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November 5, 2016

How To Master Holiday Home Decor

The holidays are just around the corner and that means giving your space a festive refresh. Explore how to master holiday home decor with our favorite tips and save on DIY supplies with Cash Back at Ebates.

Wrap Your Photos for Some Festive Flair.

Have art or family photos hanging on your walls? Choose classic wrapping paper with festive designs or opt for something metallic and chic for a modern touch. Wrap the photos, add some decorative ribbon and hang them back up for a simple holiday look using supplies you probably already have hanging around the house.

Fill Your Favorite Fruit Bowl with Ornaments.

Put a large fruit bowl on your dining table and fill it with your favorite holiday ornaments for a simple statement. Classic round metallic ornaments in silver and gold offer a modern look. Add pinecones or vary the ornament size for visual interest and you have the easiest holiday home decor ever.

Sweeten Things Up with Holiday Treats.

Create a sweet setup with simple holiday goodies. Use red and white striped peppermints and other festive candies and fill up clear jars or modern vases for easy holiday home decorating on a budget. Vibrant red cranberries make a gorgeous Thanksgiving-inspired touch.

Use Mini Ornaments to Make a Statement.

Add a simply chic touch to your home’s greenery with mini ornaments. Use small ornaments to decorate indoor plants for a fresh take on holiday home decorations. Use white lights for a chic touch and bring the lights and hardy plants to entranceways and porches to spread your holiday decorating ideas to your outdoor living space as well.

Float Ornaments for a Festive Ambience.

Add a whimsical flair to your Christmas holiday decor with clear filament string and classic round ornaments. Tie the string to each ornament hook and hang from light fixtures or hooks on the ceiling for a modern floating look. Especially adorable for a DIY holiday photo booth.

Design a Space-Saving Spruce.

Have a chalkboard wall? Draw your Christmas tree with chalk for a simple and fun addition to your holiday decor ideas. You (and the kids) can draw your own holiday ornaments and use different colored chalkboard pens to make lights. Another fun alternative: use green masking tape on your wall to shape a spruce on the wall.

Craft an Ornament Wreath.

All you need is a hot glue gun, a foam crafting wreath and your favorite holiday embellishments to create unique holiday decorations. Glue on ornaments, pinecones, cranberries or a fun mixture of everything for a dazzling DIY accessory worthy of your front door or window. Be sure to use a craft supplies promo code and save on your creation with Cash Back at Ebates.

Add Greenery to Your Space.

Freshly cut evergreens, juniper, holly and more will add a beautiful touch to mantels, shelves and table centerpieces. Pair with pinecones or even a few simple ornaments for some easy and modern Christmas home decor.

Spray Paint Twigs Silver & Gold.

Gather thin winter branches and spray paint in classic silver and gold, then display them in a tall vase for a pretty metallic pop. Perfect for your mantel and windowsills, too.

Create a Makeshift Chandelier.

Dangle ornaments, holiday ribbon or festive pom-poms from your light fixtures to give your space a holiday spin.

Holiday Entertaining 101

Holiday entertaining doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. You can find amazing Christmas party ideas online. When you keep these holiday entertaining fundamentals in mind, creating a seasonal party is easy. Whether your holiday party is your first time hosting or if you’re a seasonal pro, we have everything you need to throw a memorable, enjoyable and affordable party.

Here are seven unique tips, from cocktails to themes to decorations. Plus, when you shop at any of the stores below, you’ll earn Cash Back at Ebates, which means even more money in your pocket for the holidays!

1. DIY Decoration Party

The autumn and winter holidays are all about decorations. If you want to entertain your guests and send them away with a special gift, stock up on the DIY materials for everyone to make their own seasonal decorating must-have. It’s a great way to start the party, get everyone in the holiday spirit and break the ice while making something fun and unique. Shop Joann Fabrics for all your craft needs and be sure to use an Ebates promo code at checkout to save.

2. Light Up the Night

Alternative lighting is the key to creating a festive atmosphere. Set the mood for your guests as soon as they walk in the door by turning off harsh overhead lighting and featuring small, soft light sources like string lights or votive candles. You can find a variety of beautiful candles that spread the scents of the season at ILLUME Candles where promo codes can save you a bundle.

