magical city of Chicago has something for every budget. For the pennywise traveler spots like the city’s beautiful Kinzie Hotel gives tourists a luxury experience for an affordable price with breakfast included. Here you can save on dinner with the hotels nightly receptions, which offer each guest one complimentary drink and an assortment of hors-d’oeuvres for snacking.
Looking for a relaxing getaway, check out the quaint yet full of life Cape May. This coastal town gives its guests a slow paced easy living destination to explore. With beautiful beaches, top notch dining, and great places to shop and play this New Jersey gem is one of a kind. Only a one-hour drive from Atlantic City, Cape May is everything you need to wash away the stress of winter and get you ready and rejuvenated for the season ahead.
For an inexpensive and historical experience check into Congress Hall. Featured in the “Book the U.S” list which features the most unique places to stay in all 50 states for every budget, this property is much more than your average hotel. Known as America’s first seaside resort, the historical 19th-century hotel offers 106 guestrooms, each one individually named for the U.S. presidents or dignitaries who spent their summers there— COOL!
If you know of any other affordable options this Spring, let us know in the comments.
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With everyone heading to Thanksgiving family gatherings for the long weekend, this is the perfect time to swim against the current and take a last-minute trip to one of the great, under-the-radar cities just a drive away from Toronto. There are plenty of free and low-cost events to take advantage of, plus it’s about time you checked out these nearby underrated gems.
Booking.com, the global leader in connecting travellers with the widest choice of incredible places to stay, has put together a list of the top cities you can hit in a few hours or less for an affordable and unconventional long weekend adventure.
Detroit
Who doesn’t love a comeback story? Detroit has overcome rough times and is a thriving city that comes alive during the Fall. The Detroit Princess Riverboat hosts the Motown Dinner Cruise at $40-75 a head, complete with cocktails, dinner, live entertainment and dancing, all while taking in the sunset over the Detroit and Windsor skyline. This is a fun night out not to miss when visiting the birthplace of Motown music. A more budget-friendly activity in Detroit is exploring the diverse architecture and eccentric street art on a self-guided walking tour.
Where to Stay:
Historic Corktown has become a hipster neighborhood full of street art, coffee shops and craft beer, making it the ideal place to base yourself. Boutique hotel Trumbull & Porter, decked out with furniture from the iconic Herman Miller and vintage-style bicycles, sits right in the heart of Corktown, near restaurants and entertainment, as well as Comerica Park, Greektown and more. Be sure to check out Sugar House for its extensive cocktail menu and for the morning after, Astro Coffee will have you covered with a local favorite breakfast sandwich and strong, delicious coffee.
Ottawa
Canada’s capitol has been pulling out all the stops for #Canada150 and there’s still time to take in the celebrations. As part of the ‘Ottawa Welcomes the World’ series, “Beijing Week” runs October 5th to 9th. Access to most events are free, with performances, folk music, and traditional Chinese operas, Chinese tea art, local delicacies, traditional craftsmanship including cloisonné, paper-cutting, and Beijing embroidery.
If you want to spend some time in the great outdoors then drive just 30 minutes outside of Ottawa to the quaint town of Wakefield in the Gatineau Hills of Quebec. Wander through the town to the landmark red bridge or grab a floatie and let the river take you on a natural (and free) lazy river ride!
Where to stay
The Byward Market is one of the most picturesque areas to wander around in Ottawa. Save some money on dining out and enjoy the fresh produce by picking up local goods at the market and enjoying it as a picnic on nearby Parliament Hill. Top Booking.com recommended hotels in the area include the Andaz Ottawa Byward Market and The Westin Ottawa.
Hamilton
The Hammer is one of Canada’s largest cities and one not to be overlooked. Start off your long weekend with Free Fridays at the Art Gallery of Hamilton which offers free admission on the first Friday of each month from 4-8 pm with guided tours at 6 pm. Then explore the stunning waterfalls that surround the city, which are of course free and likely less crowded than nearby Niagara Falls.
