Orbitz Index Reveals Top 10 Summer Travel Destinations for 2010
With the start of summer vacation season just weeks away, consumers can look to Orbitz for this year's top summer travel trends. This edition of the Orbitz Insider Index examines the most popular travel retreats for Memorial Day weekend through the heart of the summer season, and offers ideas for budget-minded travelers looking to find the best deals.
"Summer travelers are taking advantage of the off-season deals in destinations like Cancun, Riviera Maya and Punta Cana, all of which make our Top 10 list this year," said Jeanenne Tornatore, Orbitz Travel Insider. "While average summer airfares appear to be trending higher year over year, travelers will find significant hotel savings, with the majority of the season's top destinations averaging less than $150 a night."
Top 2010 Memorial Day Weekend and Summer Travel Destinations
The Orbitz Insider Index reviewed future hotel and package bookings on Orbitz.com to gather this year's list of top summer destinations, including Memorial Day weekend, the official opening weekend of the season. Find big hitters like Vegas and New York, as well as some key off-season locales, including Riviera Maya, Cancun and Punta Cana.
Travelers looking for deals this summer will find no shortage of destinations offering incentives, like discounts and free nights, to make a trip worthwhile. From booming beach towns to outdoor mountain meccas, Orbitz gives travelers the lowdown on why some of these sizzling locales make for great summer vacations.
Riviera Maya, Mexico
Coming in at #3 on the Top 10 Summer Destinations list, this Mexico hotspot is a prime winter getaway, but summer here is considered "off-season." That makes for a great respite from crowds during the warmer months. Families also will find spectacular deals at all-inclusive resorts such as Iberostar Tucan & Quetzal where kids 12 and under stay (and eat!) for free all summer long.
Aspen, Colorado
In the winter, this historic mountain town boasts world-class skiing and celebrity sightings. In the summer, the temperature warms up and the prices cool off, making this an affordable option for travelers seeking outdoor adventure. While winter may be the 'in' season in Colorado's many mountain towns, summer brings no shortage of things to do – from zip lining and whitewater rafting for thrill seekers to outdoor concerts and food & wine festivals for those seeking relaxation. And the best part is, you'll find savings on everything from hotel rooms to dining during the summer months.
Caribbean Cruise
Travelers who prefer to plan last-minute will find that one of the best summer steals for an eleventh-hour booking will be a Caribbean cruise. While cruises to the Mediterranean and Alaska are typically in high demand during the summer months, ships sailing to the Caribbean can have plenty of cabins available and offer unbelievable prices, upgrades and on-board credits.
*Based on Hotel and Air + Hotel bookings made on Orbitz by 4/19/10, for travel between 5/28/10 and 5/21/10
**Based on Hotel and Air + Hotel bookings made on Orbitz by 4/14/10, for travel between 6/1/10 and 8/31/10