3. Fun and Games

Games are a great way to entertain kids of all ages and get your guests chatting and laughing. Pop culture trivia games break the ice for adults and easy art projects will captivate kids. Check out the learning corner at Are You Game for great activities for all grade levels and cruise the adult games section for grown-up activities.

4. Toast for the Host

A specialty drink is a great way to establish your holiday party themes. There are many seasonal classics to choose from like mulled cider or wine, hot cocoa or egg nog, but it’s sometimes more fun to think out of the box when it comes to cocktails. Margaritaville Cargo carries quality party drink makers that you can offer with a holiday twist.

5. Finger Food Favorites

Although everyone loves a good feast, a holiday party meal doesn’t have to be a sit-down affair. If you feature a buffet of finger foods and appetizers, not only will your guests enjoy more variety, but everyone can eat whenever they’re hungry and avoid the post-meal urge to nap. For inspiring Christmas party food ideas pick up a seasonal issue of your favorite lifestyle magazine at Meredith Magazines.

6. All that Paper Good Glory

Jazz up classic Christmas party food ideas by turning bitesize cheesecakes into little Santa hats by adding strawberries on top. Or cut out brownies into triangles and add a drizzle of green icing to make Christmas tree brownies. Have enough disposables so that your guests can sample the array and even take some for the road. Stock up on all the disposable dish ware you need at Kmart.

10 Halloween Pet Costumes That Are Next Level Cuteness

We all know how hard group Halloween costumes can be to plan. But when the dynamic duo is just you and your furry friend, the possibilities are endless! Find the perfect pet costumes from pop-culture to just plain cute, all with Cash Back at Ebates. Don’t forget to get the best deal with a pet Halloween costumes promo code.

Ghostbuster Jumpsuit Costume, $20.96

This one might just take the cake when it comes to relevant doggy Halloween costumes, especially if your pooch is a girl. Because, let’s face it, girl Ghostbusters was the highlight of the year.

Lady Dogga Costume, $13.96

You’ll have to fight off those pupparazzi all night long because she’ll be looking too fly for words in this complete Gaga look.

Queen of Bones Dog Costume, $12.60

We know your pup really is the queen of the castle so it’s only fitting to get her a costume that reflects her regal nature.

Raptor Pet Costume, $23.96

This may be one of the best Halloween costumes for small dogs. Just for one day, let little Pebbles feel ferocious!

Star Wars Darth Vader Pet Costume, $19.19

Even dogs have a Dark Side. May the Force be with Fido this Halloween with a Darth Vader costume from Toys R Us.

Freddy Krueger Dog Costume, $25.94

Spike gets the “cute” treatment every day. Let Halloween be a chance for him to get spooky with this (still totally adorable) Freddy Krueger dog costume.

Dumb And Dumber Harry Dunne Dog Costume, $23.86

Now we’re not calling your dog dumb or anything, so don’t take this the wrong way. Maybe he is just a fan of fine cinema featuring Jim Carrey.

Star Wars At-At Imperial Walker Costume, $29.87

If you’re looking for large dog costumes, look no further! This Star Wars At-At will celebrate his size in style.

Mermaid Cat Costume, $48

And let’s not forget the kitties. If you have a feisty feline companion with a penchant for pastels, this sparkly mermaid pet costume is a must.

Thrills & Chills Spider Costume, $4.97

While cats and dogs can enjoy many costume options, our tiny floofs have a few super cute options like this spider costume for guinea pigs (or even tea cup pups) from PetSmart.

How To Save on Halloween Costumes, Candy, and Decorations

Halloween, a celebration of ghoulish fun, is a holiday anyone can enjoy. In preparation for Halloween festivities, shops and homes nationwide will soon transform into faux horror houses with cotton spider web adorned porches, bright orange jack-o’-lanterns, and doorways guarded by gargoyles. Whether you’re shopping for a simple costume to wear to the office party or supplies to create a masterfully frightful haunted house, read on for some money-saving tips for a Halloween celebration that’s so affordable it’s scary.

1. Buy in Bulk.

Halloween parties can be just as fun to host as to attend. If you’re throwing a monster ball or spooky bash in celebration of the ghoulish holiday, you’ll likely be in the market for large quantities of various party staples, from candy to décor.

