Easy To Find Bargains In Summer Travel

Budget doesn’t mean skimping or being cheap. Budget does mean getting the most bang for the buck - in a word, value. Too many vacationers judge a trip by the cost of the air fare. Air fares are just one part of the trip; some destinations with costly flights may have less costly accommodations, meals, etc.

Here are just a few ideas for saving or getting good value for your travel dollars this summer.

Books: “The Total Guidebooks,” a new series with just two titles for now, “New York for Less” and “London for Less” promises not just information on the cities in the titles but discounts of 20 to 50 percent on hotels, dining and attractions. Both books are well laid out with mini-maps to all attractions, color photos on every page, and good advice for the tourist. The books are $19.95 each in bookstores, or call (888) 463-6753 ($4.95 extra for shipping).

Among the best “books” for travelers are the Entertainment guides. Entertainment produces coupon books for just about every major city or destination in the United States, many in Canada and London, and half-price hotel guides for hotels worldwide. One of the main features of the guides is their two-for-one restaurant deals for area dining and discounts on everything from shopping and attractions to services. But also tucked into the back of each edition are discount coupons good on American and Continental airlines for savings of from $25 to $100 on domestic and international flights. There are also discounts on hotels, rental cars, cruises and more. Thus, these books can pay for themselves in less than a day.

The Entertainment guides are $30-$40 each and are sold annually through nonprofit groups or can be ordered by calling (800) 445-4137. Most deals are good only through the calendar year, ending Dec. 31, but even at this late date the books are a good value.

If you are traveling by car, and most vacationers do, membership of the American Automobile Association offers more than road service. You also get discounts on attractions, accommodations and dining. Call (800) 222-8250 for details.

Rental cars. If you are heading to Europe for an extended stay of 17 or more days, consider leasing rather then renting a car. Renault Eurodrive has been offering low-cost, short-term leases on brand new Renaults for years. This year, Renault has teamed up with AutoNet International to include coupons good for free accommodations throughout Europe. Rates begin at $525 and include many extras. Call (800) 221-3460 for details.

Hotels. Deals can be found almost everywhere. In the Caribbean, the Four Seasons Resort Nevis has won just about every accolade possible. The deal here is to visit off-season - through mid-December - for rates up to half off those of high season. Call (800) 332-3442.

Marriott offers its Two for Breakfast weekend stays beginning at $89 a couple that include breakfast at more than 155 locations nationwide. Pay for the deal with a Visa card and save even more. Call (800) 872-9563. Hyatt has a Ready Set Stay deal at its resorts that offers savings of up to 50 percent through Aug. 31. A bonus could be free golf or discounts on hotel services. Call (800) 554-9288.

Sports. If you enjoy golf, consider these: The Pointe Hilton Resort in Phoenix has a Drive Yourself Crazy package at $104 single, $129 double through Sept. 20 that includes one day of golf for each night registered, with guaranteed tee time as well as unlimited golf for the rest of the day on a standby basis. Call (800) 747-7111.

Cruises. Book early and save. Travelers who book October through December voyages aboard the highly rated Radisson Diamond or Song of Flower at least 120 days in advance can enjoy savings of up to $2,300 a couple on 7- to 11-day sailings in exotic locations. Many lines offer such deals. See a travel agent.

Hostels. Many hostels now have accommodations for families and couples, and are located in popular destinations and interesting settings. For information on locations, or joining, write to Hostelling International, American Youth Hostels, 733 15th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20005; or telephone (202) 783-6161.