Pauline Frommer, series editor of Pauline Frommer’s Travel Guides, has selected five top budget destinations, from romantic getaway spots to family faves to exotic destinations for adventurous travelers, in no particular order:
Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Minnesota — One million acres of wilderness traversed by 1,300 miles of canoeable waters makes this spectacularly beautiful area a top pick for nature lovers and fishermen. Experienced outdoors people simply grab a canoe, a fishing license ($17-$24), a camping permit (done by lottery, average $44 per group), supplies, a tent and go. For novices, local outfitters like the Rockwood Lodge (800-942-2922 or 218-388-2242; ) in Grand Marais will supply all equipment and food for two to four adults for five days for $342.
The Wisconsin Dells — More than 20 waterpark resorts soak visitors in this scenic city on the Wisconsin River. Day passes to the larger waterparks are usually around $30 to $35; check the Visitor & Convention Bureau’s website at for complete listings and links to area parks. The big resorts can be steep, but less-expensive motels abound starting at just $40 per night.
The Oregon Coast, including Willamette Valley — The choice for romantics: Inland lies Willamette Valley, a winery-laden mecca for oenephiles and foodies (and a much cheaper vino experience than Napa). Highlights include the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area and Yachats, an artistic community with excellent eats and uncrowded beaches. An Oregon Pacific Coast Passport (800-551-6949; PARKS/recreational_pass.shtml) grants access to all of the state and federal parks and recreation areas for only $10 for a five-day pass or $35 for an annual pass.
The Dominican Republic — The king of the affordably priced, all-inclusive package destinations, especially during the summertime when all Caribbean isles slash prices to lure visitors. SuperClubs’ Breezes Puerto Plata Resort, Spa & Casino (superclubs.com) offers package deals; a recent price check yielded rates of $70 per night per person from June to August.
Peru — Peru is a country with a surplus of great adventures, many of them an excellent value for the money. From Cusco, a scenic train journey can take you to Puno and Lake Titicaca, where you can visit the floating islands of Uros on a day trip ($12) or enjoy a true cultural immersion by staying overnight with a family ($15). For those interested in the famed Machu Picchu, local companies such as Peru Treks (perutreks ) will take you on an all-inclusive four-day trek for as little as $300; American-based companies such as Adventure Center (adventurecenter.com) offer seven- day Cuzco and Machu Picchu tours for $595.