You can score some major savings by buying in bulk at big-box stores like Walmart and Sam’s Club. If you don’t have a membership or simply prefer the convenience of having your items delivered to your door, you can also find some great deals on multi-packs at Amazon. By shopping through Ebates, you can also enjoy some awesome Cash Back and coupons as well.

2. Go thrifting.

While you probably don’t want to buy your candy corn or bite-sized Butterfingers second-hand, you can save quite a bundle shopping second-hand for other items. Many thrift stores have a number of Halloween specials for up to two months prior to the holiday, making it easy to find gently used decor and costumes for cheap.

This can be an especially valuable option for buying kids’ costumes, as children tend to outgrow their costumes or wear out their love of certain characters. Many thrift stores also offer discounts on your next purchase if you bring in a donation beforehand, providing an excellent excuse to do some house cleaning before the winter holidays.

3. Do it yourself.

Whether you’re a champion crafter or a first-timer, Halloween is the perfect time to concoct your own decor. A quick Google search or scroll through Pinterest will produce a slew of inspirational ideas for cool Halloween fixings, whether you’re looking for something fun and family-friendly or something a little spookier. You can find supplies, as well as ideas, from stores like JoAnn Fabrics and Michael’s, and enjoy Cash Back to boot!

4. Rent.

Your local community theater or holiday supply store likely offers rentals as well as for-sale items. If you’re looking to sport a historically accurate Marie Antoinette costume or want to display an ultra-realistic undead zombie on your lawn, this can be a good option to save some major cash.

5. Shop clearance for next year.

Just as there is a plethora of end-of-season or post-season clearance deals (think buying swimwear in September or a wool coat in March), equal opportunity for major savings lies in the days immediately following major holidays like Halloween and Christmas. So though it may seem counterintuitive to order costumes or decorations you likely won’t touch for another 11 months, it can save you some serious cash, and save you some time shopping for next year’s All Hallows’ Eve.

October 19, 2016

Shop, Save, Support: Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and many incredible brands are supporting the cause by offering specials on their fabulous products. Just by shopping these stores, a portion of your purchase will help sponsor important breast cancer research and support programs. Take a look at some of the great items that qualify for this month’s promotions, get Cash Back at Ebates, and support an awesome cause – all in a day’s work for a savvy shopper!

Tested Tough Pink Fleece by Columbia

Tested Tough Pink Fleece $29.99 | Columbia

Wrap yourself in this fuzzy Tested Tough Pink Fleece from Columbia to stay warm this fall and show your love for all the fighters and survivors. As an added perk, every purchase from Columbia’s I Wear Pink collection sponsors a donation to the National Breast Cancer Foundation to provide mammograms for those in need.

Pink Gear from Macy’s

Material Girl Active Pink Ribbon Graphic Hoodie, $26.99 | Macy’s

Wear pink this month to show your support with breast cancer awareness shirts, pink ribbon hoodies, breast cancer awareness socks and other accessories available online at Macy’s. The best part is that Macy’s will donate 10% of the sales from these special items, like the Material Girl Active Pink Ribbon Graphic Hoodie, to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

New Era NFL Breast Cancer Awareness Knit

New Era NFL Breast Cancer Awareness Knit, $23.99 | Champs

Purchasing this knit will have you rooting for a cause much larger than the game. The NFL regularly partners with the American Cancer Society to raise money and run awareness campaigns. This year’s campaign A Crucial Catch focuses on the importance of regular mammograms to maintain health and catch issues early on.

Knots for Hope Tie

Knots For Hope Tie, $22.50 | Belk

This cheerful ‘Knots For Hope’ Tie is a great way for men to show their support of the Susan G. Komen Foundation and breast cancer awareness. Inspired by the women that have helped to build the company, Belk is also an ongoing sponsor of breast cancer awareness and research.

Bright Pink Watch from Avon

Breast Cancer Strap Watch, $20 | Avon

Sport your support on your wrist with this pretty pink Breast Cancer Strap Watch by Avon. For every watch purchase, $4 will be donated to Avon’s own foundation to support its Breast Cancer Crusade across the US.

