Your Pocketbook

Travel professionals can assist in finding the best value for your buck.

by Sara Holtz

In the past few months, we've seen friends and family members lose jobs and cut back on pastimes in order to provide basic necessities.

"People are still traveling," says Sue Wells, vice president of travel at AAA Missouri. "They are just scaling back from what they would normally plan. Instead of going to Europe, they're going to the Grand Canyon or some place within the United States."

Many deals can be found just by going to the right people. Professionals at travel agencies can guide you in the right direction and provide you with prices that can't be beat.

> Price guarantees. Representatives from places like AAA can negotiate with providers to give you a guaranteed price. Wells recommends you do your homework online and when you're ready to book your vacation, ask a travel agent to take care of the details and protect your investment.

> Package deals. The travel expert suggests packaging your hotel stay and tour together to catch a break on airfare. Some cruises, depending on the line, include shore excursions instead of charging extra. Some lines are not charging singles for double occupancy cabins anymore, so they only get charged half the price. If you're a AAA member, you're eligible to get the added benefit of a cabin upgrade or special onboard credit. You may even be able to find cruises offering two days free when you buy four nights. Wells' says that Disney recently extended their special of "buy four nights, get three free" to include the summer months.

> Plan in advance. If you can, book three to nine months in advance.

> Lower your standards — just a little. If you're accustomed to traveling high-class, it may be in your favor to take a step-down in your choice of accommodations or transportation.

If you insist on doing your own research without a travel consultant, who normally offers service free of charge to the customer, keep your eyes peeled for special offers and packages from hotels like the Hyatt. Right now you can enjoy 50 percent off your second nights stay in a standard room when you reserve one night at the Hyatt Regency downtown. The only catch is you have to make a pre-paid booking Thursday through Saturday until March 28 and the rate is based upon double occupancy.

Like many other hotels, the Hyatt's complimentary reward program helps you build up points toward free nights with no blackout dates and enjoy upgrades and exclusive in-hotel services.

"The main thing we try to do is give guests the best value for their dollar," says Erika Barkhaus, revenue manager at the Hyatt Regency St. Louis Riverfront.