When it comes to finding the best travel deals, it pays to be a contrarian traveler, especially this summer. To think contrarian, it’s all about opting for off-peak destinations and discovering lesser-known European cities.
- Off-Peak Desert: For an off-season deal, head to Arizona where the JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa has rooms starting from $179 a night, including $100 resort credit. The savings run from May 16 through September 14, 2013. Book by calling 800-228-9290, using the code PKG. Also in Arizona, the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess has rates that start at $209 a night, including $50 resort credit, with unlimited daily golf at the TPC Scottsdale’s Champions Course starts from $35 per person.
- Summer Mountains: When ski season is over, hiking season starts. In Colorado, summer rates at The Broadmoor start from $175 per person, a 30 percent discount on published rates. With the rates includes a free fitness class, free access to The Broadmoor movie theater, and a discount to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. Then in Vermont, Stoweflake Resort has rooms from $119.50 per night through May 31. Then in June, July and August, rooms start from $149.50 with $50 resort credit to use in the spa or restaurant. (Use code CBS50)
- Secret European Deals: According to Orbitz, Paris hotels rates are up 37 percent. You can still find a deal in Europe this summer, it’s all about choosing alternate cities for extra savings. Opt for Lisbon instead of Madrid, and think Milan instead of Rome.
Watch Peter’s CBS This Morning report for his method to scoring summer deals.
For more summer travel deals, see why The Time to Book Summer Travel is Now and discover more Sizzling Summer Savings.
