For many summer Auburn residents, the idea of a vacation seems too time-consuming and expensive to be practical. However, weekend trips to nearby locations can be an inexpensive way to relax and enjoy the season.
With gas prices on the decline, now is the time to travel. Clay Ingram, public relations and marketing manager for AAA of Alabama, explains the recent decrease in oil prices.
"The most prominent reason is that our demand, while rising during this time of year, is much lower than it usually is during the spring compared to previous years," he said.
With gas as a minor expense, taking a vacation within driving distance can be cheap.
For many vacationers, alcohol is on the agenda. A Mecca for bars and nightlife, New Orleans, La., is a travel destination about five hours from Auburn.
Joanna Hornig, from Auburn travel agency Travel Travel, suggested New Orleans for those bearing a budget.
"New Orleans you can do reasonably cheap," she said. "It's a popular location for college-aged students."
Travelers can find hotels in downtown New Orleans starting at only $49 per night, or in the French Quarter starting at $74 per night.
Only a two-hour drive from Auburn, Atlanta, Ga., is another inviting travel option. Atlanta has tons to do, and many of its attractions are cheap or even free. Places like the Museum of Natural History, the
Atlanta Botanical Gardens and the Atlanta Zoo cost only $12 per visit.
Also in Atlanta, the Sweetwater Brewery gives free tours Wednesday through Saturday. Bands play on the patio March through Septermber, and dogs are allowed.
For more refined fun, head north of Atlanta to Chateau Elan. This travel escape offers a variety of affordable amenities including golf, spa treatments, restaurants and a winery.
For $199, a couple can purchase the "Wine Tasting Experience Package," which includes both wine tasting classes and overnight accommodations.
For $55 more, you can experience the "Wine and Dine Package," which offers a deluxe overnight stay at the Chateau Elan Inn, a bottle of wine delivered to the room upon arrival and dinner for two at one of the hotel's restaurants.
Other packages at Chateau Elan run in the $180-$350 price range and vary according to interest, such as fitness and spa packages and romantic overnight retreats.
For nature lovers, Callaway Gardens in Pine Mountain, Ga., (just outside of Columbus) is another inexpensive and nearby travel opportunity.
Covering 13,000 acres, Callaway Gardens attracts visitors with walking and bike trails, wildlife centers, recreational activities, a spa and the world's largest, inland man-made beach.
Allison Smith, junior in finance, grew up near Callaway Gardens.
"It's as close to nature as you can get," she said. "I like that you're in a woodsy area, but still close to fun things."
She said Callaway Gardens provides entertainment for all age groups.
"I went there when I was a kid," said Smith, "and we always rode the train, and I still like riding the train."
Packages start at $79 and include accommodations at the gardens' Mountain Creek Inn and admission to all outdoor facilities.
Like Chateau Elan, Callaway Gardens offers packages suited to specific interests like golf and tennis.
If you are looking to be near the coast but want a change from the gulf beaches, Savannah, Ga., is an appealing alternative.
Lindsay Whitaker of the Savannah Visitors Bureau suggested staying in the Historic District to save money and avoid excessive driving.
"In the Historic District," she said, "you will be able to get around and see the sites without a car.".
Whitaker commented on the abundance of activities Savannah offers.
"Savannah has all different kinds of restaurants, ranging in cuisines
and prices," she said. "Savannah also has some great shopping, and you can find some great buys on Broughton Street, in City Market or on River Street."
Whitaker also said Savannah appeals to a college-age crowd.
"For the college person age 21 and up, you will be able to partake in the Savannah 'to-go cup,'" she said. "You are able to carry your alcoholic beverage with you as long as you stay in the Historic District and as long as you have it in the appropriate cup."
If all else fails, pack up a tent and go camping for the weekend. State parks like Wind Creek and Lakepoint Resort are close by and have campgrounds that cost about $21-$25 per night.
Class and work should not dismiss travel opportunities for the entire summer. If you find yourself looking at Facebook pictures of your friends in Europe with envy, get off the computer and embark on your own escape.
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