Thanksgiving weekend will see downtown Hamilton’s first Annual Oktoberfest with the Black Forest Inn will playing host to celebrate their 50th anniversary. Free of charge to attend, locals and visitors alike are invited to eat, drink and be merry! The celebrations will take place on Ferguson Street next to the Inn between King St. East and Theatre Aquarius on King William. Prost!
Where to stay:
Hamilton has a vibrant nightlife and if you want to stay in the centre of the action then the Staybridges Suites Hamilton is your best bet as it boasts the top-rated location in the city. 64% of Canadians say that the first 24 hours of a trip are all about relaxing and resetting, making any one of Hamilton’s many cozy B&B’s perfect for some ultra chill Canadian hospitality.
Buffalo
Buffalo has long been a destination for Canadian shoppers looking for a bargain and now with the U.S. dollar value decreasing, it’s an even better time to get the most value for your money and pick up something for your fall wardrobe. A must-visit for shopping in the city is Elmwood Village, the local favorite neighborhood for quirky cafés, independent retailers and trendy bars and restaurants. Allentown is the city’s artistic area worth visiting to check out the wall-size murals that cover the walls.
Film and entertainment fans will want to check out the Buffalo International Film Festival, one of the oldest and most popular film festivals in Western New York. The festival runs October 6th to 9th and offers an all-access pass (the aptly named Bison Pass) that will run you $36.97 USD and provides admission to any public screening, as well as numerous panels and parties.
Where to stay:
The Hotel Henry Urban Resort is a 15-minute walk away from Elmwood Village and housed in a stunning historic landmark, Buffalo was recently named America’s Favorite City for Architecture and it’s safe to say that this building helped contribute to the reputation!
Kingston
Way more than just a University town, Kingston is a charming city with lots to offer. There’s no denying the city’s historical significance as one of Ontario’s oldest cities, wandering around the limestone buildings and watching dramatic war reenactments at Fort Henry make for a fully immersive experience.
What you may not know is that Kingston is home to the most restaurants per capita of almost any other city in Canada. Thanks to the student population, there are plenty of quality cheap eats to choose from. Try The Toucan for it’s all day breakfast or Saigon Delights if you’re craving spring rolls.
On Kingston’s doorstep is the 1000 Islands region along the border of New York State and Ontario. Cruise around the islands where you can find classic lighthouses and even a fairy tale castle on a historical boat tour, or step up your excursion with a dinner or wine tasting cruise at sunset.
The best way to get the most out of your money is to pick up a KPass, the all-inclusive Kingston Attractions Pass. Choose from 24h, 48h or 72h tickets that get you access to museums, galleries, tours, 1000 islands cruise and more.
Where to stay:
Wake up with a view of the waterfront at the Delta Hotel by Marriott Kingston that’s in walking distance of Fort Henry and where the 1000 islands cruises take off from, not to mention it has an rooftop indoor pool for guests to enjoy.
Where will you road trip to this Thanksgiving weekend? Share your ideas in the comment section.
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This year the Great White North turns 150! That means its been 150 years of poutine eating, maple syrup obsessed, “eh” saying, polite Canadians – now that’s something to celebrate! And we think there’s no better way to honour Canada, and our confederate fathers, than by exploring all that this great nation has to offer. From chowing down on fresh lobster in the East Coast, to watching the Aurora Borealis illuminate the sky in the Yukon, to partying until the sun comes up in the country’s capital, this is the year to #ExploreCanada.
Booking.com, the global leader in connecting travellers with more than one million incredible places to stay, helped us find some of the best spots to visit for those considering a coast-to-coast journey to mark the milestone birthday.
Start at Mile 1 – St. John’s, NL
Buckle up and head out on the first mile of the Trans-Canada Highway, beginning in St. John’s, NL. You can smell the salt and hear the roar of the Atlantic Ocean from Signal Hill, Canada’s easternmost-point. At the first leg of your trip check out the The Luxus Boutique Hotel – your first cocktail is on the house and its prime downtown location will place you near all the fun festivities for Canada Day.
