Take a guided tour of the world

Bangkok

Bangkok, Thailand's capital, flawlessly blends modern technology with ancient culture. Dotted with historical temples and shrines, this thriving metropolis offers fine dining, upscale boutiques, and luxury resorts. One way to save is by searching for discounts on major airlines that serve the city, including Malaysia Airlines, Cathay Pacific, and Singapore Airlines.

Monk meditating at the Wat Mahathat, Bangkok, Thailand (Photo: Index Open)

Savannah

With its charming outdoor squares, rich history, and friendly atmosphere, Savannah has made itself into one of the South's most popular destinations. The riverfront is a favorite stop for many, with its shops, restaurants, and an unobstructed view of the water. Try taking a guided ghost tour, going on a carriage ride, or sampling real down-home Southern cooking. Savannah is notable for its historic hotels and B&Bs, and you may be able to save by checking for deals on sites such as HistoricInnsofSavannah.com.

Angel in Bonaventure Cemetery, Savannah, Georgia (Photo: Brian Alvarez, iStockphoto)

Italy

With its elegant architecture, breathtaking countryside and coastline, and gastronomical wonders, Italy has long been a favorite of Europe travelers. With 20 different regions, the country offers something for even the most finicky travelers. You can cut down on costs by staying in alternative accommodations such as a convent or an apartment.

Alleyway in Vernazza, Cinque Terre, Italy (Photo: Index Open)

Istanbul

by Kate Hamman, Assistant Editor

For the past two years, I and the other editors at SmarterTravel.com have worked tirelessly to create a series of online travel guides that provide you with one-stop shopping when researching a destination. We hope you'll enjoy this virtual tour around the world with photos of the newest destinations we've added to our guides.

Istanbul combines the best of Asia and Europe, seamlessly blending very different cultures, which is reflected in its architecture, food, and art. Package discounters such as Gate 1 Travel and go-today.com provide a simple way to save on trips to this Turkish city by bundling airfare and hotel.

The Blue Mosque, Istanbul, Turkey (Photo: Jivko Kazakov, iStockphoto)

Denver

Denver acts as a gateway to the Rocky Mountains, but visitors will also find a bustling downtown filled with shops, restaurants, and a happening nightlife. This mile-high city is also a prime spot for adventure enthusiasts, as visitors can spend the day outdoors exploring the surrounding mountains and return to the city for comfortable amenities. Denver is an affordable city to visit, with many discount airlines, including Southwest and JetBlue, offering low-cost fares.

Denver State Capitol (Photo: Elizabeth Chelsea, iStockphoto)

Maui

Maui is a prime vacation destination for families, adventure and golf enthusiasts, honeymooners, and anyone in need of a tropical getaway. Some of the best beaches in Hawaii surround the island, which attract sun bathers, surfers, and other active travelers. Maui is an expensive destination in general, but you may be able to save on air travel by looking for sale fares at least three months in advance. Aloha, Delta, Hawaiian, and United all serve Maui.

Maui sunset (Photo: Index Open)

Malaysia

With modern cities like Kuala Lumpur, tropical islands and rainforests, and a packed calendar of festivals, Malaysia has seemingly endless vacation options. Although flights to the country may seem a bit pricey, you can save by booking an airfare-and-hotel package through a travel provider such as eMalaysiaTravel.com.

Langkawi Island, Malaysia (Photo: Marcus Brown, iStockphoto)

Puerto Vallarta

View of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico (Photo: Index Open)

France

From world-class cheese and wine to picturesque villages and fashionable cities, France posesses all the elements of a dream destination. Paris is the main stop for most visitors, but the countryside offers a delightful glimpse into Old World lifestyles. You can spend a pretty penny taking in the sights, especially in Paris, but you can save by using attraction discount passes such as the Paris Museum Pass.

Field of Lavender, Provence, France (Photo: Index Open)

Dublin

Dublin is quickly becoming a cosmopolitan city while retaining the charm of old Ireland. You can still find traditional music, art, and food among boutique shops and upscale restaurants. Dublin may be an expensive city to visit, but you can cut a few euros with discounted accommodation rates through hotelsireland.com.

Dublin pub (Photo: Index Open)

Edinburgh

With its namesake castle looming above the city, Edinburgh captures the spirit of medieval times, yet also boasts trendy hotels, restaurants, and night clubs. Visitors can take guided ghost tours, enjoy a pint at one of the many local pubs, or get a bird's eye view of the city from the inside of a camera obscura. One the best ways to save on an Edinburgh trip is to book an airfare-and-hotel package, which are often cheaper than booking flights and accommodations separately. Try package discounters like EuropeASAP and go-today.com.

Edinburgh church (Photo: Stephen Finn, iStockphoto)