Summer Vacation?! It MIGHT be possible....

Alright, so a vacation in Greece like the photographer of this photo Jon Rawlison took MIGHT be out of the question BUT that doesn't mean you can't still get away! Below are some options that range from a few hundred in the bank to maybe $40. The key is thinking outside the box!


Option 1: You got a few hundred and need a BREAK.

Home swap anyone? If you have a place in a desirable place that tourists might be interested in swinging through for a visit....consider a swap. Ever seen the film The Holiday with Jack Black, Jude Law, Kate Winslet and Cameron Diaz? Chances are you won't meet the love of your life or even someone that looks like Jude Law or Cameron Diaz while swapping BUT it can be a great affordable way or avoiding hotels, getting to really enjoy a town and it's people and relaxing! Like any thing in life...there can be risks BUT be smart and this could be an amazing opportunity. http://www.homelink-usa.com/

Check out http://www.lastminute.com/ for great ideas on quick getaways that are package deals. Pick hotel+flight+car , flight+car (if you have a place to stay already!), flight +hotel (if you are going to an urban area this can be great!) or stick closer to home and get the best deals with car+hotel! Based on double occupancy you can get deals for under $100 a night. Heck, bring a 3rd or 4th friend and share a room with two double beds and you are looking at under $50 a night per person! AND some hotels involved ALLOW pets!

If you live in an urban area...consider taking the rail system. You know, the TRAIN! There are tons of places just a train ride away that can be affordable and FUN! Keep in mind that most rail systems do NOT allow companion animals unless they are working animals. Boston's MBTA does allow well behaved dogs and cats in carriers on their commuter rail, subways, and buses. NYC does not. Don't know about other major cities. Anyone give us a heads up here?

Option 2: You have enough money to get somewhere but not to stay somewhere AND you are adventurous.

Hostels. I lived in one when I was trying to find sublets in NYC. They can be a great experience. Keep in mind that you should NOT leave cash or anything of value at the hostel while you are gone for the day. An ex did and this cost them dearly. Check out http://www.hostels.com/ and http://www.hostelworld.com/

Couch Surfing. If you go through a reputable site and choose individuals that have been well reviewed this isn't any different than staying with your buddies friend Chuck who you haven't met. Some have actual private rooms, some only have couches. There are couples that host, singles, dog friendly homes, allergy free homes.... anything you want. This can be a GREAT option if you are able to go outside your comfort zone a bit! Plus, many times you get a built in tour guide who already knows all the best food, drink and play spots! http://www.couchsurfing.com/

Option 3: Day trips

If you have a car, or even if you don't, there are tons of options within a few hours of where you live. Be a tourist without having to pay like one! Just google "day trip _________" with your city and get out there.

So, you don't have a car....

Again, I cannot stress enough the rail system! If you have one.... it's a great affordable day trip option. Another way to do a day trip is to rent a car from a car share. You can get a nice car (even HYBRIDS) including insurance and gas for as little as $7 an HOUR!!! Check out http://www.zipcar.com%20we/We are members of zipcar and LOVE LOVE LOVE them for their locations all around the country (and now in London, Vancouver, and Toronto!!)

So, get out there and explore! NOW