Tips on Traveling Local This Summer

Summer is officially here and vacation is on everyone's mind—but you don't have to travel across the country or even out of state to have the perfect vacation. Whether you're looking to take a day trip, long weekend or week-long summer vacation, Connecticut has destinations for all ages, families and budgets.
 
With 169 cities and towns, over 250 miles of scenic coastline, more than 100 craft breweries and wineries, 18 world-class museums, 2,000 miles of hiking and biking paths, and more—residents can spend less time getting to their destination and more time enjoying their time off in Connecticut.
 
A getaway closer to home can be relaxing, or extremely adventurous, or both, and the glory is that you get to decide! You can stay in your own city or visit one nearby. Regardless, the goal is to get away from your day-to-day life, discover something new and have fun.
 
Better Business Bureau Serving Connecticut and Connecticut Office of Tourism have teamed up to bring you tips on how to create the perfect local getaway.
 
  • Figure out what you want to do. Are you a foodie looking to discover a new restaurant or are you looking for a relaxing spa getaway? Do you want to stay in your area or explore other cities and towns? Browse a variety of activities, experiences and destinations at CTvisit.com.
 
  • Make a budget. Determine how much you are able to spend. Staying closer to home may allow you to optimize your budget since you don't have other added travel expenses.
 
  • Search online. So much can be found online including local festivals, restaurant weeks, free events or even a place that you never knew existed. You can also check social media geotags to see where popular destinations are plus see photos from past travelers. Check out #CTvisit for inspiration.
 
  • Look for discounts. Traveling local may already seem like a money saver but there are sometimes extra discounts or packages available for families, couples, military or general travelers. You can check CTvisit.com/deals for current discounts on local travel destinations.
 
  • Check reviews. Read customer reviews and search BBB.org/ct for information on a local attraction, restaurant or business before you visit. Know the cancellation policy if you book an excursion or activity especially if you have to reserve with a credit card.
 
Residents can go to CTvisit.com, the state’s official tourism website, for travel ideas and inspiration, and BBB.org/ct for the latest information and reviews of Connecticut businesses.
 
About BBB Serving Connecticut
For more than 100 years, Better Business Bureau has been helping people find businesses, brands and charities they can trust. In 2018, people turned to BBB more than 173 million times for BBB Business Profiles on nearly 5.4 million businesses and Charity Reports on 11,000 charities, all available for free at BBB.org/ct. There are local, independent BBBs across the United States, Canada and Mexico, including BBB Serving Connecticut, which was founded in 1928 and serves businesses and organizations throughout the state. 
 
About the Connecticut Office of Tourism
The Connecticut Office of Tourism, a division of the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD), is dedicated to enhancing the economic growth of Connecticut’s tourism industry. Together with its many state and industry partners, the Office of Tourism works to bolster the state’s reputation as a destination that offers a diverse mix of activities and attractions, all in close proximity to each other—from the exciting and relaxing to the historic and innovative to the culture- and nature-focused. For more information about Connecticut tourism, or to plan your next trip to Connecticut, visit www.CTvisit.com.
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Submitted by Somers, NY

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