Alex and Ani Charm Bracelet

Spiral Charm Bangle, $38 | Alex and Ani

This stylish gold Spiral Charm Bangle is both a beautiful and meaningful piece of jewelry thanks to Alex and Ani’s pledge to donate 20% of its sale price to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

Great Skin, Great Cause Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion

Great Skin, Great Cause Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion, $38 | Nordstrom

Protect your skin and support breast cancer awareness and research with each purchase of Clinique’s special edition Great Skin, Great Cause Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion. Available at Nordstrom, each lotion comes with a free BCA key ring. Keep your eyes peeled for promo codes and feel good about your purchase knowing that Clinique will donate $10 from each sale of this lotion to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

Origins Intensive Overnight Mask

Intensive Overnight Mask, $26 | Origins

Origins donates $5.00 to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation from the purchase of each of its limited-edition products like this thirst-quenching Intensive Overnight Mask. Repair your skin’s moisture barrier and support important research with your beauty regimen!

Bobbi Brown Art Stick Duo

Bobbi Brown Art Stick Duo, $50 | Dillard’s

Show your support with the Bobbi Brown Art Stick Duo and wear these pretty pink shades that are perfect for any pout. For every sale of this duo, Bobbi Brown will donate $10 to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

October 18, 2016

Easy-to-Use Halloween Makeup Kits Under $15

No matter how many hours you spend on Pinterest browsing Halloween makeup looks or how many YouTube tutorials you watch, doing your own Halloween makeup can be, well, scary. It’s a lot of work requiring a lot of tools that you may not have, nor the budget to buy them. And booking a professional Halloween makeup session? That’s not exactly cost effective. So for all of you lacking time, copious extra cash and/or a steady hand, we present you these Halloween makeup kits that are affordable, easy to use and come with Cash Back at Ebates!

The Joker Halloween Makeup Kit, $9.95

Kits are especially smart if your look requires Halloween face makeup, like The Joker. Instead of buying a whole tub of white that you will likely not use all in one sitting, this kit provides just enough coverage and all the accouterments needed to complete your transformation.

Suicide Squad Harley Quinn Makeup Kit, $9.52

This look requires some serious Halloween eye makeup since chances are, you probably don’t have red and blue shades just lying around.

Poison Ivy Makeup Kit, $9.52

Harley and The Joker may be all the rage right now but for those who like to kick it old school, this Poison Ivy kit from Hot Topic includes some killer costume makeup.

e.l.f. Witch Kit, $12

e.l.f. has a great selection of simple face kits including Ice Queen, Mermaid, Cheetah and more to complete your fantasy face.

Lady Gaga Halloween Lightning Bolt Makeup, $3.96

Whether you want to evoke Lady Gaga or the late, great David Bowie, this kit from Tanga has everything you need for a glamtastic look.

Beautiful Bones Halloween Makeup Kit, $7.22

While searching Halloween makeup ideas, you may have fallen totally in love with Calavera, the beautiful sugar skulls depicted in Día de los Muertos customs and folklore. Unless this is part of your own culture, we recommend using this makeup if you are attending an actual Día de los Muertos celebration. Celebrate, don’t appropriate!

Neon Rainbow Cat Face Tattoo, $5

A full-face tattoo is perhaps the easiest way to apply your Halloween look. Just a few simple steps and you’re out the door!

Glow-In-The-Dark Makeup Kit, $9.50

Hitting up any haunted houses or black-light parties? Then a glow-in-the-dark look is a bold move few will forget.

Fluorescent Green Glow in The Dark Nail Polish, $3

Complete your costume with head-to-fingertip luminescence. This nail polish is speckled to create a fun paint splatter effect.

Black Glitter Witch Nails, $5

Or you can ditch the extra dry time and go for quick, press-on nails like these to create some witchy digits that will leave them bedazzled.

October 12, 2016

5 Spooktastic Haunted House Ideas

Decorating for Halloween doesn’t have to be expensive to be extraordinary. Classic creepiness can come for cheap. Find out how to make a haunted house for less and earn Cash Back at Ebates when you shop our top merchants. The key to turning your haunted house ideas into reality is to focus on ambiance. You don’t need expensive haunted house props when you have a clear idea of the kind of scene you want to create. To put some spook on your doorstep, take a look at five haunted house ideas inspired by some of our favorite horror films. Each movie matches to a store that offers incredible deals on the items you’ll need to recreate the look for less.

