Book hotels with kitchenettes for extra savings

Dining out can be the most fun part of a vacation, but also an easy way to overspend your budget. Choosing accommodations wisely, however—hotels or rentals with kitchenettes, for example—can provide the best of both worlds: You can cook some meals at a much lesser cost, or dine out and re-heat leftovers later for additional savings.

The following nationwide hotel chains offer rooms with kitchenettes:

• Homewood Suites feature full kitchens in each suite. Perks include full refrigerators, two-burner stoves, dishwashers, and dining tables.
• Residence Inn properties have fully equipped kitchens, daily breakfast, and even grocery delivery.
• Staybridge Suites also offers full kitchens and a daily breakfast buffet.

In my research as [% 47317 | | Weekend Getaways %] editor, I’ve also found many Mom-and-Pop properties provide kitchenettes, particularly in resort locations catering to families. For example, I’ve seen numerous beachside motels in Florida that have such amenities. Contact the chamber of commerce or tourism bureau in the destination you wish to visit to inquire about similar properties.

Like any big purchase, you may have to do a bit of research to determine your best value. For example, if you’re a fan of bare-bones restaurants and hotels, choosing lower-end accommodations and dining out on the cheap may be the best plan. However, if you like a mix of mid-end and luxury dining and hotel options, or if you’re traveling with a family or group of friends, accommodations with a kitchenette may go far in stretching your budget.

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