Everyone likes to save money when traveling, but there are some things you just need to spend a pretty penny on. Certainly when our family travels, we know not every vacation will put us in the lap of luxury. Still, we try to find at least one splurge on each trip to make it feel even more special. Whether it’s a delicious meal, an exciting excursion, or a place to stay, there are plenty of things to splurge on during your next vacation. Sometime we let the kids choose one thing each.
Boating in tropical places like Aruba tend to go with snorkeling adventures and colorful fish.Ava might choose an excursion, and Triton might go for a fancy meal. Sophia will want to go clothes shopping, and you can pretty much find Jon getting a massage. Whatever floats your boat doesn’t have to break the bank.
Things To Splurge on During Your Next Vacation
Local Cuisine
Grocery shopping and food trucks are acceptable during your journey, but when you travel pick one meal that showcases the local flavors. We’re not talking the tourist traps. Ask residents where they eat that really showcases what their city is all about. In Omaha, Nebraska, it’s absolutely V. Mertz, where the chef uses fresh, local ingredients to create a spectacular menus in this hidden Midwestern gem. In Midtown Manhattan, there are several places within walking distance of most hotels, including Joe’s Shanghai for dim sum. Ask a local in New Orleans for the best place to find Creole or Cajun cuisine, and it most likely will not be the famous ones.
Ordering a decadent and delicious dessert is a great way to splurge.Your meal may be moderately priced or on the higher end, depending on the city you’re visiting and what the locals suggest. Go for broke if you must, in order to experience the best and most delicious meal on your vacation.
Get Adventurous
There are always those once-in-a-lifetime bucket list experiences you simply cannot put a price tag on. Going rafting in New Mexico down the Rio Grande or sailing in Kauai are two amazing, authentic local experiences perfect for our family. We always try to do a boating trip on visits where there is water. It’s such an incredible way to experience sea life and the oceans when you travel. Double points if there is snorkeling or kayaking as part of the day!
Vacation adventures like white water rafting may be pricey, but they deliver memories to last a life time!If you’d rather experience the scenery by air, try a helicopter tour. There are many places that take you above the city to see a different view of your vacation destination. We loved our experience in Las Vegas, where we buzzed above the Grand Canyon, Colorado River, and the Las Vegas Strip! Even small towns may have helicopter tours available. Don’t hesitate to ask the locals or a concierge at your hotel.
Sightseeing in helicopters is like nothing else – the views are incredible.Where to Stay
When you decide to splurge on your hotel stay, your experience is bound to be unique and flawless. We’ve stayed at many fantastics hotels, and the very best give you a vacation-worthy experience without ever leaving the hotel. Resort hotels often offer photo-worthy architecture, activities for the whole family, and dining experiences. Check out hotels that include breakfast, have complimentary happy hour, and concierge services. You may even consider a resort that includes food or spa accommodations on site, an all-inclusive hotel where meals and drinks are included.
Expansive buffets like this one at the Tamarijn Resort in Aruba make all-inclusive resorts a wonderful splurge.Splurge!
Even if you have a strict budget for your vacation, there are places in your financial plan where you can stretch a bit. Try that one local meal that tickles your taste buds, or add a little bit of adventure to your trip with an outdoorsy escapade. Don’t forget that a great hotel can make a vacation perfect. These things to splurge on during your next vacation have made our trips memorable and exciting.
What are your favorite indulgences on vacation?
