Great, Affordable Vacations for Couples

This year many couples are looking for an inexpensive destination to relax and spend some time together. With the downturn in the economy, couples are finding it difficult to allocate funds from their budget for vacations this year. Whether this is for an anniversary, birthday or just to get away from the kids, couples want to spend a few days in a romantic setting to relax, reconnect and rejuvenate. Below are some budget-friendly destinations that are great for couples who are looking for a place to visit that is fun, relaxing and will not cause stress by stretching their budgets too thin.

Charleston, South Carolina is a wonderful place to spend a romantic weekend or a full week. There are so many things to do and see that you can literally choose the activities that best suit your tastes and preferences. You can take a stroll down the waterfront or visit many historical landmarks and homes. Middleton Place is a wonderful 18th-century plantation with many activities for couples including the Summer Wine Strolls and Spoleto Finale. There are many accommodations in Charleston, and in the surrounding areas, so finding an affordable place to stay during your visit is not difficult. Many hotels offer specials so make sure that you check websites and also call to inquire about any current specials. Also, ask if the hotel offers packages for tours, meals and other activities that might save money. For an extensive list of accommodations and activities for couples, see the romance packages on the website for the Charleston Area Convention and Visitor Bureau.

Sonoma Valley, California is a lovely destination for wine lovers as well as those who just enjoy beautiful scenery and quiet, peaceful days. Couples can ride bikes along stunning scenic paths, take horseback rides, attend festivals or just stroll among the vineyards and farms. From amazing spas, golf, culinary attractions and museums to visit during the day, couples will have a wonderful time sightseeing and then romancing each other in the evenings at spectacular nightclubs. For information on packages and accommodations, visit the Sonoma Country website sponsored by the Sonoma County Tourism Board.

For a great, budget-friendly weekend away, do not forget to check the specials at Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, Tennessee. After spending a day exploring the beautiful Smokey Mountains, you can curl up in front of a fire on a nice cool night sipping your favorite beverage and listening to music with your partner. The Smoke Mountains are the perfect backdrop to a relaxing and romantic vacation for couples. There are beautiful trails to explore, local arts and crafts to shop and spectacular shows to enjoy. You can stay in a secluded cabin for two with a hot tub and fireplace or opt for a hotel but whichever you choose you can be sure to find a great deal that will fit almost any budget. Most of the accommodations offer romance packages so make sure to check the websites or call and ask for details.

My husband took me to Savannah, Georgia last year and I loved walking along the sidewalks with moss hanging from the trees. And we definitely got close later that night when he took me on the ghost tour (I stayed up under him most of the time). There are many things to do in Savannah to fill your days and evenings. You can plan your trip on the Savannah Area Convention & Visitors Bureau’s website, which has a list of the area attractions, hotels and restaurants. Many of the hotels have romance packages, which may include spa treatments for couples. Make sure to check out the special offers for great deals and discounts to make your romantic retreat a real treat for you budget too.

Do not forget to check websites for deals on cruises. With tough economic times, cruise lines offer great discounts on cruises that are not quite full and you can find some really great last minute deals. I like to keep track of the current cruise specials on Expedia, Travelocity and Orbitz to name a few. You can get really low fares on a romantic cruise for two that will give you plenty of time to reconnect, relax and rejuvenate!