Tweets from Last Night - Finding Value while Traveling

Last night travelers from around the globe met on twitter to discuss how to get the most value out of  their travel. AmericanExpress sponsored the Finding Value While Traveling event, and three lucky travel lovers won $200 American Express gift cards! Read on to find out how globe trotters stretch their dollar while exploring the world.

Q1. With 59% of consumers traveling this summer, what are you doing to get the most bang for your buck?    

• making the travel worth more than just the memories, i.e. making a difference as well   #travel PTPItravel
• I'm keeping it local this summer. I'm lucky. There's a lot to see around Texas and Louisiana. You need air conditioning, though. FrankDiCesare
• You know you're using your CityPASS....   #shamelessplug #tootmyownhorn #I'mawesome.com   CityPASS
• Looks like I'll be driving to all of my summer vacation spots this year... And packing my own liquor :) elleswim
•  Booked flights 3 months in advance. There are last minute deals out there, but if you're set on something, best to book early! ^MY   FareBuzz
• stay in hostels if they are available they are cheap and great way to meet people and most have private rooms Mysticfail
  

Q2. Destination you’ve traveled to with the most value? Least?    

• most: cambodia, least: switzerland (but worth every cent and then some) jonk
• most value Argentina, Laos, Thailand...least value Nigeria, Angola, Equatorial Guinea, Papua New Guinea LeeAbbamonte
• Most: DC-there is so much to see & do-an invaluable family experience! Least: Amusement Parks (but always fun!)  ConciergeQ
• As a destination, Egypt gives great value: the ancient history, cheap inns to stay, etc. ilivetotravel
•  Most value? Nicaragua. Least? Iceland was pricey, but I went amid their economic crisis monicalwilliams

A trip to Australia doesn't come cheap!

Q3. Hotel value added amenities that are musts? Breakfast? Wifi? Late check-out?    

• definitely free wifi. also a free bottle of water never hurts. and airport transfers while i'm at it. :D jonk
• late checkout is nice but ya WIFI is a must can't imagine staying anywhere without it these days Mysticfail
• When desperate times call for desperate measures I'm not opposed to living off hotel pillow chocolates to save a buck   FreakOutOfTown
• Awesome breakfast buffet, free waters in gym & rooms, turn down service with chocolates! LandingStanding
• Breakfast is nice, but not a must-have. Late check-out and wi-fi (or at least easy access to a computer) are hi on my list unkaps
• FH&R has 700 properties around the world.Card members get upgrades when available,free brkfst, late checkouts   thetravelmom
• A great location; close to shops, sightseeing, beach, attractions is number one. LimeWave

Breakfast delivered to your room - no need to order in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

 Q4. Favorite tips or tricks for getting the most out of your travel dollar?    

• research so you don't get caught wondering where to go/eat/stay for the best  jonk
• value. also, nab those hotel toiletries!
• We cook our own food when we can... heliyes
• If you're looking for deals on attractions in the area, read the local publications. FrankDiCesare
• book on CC with good points or cashback, walk when possible, rent bike and tour the city yourself is great 2 MomBunny2
• Use a reputable travel agent! You get more value for whatever level of spend. Plus we've been there, done that, so know the tricks TravelMaestro
• Research, research, research. Book activities when you get there; not through the hotel or tour operator. Saves you ££s ($$s). lethers
• Bring crazy-flavored chips and candy home as presents. Cheap and fun! Brought jamon Pringles home from Spain, was a huge hit. 10Best

Exploring the Grand Canyon is a great value trip

Q5. Tips for saving on entertainment, like Broadway shows or concerts, when traveling?

• Online groups and last minute ticket deals amywhiggins
• I'd tell how I USED to get into concerts for free during my misspent youth, but then I could never run for public office... ;) TheSundayDriver
• for a Broadway show head to the TKTS booth in Times Square for discounts- $25 rush tickets and last minute discounts NewYorkHabitat
• Tkts to sport events, concerts & live events can be purchased with membership points through Ticketmaster  ,   thetravelmom
• Look for discounts online. Or, discount ticket sellers or rush tickets for last-minute deals. tweetsfromjody
• Free nights at museums, or discounted entry close to closing time.  eableView
• If you have cash, getting last-minute tickets to BWay shows is a great way to pay below value. Also: consider the art of scalping. FreakOutOfTown
• Check out local festivals and summer shows. Those outdoors are usually free in the summer. Go local.   lethers

Q6. How do you explore somewhere you’ve never been without taking expensive tours?    

• We think using an agent is the best way - American Express Travel agents can make sure you get the best deals & secure reservations   LouHammondPR
• Frommer's, Fodor's, Lonely Planet and locals   noelleluxtrav
• We love to check with our "local experts" on ConciergeQ -- some truly wonderful & unique ideas! ConciergeQ
• Twitter helps, but where there's a will there's usually a way. marksmayo
• We use to use AAA THey gave us free maps and guide books for the city we're visiting MomBunny2
• Rent bikes for the day, print out a map, and be on your way. Don't forget a lock!   Bungolow

 Q7. Time is money – tricks to make the most of your time on vacation?    

• wake up early, seize the day!   candacki
• Avoid flights with layovers. Even if it costs $100 more, direct flights are worth it. Bungolow
• if you're awake due to jet lag, get up and go -- explore your destination as it wakes up #sunrise jonk
• Don't sleep in! Make the most of your days, mornings are just as beautiful as the night    brightroam
• Visit Scandinavia/Finland in July n the day never ends n watch the midnight Sun. Make max of ur TIME!!! pixodentist
• Take more days... You'll never regret that.   StayAdventurous

 Q8. Credit card, hotel program, airline points that stretch the value of your dollar? How?    

• When u use AmEx Platinum they dont charge any foreign transaction fees. thetravelmom
• I do know that   provides users with insurance, which I have seen come in handy several times. noelleluxtrav
• Never get tired of telling how I flew to China FIRST CLASS for $99! Thks Amex Rewards http://t.co/LX51f4B7 TravelProducer
• I like hotel sites that lets you earn free night, e.g. @hotelsdotcom jettingaround

Q9. How do you get the best value dining out while traveling?     

• I like hotel sites that lets you earn free night, e.g. @hotelsdotcom jettingaround
• Ask locals for suggestions. #food soleynm
• Eat food served out of a truck on the side of the road. It's very "in" right now so you'll save $ and be super hip FreakOutOfTown
• Eat at the best places. Very simple, never bad value if you're getting the best food in a place that they offer, money well spent LeeAbbamonte
• Split a meal, and find a good place for desert later! DontJudgeMyADD
• Points can be redeemed for casual or fine dining with Platinum Card & Open Table Gift Certicates thetravelmom
• Find the main tourist street, then go one-block to the side. Prices halve, & the quality is sometimes better. marksmayo

Costa Rica is a great value destination with affordable flights and good exchange rates.

Q10. What is one thing you would never mind paying extra for while traveling?    

• Customer service-If a hotel has better service than a less exp. one I will always go w/great customer service nycmartini
• I never mind paying for a round of drinks for me and my friends :) CruiseBuzz
• Once in a lifetime experiences. Go for it when you have the chance! lindblomsten
• $450/yr for AMEX plat lounges, FHR program! TheDealMommy
• An iconic experience like a gondola ride, trip to the top of the Alps or Eiffel Tower, etc. toeuropewithkid
• A really good massage at a nice hotel. Ahh Travora

A special thanks to #TNI hosts last night SmarterTravel TravelSquire FlyingwithFIsh and  thetravelmom! Make sure to follow them on twitter for the latest in travel and travel deals.

Join us next week on twitter by adding #TNI to your tweets at 3:30ET on Thursday!