Bluenose Country – Lunenburg, NS
Next stop is at Lunenburg, home of the famous Bluenose schooner that adorns the back of our dime and is a prime fixture in Canadian culture. You’ll want to be sure to experience the city at one of their historical inns or bed and breakfasts, nestled among their narrow streets. Properties such as the Mariner King Inn, built in 1830, have endured for generations. The inn’s unique colourful wooden architecture and extensive history, provides an authentic Nova Scotian experience.
Get out your lobster bib – New Glasgow, PEI
Known for its red-sand beaches, fertile farmland and breathtaking beauty, nowhere in Canada is the sea more dominant than in Prince Edward Island, (no wonder Canada’s founding fathers agreed on the terms of Confederation there). But there is another big reason to visit Canada’s tiniest province – the renowned seafood of course! Known as Canada’s Food Island, its succulent seafood is world famous.
One of the best places in PEI to enjoy seafood is New Glasgow, near Cavendish Beach National Park. Your dinner starts with all-you-can-eat fresh, hot rolls, seafood chowder, tomato basil soup, steamed Island Blue mussels, coleslaw, green salad, and potato salad. The main course is up to four pounds of fresh-caught lobster boiled in saltwater and served with clarified butter. While your there, stay 10 minutes from the beach to ensure you’re served only the freshest seafood, at the cozy B&B The Lookout Inn!
Loyalist Province – Fredericton, NB
Following the American Revolution, thousands of Americans loyal to Great Britain – known as United Empire Loyalists – played a dominant role building towns and cities in eastern Canada, especially in New Brunswick. Thousands left the U.S. to move to Fredericton, the province’s stately inland capital on the St. John River. You’ll want to make sure to emerge yourself in east coast culture by checking out Historic Garrison District, an 18th-century British army base now home to the Changing of the Guard ceremony, artists’ studios and an outdoor theatre.
Luckily, Fredericton, also known as Freddy Beach, Celestial City, and the City of Stately Elms, boasts one of the best B&Bs in Canada. The Quartermain House on historic Waterloo Row is the perfect place to rest your head during this stop on your great Canadian road trip.
A taste of Europe – Old Quebec City, QB
Considered the “most European city in North America”, Old Québec, a UNESCO World Heritage treasure, is the only fortified city north of Mexico. Its cobblestone streets exude European charm, romantic ambiance, exquisite cuisine, and charming hotels.
The most dominant landmark overlooking the St. Lawrence River and Old Québec is the iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac which has undergone a multi-million-dollar renaissance project. The restoration blends the charm of the hotel’s rich history with modern innovations, creating a special guest experience. The perfect stay for this historian, both Notre Dame Cathedral and the Citadel of Quebec are less than a five-minute walk away.
Celebrate Canada’s Birthday in the Capital – Ottawa, ON
Hundreds of thousands of Canadians will be flocking to the nation’s capital this summer to celebrate Canada’s epic milestone birthday. While you’ll want to be sure to check out the downtown staples like Parliament Hill, Rideau Canal and the National War Memorial – don’t discount the lesser known attractions. ByWard Market’s Tin House, the Wilson Carbide Mill and the Diefenbunker (a 100,000 square foot underground bunker originally built in case of nuclear war) are definite must sees.
One of its most iconic places in the capital just so happens to be a place you can stay while you’re visiting – the historic Fairmont Chateau Laurier hotel. Named after Sir Wilfrid Laurier, Canada’s first francophone Prime Minister, the property has hosted royalty and leaders from around the world. It has often been referred to as “the third chamber of Parliament”. Designated a national historic site, its 429 guest rooms breathe Canadian history. Designed in the French Gothic Châteauesque style to complement the adjacent Parliament Buildings, the hotel features original Tiffany stained-glass windows and hand-moulded plaster decorations dating back to 1912
“Friendly Manitoba” – Selkirk, MB
For those seeking a true prairie experience, it’s worth venturing 22 kilometres northeast from Winnipeg to Selkirk on the Red River. One of the flattest parts of Canada, with fields of wheat and canola surrounding the city, Selkirk is also home to the Marine Museum of Manitoba and the site of a Canadian Coast Guard base.
