Top five bargain destinations for fall 2007

As summer cools off, fall sales heat up. For flexible travelers on a budget, this upcoming season is the ultimate time to travel. Better prices, fewer crowds, and often the most pleasant weather of the year make fall an unbeatable time to get the most for your money.

I’ve monitored travel trends, industry news, and sale patterns to point you in the direction of places that offer the best bargain value for the coming season. Below you’ll find examples of deals presently available for fall trips. Like all deals, these are sure to expire; however, a little research on your part can yield similar results when you’re ready to book.

Mexico

New and expanded service, plus sales and booking deals make Mexico a bargain destination this fall. Time your trip right, and you can make the most of the season in other ways as well: Peak hurricane season tapers off after September (though it officially runs to November 30) and the crowded winter tourism season doesn’t kick in until the holidays, which makes mid-fall the time to go for good prices, pleasant weather, and fewer crowds.

United’s worldwide fall sale includes destinations in Mexico, with fares such as $308 round-trip between Chicago and Puerto Vallarta. Book fall travel by August 20 to take advantage of the sale fares. Both Alaska and United are offering bonus miles and frequent flyer-mile purchase discounts for Mexico travel this fall. And, US Airways is running sales to Mazatlan and Los Cabos.

New service this season from two providers means even more choice for passengers. On December 15, Frontier Airlines will introduce five new routes between the U.S. and Mexico. The airline has introductory fares for new service from Albuquerque, Milwaukee, Sacramento, San Diego, and San Jose. Plus, Mexico’s new low-cost carrier vivaaerobus.com has applied to fly between Austin and Monterrey, Guadalajara, Puebla, Leon, Queretaro, and Cancun starting in November.

This fall also stands out because of more choices and better prices on air-and-hotel vacation packages. Mexicana just launched its vacation package website, with customizable itineraries from departure cities around the U.S. Meanwhile, at press time, JetBlue’s featured vacation specials included round-trip airfare from New York and four nights at an all-inclusive resort in Cancun from $435 per person.

For information on the latest sales, and tips on travel to Mexico, visit the SmarterTravel.com Mexico Travel Guide.