The World Cup is fast approaching and, of course, vacationing in Rio during that time could and probably will be quite hectic. So, whether you’re planning to attend and want to extend your vacation or want to stay miles away while getting a similar experience for less, we’ve got the Top 10 options.
Just to offer a comparison based on priceline.com rates, a June 14-21 trip to Rio for the World Cup would cost $3,800 per person with roundtrip airfare from New York, plus a six-night hotel stay. That’s a pretty hefty price tag but for some, the experience is worth it.
If you’re looking to add on to your adventure or do something altogether different, many of the following *vacation packages are far less expensive with stays during the same time frame.
- Cape Town, South Africa – Veneto Hotel Package, 3 stars, $922. Home to a wide array of scenic adventures, from Table Mountain to glorious beaches this destination also boasts renowned vineyards and UNESCO World Heritage Site Robben Island.
- Costa Rica – Barcelo Tambor Beach Hotel Package, 3.5 stars, $1,070. This is a perfect adventurous getaway — enjoy hiking, zip-lining and surfing among other outdoor activities.
- Panama City, Panama – Panama Marriott Package, 4 stars, $1,187. One of the most cosmopolitan cities in Central America and this summer marks the 100th anniversary of the Panama Canal.
- Cozumel, Mexico – Presidente Intercontinental Cozumel Package, 4.5 stars, $1,200; this property has a 9.1 satisfaction score. Head to this island to indulge in a variety of water activities from snorkeling with green sea turtles to sunbathing on some of the island’s famed beaches.
- Cartagena, Colombia – Radisson Cartagena Ocean Pavilion Package, 3 stars, $1,421. This bustling and historic city has lots to see and explore, including a true foodie scene with picturesque open-air cafes.
- Phuket, Thailand – JW Marriott Phuket Package, 5 stars, $1,970; best availability June 7-14 Thailand’s largest, and many say most luxurious, island offers everything from beaches and deep-sea diving to high-end dining and lavish spa experiences.
- Dubrovnik, Croatia – Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Package, 5 stars, $2,400. Dubbed by many as one of the best medieval walled cities in the world, this historic destination offers culture and beautiful scenery.
- Sydney, Australia – Holiday Inn Darling Harbour Package, 4 stars, $2,507. It’s an exhilarating destination for the thrill- and culture-seeker alike. Home to the famous Bondi and Manly Beaches and many more, as well as renowned cultural sites, such as the Sydney Opera House.
- Marbella, Costa del Sol – Puente Romano Hotel Package, 5 stars, $2,686. Situated on the Mediterranean Sea, between Málaga and the Gibraltar Strait, this destination offers more than 20 different beaches as well as fun festivals and other cultural activities.
- Cairns, Australia – Hilton Cairns Package, 4 stars, $2,777. So maybe forget Rio altogether and enjoy The Great Barrier Reef as your playground.
And just a few necessary international travel tips to enhance your experience:
- 1. Be flexible: Consider flying into smaller airports near your destination rather than the major city.
- 2. Score luxury for less: Priceline has a nice sleek app that you can book rooms directly, or find an “Express Deal” for hotels which lets you find a deeply discounted room without bidding for it — even for last-minute bookings.
- 3. Pack light: Keeping your luggage to a minimum will not only save on fees, it really reduces hassles while traveling too.
- 4. Be savvy: Researching tour operators and guides before hiring them. A majority of good or bad reviews is very telling, so do some homework ahead of time.
- 5. Avoid the kitsch: If you also concentrate on buying from smaller local shops or rural communities, you’ll end up with a souvenir that’s not only authentic, but a great value.
Finally and most importantly, have fun.
*All packages include airfare from New York and are priced per person.