Get some shut eye at the ivy-covered Evergreen Gate Bed & Breakfast, located within a half hour drive of Downtown Winnipeg and Lake Winnipeg beaches. You’ll be able to get a true feel for one of the flattest places in all of Canada by touring on the bicycles available right on the property.
Turquoise Treasure – Lake Louise, AB
A celebration of Canada’s 150th birthday isn’t complete until you have seen the turquoise waters of Lake Louise surrounded by the Victoria Glacier, soaring mountain backdrop, and stayed at Fairmount Chateau Lake Louise in the Rocky Mountains.
Lake Louise is nestled in Banff National Park, Canada’s oldest national park, established in 1885. Surrounded by jaw-dropping sights and adventures, it is nature’s beauty at its best. In summer, the lake is an intense shade of turquoise, the result of light refracting off the glacier silt deposited in the lake by glacier runoff.
Fairmount Chateau Lake Louise is the perfect place to take in the panoramic views of Lake Louise and the Victoria Glacier. The best part? Guided hiking, horseback riding, mountaineering, and canoeing in the pristine waters are readily available at the hotel.
Experience VIP Luxury – Vancouver, BC
When British Captain George Vancouver sailed into what is now the city named after him for the first time in 1792, he probably thought he was in Shangri-La, that fictional place that exudes natural perfection. With snow-capped mountains providing an incredible vista surrounding the city, Vancouver is one of the most naturally beautiful cities in the world.
You’ll want to be sure to stay close to the waterfront to stroll along famous Robson Street or visit the beach or the Vancouver Art Gallery. Check into the 5-star Shangri La Hotel in downtown Vancouver for a luxurious getaway that is the perfect home-away-from-home.
Turn on the Lights – Whitehorse, YK
If you’re looking for a supernatural experience, make your last stop in your great-Canadian adventure the Yukon in late August and September. You will be treated to a multi-colour experience provided by Inn on the Lake, 55 kilometres south of Whitehorse. Its “Feast Your Eyes Tour” lets you marvel at the visually breathtaking colours of the land and sky.
The Inn offers autumn, winter, and spring Northern Lights packages where the ever-changing colours of the Aurora Borealis entertain guests right from their suites. The night skies are lit up with neon pink and green swathes of colours. While it can never be guaranteed that you’ll get to a glimpse of the bucket-list worthy sight, the beauty and abundant wildlife throughout the territory makes the trek to what is truly the great white north, worth it!
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There’s a lot of appeal when it comes to exchanging your wedding vows in an exciting locale away from home – the journey, the adventure, the romantic mystique! It kicks the excitement and magic of a wedding up that extra notch.
To help you get hitched abroad, Booking.com, the global leader in connecting travellers with the widest choice of incredible places to stay, has found the most romantic spots to say “I do”. From major cities, to rustic towns, here are the top six destinations to become Mr. and Mrs.
Ravello, Italy
Ravello, Italy (Image: Booking.com)
Ravello, a resort town perched above the Tyrrhenian Sea, has enchanted travellers for centuries. With breath-taking views of the iconic Amalfi Coast and lush cliffside gardens, Ravello is a perfect location for a romantic destination wedding. The glossy town is renowned for its ethereal atmosphere, particularly at night when the vistas light up the mountainous landscape.
Book yourselves into La Dolce Vita Ravello for a true ‘room with a view’ experience. The property includes colourful, modern studios and apartments with private terraces or patios overlooking panoramic views of the Amalfi coast.
