Vacations of value
Check out these cheap getaways that are light on your wallet, but not on fun
Issue date: 4/23/09 Section: Features
Last update: 4/22/09 at 8:16 PM EST
- Dacey McGinty,
The Duquesne Duke
Willamette Valley, Oregon
Willamette Valley, Ore., is a perfect vacation spot for those looking for a cheaper - but still sophisticated - alternative to a Napa Valley wine tour, or for fitness gurus looking for a scenic location to kayak, camp and hike.
The agrarian valley across the country is dotted with tulip gardens, historic covered bridges and more than 200 wineries. In fact, according to traveloregon.com, Willamette Valley is known as Oregon's Wine Country and is one of the top pinot noir-producing regions in the world.
Check out the local sights by biking through Silver Falls State Park (home to 10 picturesque waterfalls), canoeing on the waters of Waldo Lake or hiking to the top of Mary's Peak (to catch a glimpse of the Cascade Range and Pacific Ocean).
Not only is this vino-filled valley less expensive than its Californian equivalent, but the wineries are also much more accessible and closer to one another. And who could argue with the stunning surroundings?
Upcoming events: While the annual tulip festivals only run through April, be sure to check out the Indie Wine Festival (early May), the Eugene Marathon, a premier-distance running event (May 3), or Buckaroo, the region's summer rodeo (July 2-5).
- Kelly Horein,
Features Editor
Alaskan Cruises
Sometimes, it's hard to choose between an adventurous vacation and a relaxing one, which is where an Alaskan cruise comes into play. After lounging on the boat deck, the natural and historic attractions of Alaska offer the best switch of scenes.
Being twice the size of Texas and the largest state in the United States, there are plenty of places to see and things to do. Most cruises provide routes going to and from Alaska, sometimes going away from Vancouver, British Columbia, or from Anchorage, Ala. If going away from Vancouver, you're in luck. In this direction, sites include the Glacier National Park and Prince William Sounds. And once off the ship, there are plently of cities to keep your attention.
The Duquesne Duke
Willamette Valley, Oregon
Willamette Valley, Ore., is a perfect vacation spot for those looking for a cheaper - but still sophisticated - alternative to a Napa Valley wine tour, or for fitness gurus looking for a scenic location to kayak, camp and hike.
The agrarian valley across the country is dotted with tulip gardens, historic covered bridges and more than 200 wineries. In fact, according to traveloregon.com, Willamette Valley is known as Oregon's Wine Country and is one of the top pinot noir-producing regions in the world.
Check out the local sights by biking through Silver Falls State Park (home to 10 picturesque waterfalls), canoeing on the waters of Waldo Lake or hiking to the top of Mary's Peak (to catch a glimpse of the Cascade Range and Pacific Ocean).
Not only is this vino-filled valley less expensive than its Californian equivalent, but the wineries are also much more accessible and closer to one another. And who could argue with the stunning surroundings?
Upcoming events: While the annual tulip festivals only run through April, be sure to check out the Indie Wine Festival (early May), the Eugene Marathon, a premier-distance running event (May 3), or Buckaroo, the region's summer rodeo (July 2-5).
- Kelly Horein,
Features Editor
Alaskan Cruises
Sometimes, it's hard to choose between an adventurous vacation and a relaxing one, which is where an Alaskan cruise comes into play. After lounging on the boat deck, the natural and historic attractions of Alaska offer the best switch of scenes.
Being twice the size of Texas and the largest state in the United States, there are plenty of places to see and things to do. Most cruises provide routes going to and from Alaska, sometimes going away from Vancouver, British Columbia, or from Anchorage, Ala. If going away from Vancouver, you're in luck. In this direction, sites include the Glacier National Park and Prince William Sounds. And once off the ship, there are plently of cities to keep your attention.
Be the first to comment on this story
By posting an article comment, you agree to the Terms of Use policy.