ASTA travel agents list their favorites

As some parts of the country brace themselves for more bone-chilling weather, plenty of Americans are looking to get away. But with the sinking economy on everyone’s minds, where can you go for a break, without breaking the bank?

ASTA recently asked its travel agent members what they saw as the most budget-friendly destinations for travel in the United States in 2009. Not surprisingly, perennial favorites Las Vegas and Orlando/Disney World were ranked first and second, respectively, with Branson, Mo., New Orleans and Los Angeles rounding out the top five.

“Travel agents are experts at finding the best value for their clients,” said Chris Russo, ASTa president and chair. “When every penny counts, using the services of a professional ASTA travel agent can mean the difference between enjoying a vacation with friends and family or staying home.”

Travel agents cited Las Vegas’ multitude of choices in lodging and entertainment, competitive hotel prices and great bargains on airfare and dining. Not surprisingly, one of the reasons Orlando/Disney World sits among the top five budget-friendly destinations is the sheer number of package trips available and Disney’s “Kids Fly Free” packages. Branson, Mo., was rated highly for its senior-discount travel packages, as well as the fact that for many in the country it’s within driving distance.

New Orleans, too, made the top five list thanks to numerous travel packages at discounted prices that are available year-round and for special events such as Mardi Gras and other music and cultural festivals. Coming in at number five was Los Angeles, cited by ASTA travel agents as providing visitors with a host of options on everything from lodging to dining and entertainment.

Regardless of where travelers are looking to visit, using a professional ASTA travel agent can save them time and money. To learn more about these and other destinations, visit TravelSense.org. There, consumers not only can find travel tips and advice but an ASTA travel agent in their area who specializes in a particular destination or type of travel on the Find a Travel Agent Directory.

The mission of the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) is to facilitate the business of selling travel through effective representation, shared knowledge and the enhancement of professionalism. ASTA seeks a retail travel marketplace that is profitable and growing and a rewarding field in which to work, invest and do business.

Source: TravelDailyNews