Thrifty and Thriving

According to a recent AP story, fewer Americans are planning to travel during the holidays. The reason? For some, it’s avoiding the hassle and lines at the airport. For others, it’s the cost. Those that are planning to travel will most likely drive. Read more.

Once again, we’re planning to make our trip down to Georgia by car. For a family of four, we just think it would be way too expensive to fly. Are you traveling during the holiday season? How are you getting there?

I can’t imagine a situation where I would do it myself, but it obviously happens, since a few airlines charge a fee for it. It’s just one of many fees you should consider before heading off to the airport. I found an interesting story yesterday from the AP that rounds up various airline fees you may not know about. For example, did you know you could pay extra to check your boogie board? And one airline even charges a fee if you’re flying with an infant under age 2. Read more.

Have you been hit recently by an airline with a fee you thought was ridiculous? Share it here.

My mom would appreciate this post, as she just went to see Jersey Boys in New York and can’t wait to go back. If you want to see a Broadway show, but don’t think you can afford it, check out this video from Smart Money that provides tips on how to save (there’s a short commercial first, then it loads).

The reporter in this video mentions some Web sites to check out, but I thought she flew through them kind of fast, so here’s some links to the ones she mentions below.

For same-day discounts:

• New York: Find a TKTS booth.
• Boston: Find a Bostix booth or buy online.
• Las Vegas: Tix 4 Tonight.

To find coupon codes online:

• Theatermania.com.
• Broadwaybox.com.

Have you ever used any of these resources to save on theater tickets? If not, what resources have you used? Share your experiences.

Another Internet snafu benefitted some lucky vacationers in Italy. Due to human error, the Crowne Plaza in Quarto D’Altino accidently booked approximately 1400 nights to guests for 1 euro. The best part is, the hotel plans to honor the confirmed reservations. Read the whole story.