Where To Find The Best Travel Deals For 2014

If you’re looking for a good travel deal in 2014, the experts at Travelzoo have a few ideas. “Thanks to a series of one-time events such as the 2014 World Cup and long-term growth trends in the global travel industry, travelers can expect some incredible deals in 2014,” said Shirley Tafoya, president for Travelzoo North America. “Of the hundreds of destinations that our Deal Experts reviewed, we predict that Ecuador, Europe’s rivers, India, the Jersey Shore and Palm Springs will offer the greatest wow-factor.”

American tourists are seen at a tree house, which is used to observe Tungurahua volcano activity from 1.2 km (0.75 miles) of the volcano's crater in Banos city. Reuters

If you’re craving the tropics without the price tag of the Caribbean, Travelzoo suggests Ecuador, where recent return airfare from the U.S. has hovered around $400 (less than some domestic flights). The Ecuadorian government is expected to make a major push in 2014 by increasing its tourism budget by 73 percent and luring travelers headed to the World Cup in Brazil. This, Travelzoo believes, will create a deal-driven environment for travelers destined for this diverse nation of towering Andean peaks, misty Amazonian rainforests and mysterious Galapagos Islands.

Europe’s Rivers

The cruise ship Lady Anne sits in dock in the town of Boppard, Germany. Reuters

Behold the rise of European river cruising. An expected 20 new vessels will trawl the waters of Europe in 2014, adding hundreds of new cabins, increasing competition and driving down prices, according to Travelzoo. From tulip tours to Christmas markets and historical journeys, the itineraries are varied, but each of these often all-inclusive adventures provides a great way to see Europe on the cheap.

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There are two very good reasons to travel across the globe to “Incredible India” in 2014. Firstly, the rupee has plummeted in value against the U.S. dollar by more than 20 percent over the past year, making it one of the cheapest countries in the world for American travelers. Secondly, India is in the midst of a hotel boom, with major chains like Accor, Hilton, Hyatt and InterContinental preparing to open upwards of 50 hotels combined in the coming year. To recap: Already low prices + increased competition = big savings.