Las Vegas, USA
Las Vegas (Image: Booking.com)
The neon lights of mega-resorts, swanky casinos and desire-filling factories might look like a desert mirage as your plane descends into Sin City – but believe it or not, what many call The Entertainment Capital of the World is as real as the money you can win at the blackjack tables. Whether wanting a big, traditional ceremony or a small, intimate affair, Las Vegas offer brides and grooms many options all with the backdrop of one of the most stimulating cities in the world.
The Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas, a Forbes triple five-star luxury hotel in the center of the Vegas strip, boasts views of either the strip or the city from each room. Wedding parties can enjoy in the sleek hotel’s style and extravagance without the hectic vibe of a casino onsite. Treat your bridal or groomsman party to a pampering pre or post-wedding at the two-floor 1930s Shanghai-themed spa.
Sydney, Australia
Sydney, Australia (Image: Booking.com)
On a sunny day, the waters of Sydney Harbour glisten like shards of sapphire, reflecting a certain iconic Opera House that needs no introduction. But the city’s heart and soul lie in the warmth and charm of its communities. Whether your wedding dreams consist of a laid-back beach ceremony or a reception amongst the cosmopolitan backdrop of the city centre, Sydney can make all your wedding dreams come true.
Adina Apartment Hotel is surrounded by the popular neighbourhood of Bondi’s numerous restaurants, cafes and bars and is a five-minute walk from Bondi Beach. Comprised of studios, one, two, and three bedroom apartments, all of which have a balcony, the hotel is a prime place to park your wedding crew for the trip.
Paris, France
Paris, France (Booking.com)
Paris, a magnet for lovers and their beloved; a sleepless and urbane capital fuelled by champagne and dreams; and an unwavering lodestone for the world’s art and culture connoisseurs. Known worldwide as ‘The City of Love’, what better place to say “I do”?
Classic yet modern hotel Le Burgundy is just a hop and a skip from premier shopping district Rue Saint-Honoré and less than a ten-minute drive to The Champs-Elysées. Host your rehearsal dinner in au courant French cuisine style at the hotel’s Michelin Star restaurant, Le Baudelaire.
London, England
London, England (Image: Booking.com)
London’s unique allure is impossible to define. From the dizzying wealth of Belgravia to the urban markets of Camden Town, every neighbourhood has its own unique character. You may not be able to have the formal pomp and circumstance like Prince William and Duchess Kate’s wedding, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a wedding that’s fit for a royal in London!
Posh West end neighbourhood Mayfair is home to Marriott 47 Park Street, a hotel made up of opulent Edwardian suites decorated with fine art and crystal lighting. The property houses a Michelin two-starred restaurant and is less than a five-minute walk from Kensington Palace-adjacent Hyde Park – the perfect space for a wedding party photoshoot.
Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico City, Mexico (Image: Booking.com)
Urban metropolis alongside rich aztec history speak to Mexico City’s colourful appeal and eclectic landscape. The capital’s culinary scene is off the charts and the city’s ancient ruins, plazas, stunning murals, classic cantinas, art galleries, and more, leave visitors at no shortage of cultural offerings. Mexico City’s tourism is rapidly on the rise, so now would be a good time for soon-to-be-spouses to claim their wedding spot in the culturally stacked capital city.
If affordable luxury sounds appealing, Casa Corp Boutique Suite in Condesa has got your wedding party covered. Near shopping, entertainment, historic sites, and more, this property is rated as one of the best values you’ll find in Mexico City. Each piece of furniture in the elegantly decorated suites has been hand-picked by the architect and art gallery owner.
About Booking.com
Booking.com is an informative, user-friendly website that guarantees the best available prices for any type of property, from small, family-run bed and breakfasts to executive apartments and five-star luxury suites. Their goal is to provide business and leisure travellers with the most accessible and cost-effective way of discovering and booking the broadest selection of accommodations, in every corner of the world.
Did we miss any of the best wedding destinations? Share them with us in the comment section below.
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