1. Beetlejuice (1988)

Proof that Halloween doesn’t have to be horrifying, this family friendly flick has Tim Burton’s classic creative touch. The plot centers around a house that transforms from a quaint country cottage to a modern art marvel and whose title character wears a trademark black-and-white stripe suit. To get the Beetlejuice look for your haunted house, decorate with stripes, spirals and throw in a few tentacles. Shop at joann.com and Michaels for fabric and paint to create stuffed fabric creatures and save with a promo code from Ebates.

2. Sinister (2012)

This film is absolutely not for kids or anyone who loves watching old home movies. The plot involves a bunch of old 8mm home movies that show an unfortunate family meeting its grisly end on the branches of creepy gnarled tree. This image is shown over and over again and it never stops being scary. A Sinister haunted house would feature flickering lights, white noise reels, hanging dolls, and bloody wallpaper. Pick up a roll of butcher paper from Office Depot and OfficeMax and hang long sheets splashed with red paint. Use a strobe light to set the mood and voila! You’ve officially created the spookiest haunted house in town.

3. Crimson Peak (2015)

Perhaps the most visually elaborate haunted house in movie history, the mansion of Crimson Peak is filled with beautiful things slowly going to rot. Crumbling walls, a leaky roof and a truly terrifying basement offset the home’s rich velvet upholstery, towering ceilings and huge staircases. To create the Crimson Peak, use very low lighting, let all the faucets drip and drape some cotton spider webs or thick fabrics over furniture. To complete the look, stock up on battery-powered flameless candles at Target.

4. The Others (2001)

The house in this film is enormous and claustrophobic at the same time. The residents of this huge mansion are two children who are allergic to light but certainly not dust. Every door in the house is locked, every window is covered by heavy drapes and the furniture is covered in white dust sheets. This makes for super easy haunted house ideas; all you need to do is drape all the furniture in white sheets and keep it dark. Don’t lock all the doors, though! When you shop at Kmart.com with a promo code from Ebates, you can find affordable bedding to cover everything and create an unforgettable haunted house.

5. House on Haunted Hill (1959)

This classic black and white film is full of great scary haunted house ideas that scream traditional Halloween. There are skeletons and cobwebs and black cats all around. The scary guys wiggle their fingers, the damsels are in distress and the bad guy has a dopey mustache. To get this classic haunted house look, embrace the obvious. Shop at Halloween Express to get everything you need from bat banners to skeletons in hats and things with eyes that glow. Happy Halloween!

October 11, 2016

The Most Relevant Pop Culture Halloween Costumes of 2016

Some love Halloween for its chills and thrills. Others love it because it’s the perfect time to tout your interests and earn some pop culture cred. Whether you are looking to wow your crew at the Halloween house party or surprise your kids with the coolest Halloween costumes on the block, check out our favorite pop culture Halloween costumes with Cash Back at Ebates. Don’t miss out on sales, coupons and promo codes from top Halloween costume stores. Get rock bottom prices on everything you need to make Halloween 2016 the best one yet.

In Memoriam

David Bowie Glam Rocker Adult Costume, $53.99 (Walmart) | Velvet Prince, $54.99 (Halloween Mart)

We lost quite a few music icons this year, but maybe none as devastating as Prince and David Bowie. Pay them tribute in style with these complete looks.

Suicide Squad

Harley Quinn Jacket & Shirt, $35.99 (Halloween Mart) | Suicide Squad Adult Joker Costume Kit, $31.99 (Costume SuperCenter)

Some call them #relationshipgoals. Others just call them good old psychotic fun. Score Joker and Harley Quinn costumes from Suicide Squad to step up your couple’s costume game.

Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Finn Deluxe, $49.99 (Halloween Mart) | Grand Heritage Rey Women’s Costume, $98.90 (Wholesale Halloween Costumes) | Bb-8 Women’s Costume, $29.90 (Wholesale Halloween Costumes)

How cruel was it that Star Wars Episode 7 came out in December last year? You’ve had to wait 10 whole months to dress up like Rey…or at least have a good excuse to do so.

Finding Dory

Disney’s Finding Dory Dory Adult Costume, $42.90 (Wholesale Halloween Costumes)

Chances are, your kids loved Finding Dory and the obsession is still going strong. This costume is perfect for those parents looking to be good sports for their family’s group costume.

The Huntsman

Ravenna Skull Dress Costume, $54.90 (Wholesale Halloween Costumes)

Some of us have serious dreams of being a princess while others would rather rule their kingdom with an iron (yet manicured) fist. If you’re the latter, try the evil queen from The Huntsman on for size.

