Family Beach Vacations Still Affordable, According to Beachguide.com

Destin, FL (PRWEB) May 22, 2009 -- Shopping around for the best deal is paying off more than ever for families looking to make the most of their vacation dollars this summer. Many resorts are offering 10% to 25% or more off regular rates, according to the online travel guide, Beachguide.com. Others offer fun packages, free nights, complimentary admissions to area attractions, free dinners -- anything to entice beachgoers into making plans for a special trip to the beautiful Gulf Coast.

Many properties are reporting that not only are their discounts greater than in years past, but guest expectations are also soaring and they have had to spend additional time and money on staffing, training and concierge services to capture the attention of savvy internet travel shoppers. With the cost of gasoline at almost half the 2008 price, families will find that not only are the accommodations discounted, but the entire experience will be a fraction of the historical cost. Florida vacation rentals (http://www.beachguide.com/) along the Gulf Coast have never been more affordable.

Occupancy rates are climbing for domestic beach destinations that are willing to fluctuate with the economy, especially in areas such as Gulf Shores (http://www.beachguide.com/GulfShores), Destin (http://www.beachguide.com/destin) and Panama City Beach (http://www.beachguide.com/PanamaCityBeach). Even with household budgets stretched thin, Americans are steadfast in their habit of taking at least one family vacation a year regardless of the checkbook balance. Families that would have booked overseas vacations are turning to backyard travel destinations that are within a six-to-eight hour drive time or that offer flights to not only accommodate a tight budget, but also a condensed time frame. The average length of stay has shrunk from a week to a little over four nights for most Gulf Coast providers, according to Amber Leto, marketing director for several Gulf Coast properties, including Seascape Resort in Destin, Florida. Weekends fill up fast, so eager travelers with distinctive tastes should book in advance to balance their need for a great deal with their expectations of a perfect rental.

One way avid travelers stay informed on current deals is by subscribing to online newsletters, such as Beachguide.com's Gulf Coast Travel Deals (http://community.icontact.com/p/beachguide/newsletters/gctravel062408/posts/vacation-deals-condos-and-luxury-homes-in-4-destinations-including-disney-area2). Subscribers often receive unpublished, exclusive deals that offer the best rates and most current promotions. Other Florida beach vacation directories, both in print and on the web, simplify planning beach vacations by offering an array of destination choices, aggressive rates and promotions on a substantial list of vacation rentals, along with great tips on area eateries, favorite activities and upcoming events.

Most vacation planning websites feature a "Current Deals" page with choices that change frequently, so it pays to check favorite sites often. Online rates, photography, video commercials and peer reviews are also available online to help travelers with specific needs and expectations so they can reserve the most appropriate accommodations while staying within their budget.

Contact:

Renee Taliaferro

205-870-8700, ext. 1

renee(at)beachguide.com

www.beachguide.com

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