Even if your budget is stretched, 2011 can still be a year of travel. It's just a matter of choosing the right place.
Far from resenting your presence, local business owners are glad to have you there filling hotels and restaurants. Leffel shares his tips for this year's bargain vacation spots with Larry Bleiberg for USA TODAY.
Mexico
Although drug-related violence has been concentrated near the U.S. border, many travelers have avoided the entire country. That means incredible bargains in Cancun, Cabo San Lucas and other resort areas.
Nepal
You don't have to be a mountain climber to experience the home of Mount Everest. Visitors can take fascinating cultural tours out of Kathmandu.
The Asian country has been a bargain destination for a decade, and there's no reason that will change in 2011, Leffel says. Resort islands like Bali are easy to reach, and although the country is popular with Australians.
Honduras
With first-class diving and Mayan ruins, Honduras has long been a bargain vacation spot. But tourists have stayed away since a political power struggle in 2009.
Vietnam
Whether you're a backpacker looking for $5-a-night flophouse, or a high-end visitor seeking a luxury hotel, you'll find bargains here. Vietnam is one of the few Asian countries where the dollar gained value in 2010.
This Mediterranean country has been attracting tourists for millennia, and despite its recent debt crisis, that's not going to change. But the protests and strikes, compounded with the recession that has cut the number of European visitors, means there's excess capacity now.
Ireland
It's likely the Emerald Isle's financial crisis will bring travel discounts this year, Leffel says. The country added scores of hotels during its recent economic boom, and now hoteliers are reporting trouble filling rooms.
Ethiopia
Not only does this African nation have incredible ruins and scenery, but its currency dropped more than almost any other — nearly 30% against the dollar in 2010. Ethiopia suffers from its location next to troubled Somalia.
Hungary
This Eastern European nation has all the charm of its western neighbors at lower costs. The country hasn't yet adopted the euro, and its currency fell more than 10% against the dollar in 2010.
The USA
Few people realize what a travel bargain they have at home. Look for deals in places that depend on conventions, such as Las Vegas and Orlando. If you stay away from holiday and peak travel periods, you can find great deals.
More at: http://www.usatoday.com/travel/destinations/10great/2011-01-06-travel-bargains-2011_N.htm
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