Pokémon

Pikachu Dress Women’s Costume, $44.90 (Wholesale Halloween Costumes)

People are STILL playing PokémonGO so this sassy Pikachu is definitely trendy. Just make sure no one catches you.

Stranger Things

Stranger Things Eleven Dress, $79.00+ (Etsy)

DIY costumes are all fun and games until you realize you can’t sew. Luckily, the makers at Etsy have you covered. Create the Stranger Things costumes your friends will covet!

Stranger Things Barb Dress, $52.50 (Etsy)

In a world full of Nancys, be a Barb. With this plaid dress, all you need are thrift store glasses and a Trapper Keeper to become this beloved Bestie.

Ghostbuster Girl

Ghostbusters Girl Costume, $21.84 (Yoyo.com)

The all-female cast of Ghostbusters still continues to be a huge deal for little girls everywhere. Remind yours that she can do anything, including save the day from monsters.

Zootopia

Nick Wilde Classic Costume, $22.39 (Costume SuperCenter) | Judy Hopps Classic Costume, $23.19 (Costume SuperCenter)

If your kids think Gazelle is the greatest singer of our time, they may have watched Zootopia 10-too-many times. Just go with it and grab them a Nick or Judy costume. They’ll go savage for it.

September 23, 2016

9 Native-Owned Etsy Stores to Shop on Native American Day

Festival season is coming to a close and Halloween is right around the corner. What do these two things have in common? They both increase the likelihood that you will see a non-Native person donning a headdress and face paint in an egregious act of appropriation. Native American culture is something to celebrate. What better way to do that than supporting Native artists and makers? Native American Day is observed every fourth Friday of September, which makes today the perfect day to treat yourself to Native American jewelry, art, accessories and more at these nine Native-owned Etsy stores. Discover quality, handmade Native American goods all with Cash Back at Ebates.

Seeworks

A handmade guitar strap is the perfect gift for the musical genius in your life. The best part is they’re one of a kind, which always makes gifts extra special.

ThunderKin

Native American jewelry is knowN for it’s silver and turquoise but detailed beading like this is its real staple.

AuthenticNativeMade

These gorgeous baby moccasins are hand beaded and one of a kind. You can go with a traditional pair like the one above or pairs featuring your favorite superheros like Batman or Wonder Woman.

RavenSongStudio

Opal is also a traditional Native American material and this minimalist rings are as elegant as they are stunning.

cherokeewhisper

Give your home a Southwestern flair with this hand painted jug, a unique and authentic mantelpiece.

ATouchofNativeBeauty

This bracelet and ring set is simple while making a statement. Pair these pieces with your fall outfits for just a touch of color.

NativeHorizon

Fringe is in! This shoulder bag is of higher quality than anything similar you would find in department stores.

UnrestrainedArts

Add some color to your wall decor with this painted wood-slat installation.

Highway66Treasures

Jewelry is one way to make a statement but an edgy watch like this is quite another.

Which of these stores is now on your Etsy favorites list? Let us know with a comment below!

September 13, 2016

5 Warm and Affordable Destinations for Your Dream Holiday

The holidays can be a frantic time of year and can sometimes feel full of obligations. Fortunately, the holiday season is also a great time to find incredible savings on getaway travel. If you’ve ever daydreamed about skipping Thanksgiving dinner or playing hooky on Christmas Eve, there are countless budget travel destinations to consider. To cover the spread, we have selected five different types of holiday destinations that are sure to please any type of traveler. From beach bum to businessman, thrill-seeker to spa-seeker, our cheap holiday destinations are sure to give everyone an excellent reason to miss the office holiday party this year. Peruse through these affordable holiday destinations and you will find deep seasonal discounts on airfare, hotel accommodations and car rentals. Take a flight of fancy, cruise through your options and earn Cash Back at Ebates when you book holiday travel at our top stores.

For Sun and Sand: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Affordable beach destinations get even more affordable during the holidays when most people only travel domestically to be with family. Some of the world’s top cruises and resorts break out their best pricing for travel between Thanksgiving and New Year’s. Our top destination for sun soaking is Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic. The Dominican Republic boasts dozens of all-inclusive resorts that offer a first-rate vacation at rock bottom prices for travel around Christmastime. The average low temperature in December is a gorgeous 72 degrees with low rainfall and 4-star hotels rooms can be found for less than the cost of that drone on your nephew’s wish.

