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Florida vacation prices are going down

BY JAY CLARKE | Special to Newsday

October 26, 2008

The white-sand beaches of the St. Petersburg and Clearwater area in Florida provide the perfect setting for every kind of beach-goer, from natural beaches on remote barrier islands to city beaches. ( )

Behold, there is a silver lining.

Although the nation's economic malaise continues, one result is that Florida vacations are becoming more affordable. Hotel rates are softening, more money-saving packages are being offered, some amazing cruise deals are showing up and gasoline prices are tumbling.

That's the good news.

The bad? Airlines have cut back on service and have raised prices. That means fewer seats are available on flights to Florida, and unless the declining price of oil prompts some reductions, fares will remain at their current level.

Of course, autumn is the slack season in much of Florida, and deals always abound at that time. This year, though, the discounts look to be deeper.

"We're down at least 10 percent of where we had expected to be," said Derek Baum of the decline in visitors to Rosen Hotels leisure properties in Orlando, which he oversees. "We're sensitive to what the economy is doing. ... We're trying to encourage travelers. All our packages are reduced."

Some extraordinary deals also are cropping up for cruises sailing out of Florida. This month, for instance, Norwegian Cruise Line came up with a $99 starting price for a four-day cruise out of Miami to the Bahamas. That's $25 a day. Such deals, however, tend to come and go quickly, so anyone hoping to latch onto one should monitor the market diligently.

An exception to lowering costs in Florida are Miami and Miami Beach, where hotel rates are expected to increase 3 percent to 4 percent this winter.

Here's a look at several Florida destinations where travelers may get more bang for their bucks during this economic downturn. Packages may not include taxes and service fees, and are subject to availability, booking deadlines, blackout dates, minimum stays and change without notice.

1: ORLANDO

Here, in theme park central, the slowing economy is taking its toll. Hotel rates are down, and we are starting to see more promotions. Dozens of Web sites steer visitors to deals offered by economy, moderate and luxury hotels, as well as discounts on attractions and dining.

One example: The Quality Inn on International Drive offers a $59.99 rate until Dec. 23, including full American breakfast buffet, two welcome drinks, $25 food and beverage discount coupons, kids eat free with paying adult (one for one) and free shuttle to Universal and Sea World.

If you prefer to be in a theme park, Walt Disney World also offers a $59 rate at its Value Resorts until Dec. 23. And, starting in January, you'll get free admission to the park on your birthday.

INFORMATION Greater Orlando/Orange County Convention and Visitors Bureau, 407-363-5872, orlandoinfo.com.

2: CLEARWATER

Clearwater's beach is listed in the "Guinness Book of Records" as having the most days of sunshine in a year (361). In addition, it's close to the big-city attractions of St. Petersburg and Tampa - professional baseball, football and hockey teams, Busch Gardens theme park, a major zoo and aquarium.

Gulfview Boulevard, the beachfront drive, is lined with miles of affordable lodgings, restaurants and shops.

"Prices are going down. We have two-bedroom, two-bath beachfront condos at $129 a night until Dec. 20," said Joe Jorgenson, co-owner of Travel Resort Services, which markets more than 700 units. Condos are attractive for families because they can cook their own meals.

INFORMATION St. Petersburg/Clearwater Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, 877-352-3224, floridasbeach.com.

3: FORT LAUDERDALE