
April showers bring May flowers. Or…April’s tax refund brings family fun! A (somewhat) unexpected check in the mail presents a great opportunity to quickly plan a vacation and surprise your family. Or if last-minute travel is not your thing, you can apply the extra cash to a bigger trip later in the year. Either way, it’s nice to know that your vacation money is coming from a tax check and not taking a bite out of your usual monthly budget.
If you do use your precious tax refund to pay for travel, you’ll want to be sure that you’re stretching the dollars as far as possible. Traveling in the off season can be your best chance to save a buck or two. May is considered off season in many locales — and it’s perfect timing if you want to immediately put your tax money to use. But if you decide to plan far ahead, book your flight and hotel reservations even earlier than you think is necessary–months ahead if possible. This could save you money and also will ensure availability.
Depending on which destination you choose, you’ll find ways to be cost efficient and get the most out of your tax refund. Here are some suggestions for great family destinations, along with money-saving tips.
SAN FRANCISCO
San Francisco is a popular place to travel in the off season because the temperature stays mostly the same year round. There is no need to go during the more popular periods of the year, because the city is equally beautiful all the time! “High” season, the busiest time, occurs from May to October. You will encounter far lighter crowds from November to January. Unlike other locations that have warmer weather, San Francisco is not a huge holiday destination. So holiday hotel rates are not inflated. The San Francisco Bay area is a bustling, beautiful destination, with sweeping vistas and plenty of coastal activities. New in 2014, the Bayview Rise is an illuminated mural located at Pier 92. Painted on a grain elevator and silos, the mural uses color and light to accomplish an effect known as “illumination animation,” which makes the image appear as though it is moving. The most iconic structure of the Bay area, the Golden Gate Bridge is quite majestic to behold. If you get the chance, which you likely will, witness the eerie beauty of the bridge shrouded in fog.
DISNEY WORLD
CARIBBEAN CRUISE
PARK CITY, UTAH
Located near Salt Lake City, Park City, Utah, is a beautiful destination coveted by skiers in the winter months and known for hosting the Sundance Film Festival in January. It doesn’t matter what time of year you visit Park City, however, because it is one of the most gorgeous destinations in the country — year round! In warmer weather, visitors enjoy hiking, biking and other outdoor pursuits. And no matter when you visit, you can experience the array of dining and nightlife options and the thriving art community. The famous Kimball Arts Festival, held each August, features more than 200 artists and 30 live bands, and even includes the Kimball Kids’ Corner. That’s a lot of entertainment for one family! Park City has lodging options for every budget, and there are many special deals during ski season and in summer.