When you’re ready to book your holiday travel, check out the all-inclusive deals at Hotwire. You can save hundreds on four-star and five-star hotels and have your food, drinks and entertainment all rolled into one great budget travel deal.

For Quiet: The Seychelles Islands

Get away from group gatherings and find some peace and rest during the holidays at some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. If this sounds perfect, you should immediately search for travel options to the Seychelles. The Seychelles is a group of 115 islands, only 30 of which are populated. Although there is plenty of wildlife, it’s pretty easy to avoid crowds of people. With exceptional sailing, snorkeling, fishing and surfing, the island paradise of the Seychelles is a beautiful destination year-round. The great news is that prices usually drop November-January making it one of the most desirable and affordable destinations in the world.

Book your stay with Priceline and choose from affordable hotels, luxury apartments, resorts and spas in Victoria, La Reunion, Anse Boileau or Anse Volber Village in Seychelles. Take your holiday in paradise without spending a small fortune!

For Adventure: Venezuela

Adventure destinations are usually seasonally dependent and the most common holiday adventure packages involve ice and snow, or at least a heavy sweater. However, in Venezuela, the “Lost World” jungle boasts mild temperatures and breathtaking sights. Visit Auyan-tepui to see the world’s highest waterfall, explore the Tepui sandstone mountains or hike the maze-like black-rock trail up Mount Roaima. Most flights to Venezuela come in and out of the capital city of Caracas which has a variety of accommodation options from cheap hotels to approved home-stays and luxury resorts.

Also check out Priceline for great deals on vacation packages to Venezuela and the chance to save up to $500 when you book. Priceline’s packages offer three-star and four-star hotels paired with budget-friendly flights to guarantee you the best savings.

For Inspiration: Barcelona, Spain

All across the world, the holiday season is a time for spectacles. From festivals to parades, concerts to sporting events, Christmastime offers the best in music, food and entertainment. One of the world’s best destinations from late November to late December is Barcelona, Spain. During the holiday season, Barcelona is alive with the best traditional crafts, cooking, singing, dancing and all around celebrating. The weather is mild and the streets of Barcelona at Christmas are ablaze with incredible light displays. Get drawn into traditional celebrations like the chocolate days and the Feast of Los Santos Inocentes which is similar to April Fool’s Day.

The best accommodations in Barcelona are often private homes for rent and this can be an excellent way to explore local culture. However, if staying with strangers isn’t your thing, Expedia offers travel packages to Barcelona that include accommodations in the city’s top five-star hotels. By booking a flight and hotel through Expedia, you can save up to $570 and they guarantee that their price is the best price available so there’s no risk.

For The Best Holiday Shopping in the World: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Let’s face it, there is no way you’re going to travel anywhere in the months between November and January without someone expecting a gift when you get home. Like they say, ‘tis the season! If you want to get all of your holiday shopping done for cheap while having an exceptional holiday getaway, your ultimate destination is Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur is home to some of the largest shopping malls in the world and the Bukit Bintang retail area has bargains as far as the eye can see. The holiday months are the start of the peak season for Malaysian beaches on the west coast where Kuala Lumpur is located so you can do your shopping in paradise. You can expect blue skies, minimal rain and incredible savings – especially when you book your travel with a promo code from Ebates.

On top of great low prices on air travel and accommodations, Orbitz is also a prime resource for exclusive deals on car rentals. The more mobile you are, the better you can combine a beach vacation with bargain hunting because you can stay in a more secluded area without worrying about how to get into the center of town. With rentals starting at under $30 per day, Orbitz can make it possible for you to explore the beautiful country of Malaysia at your leisure.

Wrap Your Photos for Some Festive Flair.

Fill Your Favorite Fruit Bowl with Ornaments.

Sweeten Things Up with Holiday Treats.

Use Mini Ornaments to Make a Statement.

Float Ornaments for a Festive Ambience.

Design a Space-Saving Spruce.

Craft an Ornament Wreath.

Add Greenery to Your Space.

Spray Paint Twigs Silver & Gold.

Create a Makeshift Chandelier.

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