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February 25, 2017

Iconic Movie Destinations to Travel To

Movie lovers: Pack your bags and head out to visit the location of your favorite films. Whether it’s Hogwarts’s Great Hall or Amity Island’s shallow, shark-infested waters, you can book a few nights at a familiar destination and feel like you’re part of the action. Embrace the cheesy nature of your trip and venture out to explore the surrounding areas. It will be an epic vacation worth the effort. Plus, you’ll get serious Cash Back when you book at Ebates. If that’s not Oscar-worthy, I don’t know what is.

Hobbiton

Alexander Farm was the inspiration for Peter Jackson’s interpretation of J. R. R. Tolkien’s “The Shire,” which is why he chose the rolling hills of this sheep farm in Waikato, New Zealand as the location for “Lord of the Rings.” Epically Middle Earth, there are few signs of modern life on the farm and plenty of kitschy Hobbit experiences to be enjoyed. For LOTR buffs, this is a must-visit. Take a full day tour of the movie set through Expedia and be sure to have a drink at the festive Green Dragon Inn.

Hogwarts

Christ Church College in Oxford, UK was not only the inspiration for the Harry Potter films, but it did serve as a primary movie set in many of them. Visit and you’ll get to glimpse the Great Hall, the library and the Hogwarts infirmary. For a cozy stay, book a room at nearby Macdonald Randolph Hotel in Oxford, where you can have tea just before heading out to indulge your inner witch or wizard.

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A Christmas Story House

Completely renovated to look just like the actual film—down to the leg lamp—the house from legendary holiday movie “A Christmas Story” is worth a stop in Cleveland for any cross-country traveler. Across the street is the museum gift shop, where you can score your own decoder ring.

The Beach

On Thailand’s Koh Phi Phi Leh, you may not experience all of the same thrills of “The Beach,” starring Leonardo DiCaprio. You can, however, catch some hidden beaches and lush backdrops from the film. Here, the water’s turquoise hues and towering rock islands will have you wanting to book a room for the week. The Phi Phi Island Cabana Hotel, available through Agoda, is a good choice for a luxurious stay.

Avatar Rainforest

Visit the Hamakua Coast on the Big Island in Hawaii to imagine yourself in the world of “Avatar.” Though David Cameron’s vivid imagination inspired a majority of the film’s CGI moments, the lush rainforest and pristine waterfalls that enliven the backdrop are not imagined. Kalopa State Recreation Area and Akaka State Falls Park are good places to start your adventures. Hamakua Ranch B&B is a great nearby spot to call home while jaunting in and out of the trails you know and love from the movie. Book through booking.com for a great deal.

Amity Island

Off the coast of Massachusetts, you’ll find the quaint island of Martha’s Vineyard, otherwise known as “Amity Island” from Steven Spielberg’s 1975 film, “Jaws.” The town of Edgartown was taken over by the cast and crew for its quaint fishing-town feel and shallow surrounding waters—the perfect backdrop of a town terrorized by a series of terrifying shark attacks. Visit the Vineyard, but maybe stay out of the water unless you have a big enough boat. The Harbor View Hotel at beautiful Lighthouse Beach is a great choice for coastal New England charm (and occasional shark viewing).

February 13, 2017

How to Book a Luxury Vacation for Less

Savvy travelers know the best vacation packages can be found online for less. Whether you’re booking your honeymoon, a long weekend getaway or a group trip, you can save big on luxury travel if you know where to look. When you search through Ebates, you’ll get even bigger savings with a special promo code and Cash Back.

Hilton Hotels and Resorts

Hilton Hotels offers luxurious rooms and accommodations for all your vacation, business and bridal needs.

Savings Tips:
• Shop the Offers section to earn bonus points and get 20 percent off an early booking. If you’re an AAA or AARP member, you can get 5 percent off.
• Take advantage of Hilton’s free Hilton HHonors membership and earn loyalty points and perks such as late checkout and free breakfast.

Orbitz

From discount flights and hotels to car rentals and full vacation packages, Orbitz knows how to travel on a budget.

Savings Tips:
• Head to the Deals section for money-saving promo codes and unbeatable prices on hotels.
• Join Orbitz Rewards to earn up to 5 percent on your hotel stay and 1 percent on flights.
• Check out the Orbitz travel guide for the insider scoop on the best times to find travel packages to some of the world’s best tropical resorts.

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Hotwire

Hotwire offers deals on hotels, car rentals and flights all around the world.

Savings Tips:
• Save a bundle when you book at the last minute. Check out Hotwire’s Cheap Travel and Last Minute Deals sections to save on your spontaneous getaway.
• Find even more deals when you download Hotwire’s mobile app. It’s the easiest way to book and save.
• Use the TripStarter feature to choose your destination and departure airports and find out when flights and hotel rates historically have been the cheapest.

Known for its travel bargains, Expedia offers a Best Price Guarantee so you’ll get the lowest price possible on your trip.

Savings Tips:
• Use Expedia’s free app to get a special promo code for $25 off your first hotel booking.
• Unlock special member pricing and save an extra 10 percent or more when you book with select hotels.

Atlantis

Atlantis vacation packages include meals, entertainment, drinks, local transportation and entrance to water parks at the Bahamian resort.

Savings Tips:
• Get the lowest rates and exclusive benefits when you book specialty offers. Select your location to see the offers for that hotel.

Booking.com

Booking.com is the place to go when you want to book a smaller, independent hotel with a more personal feel.

Savings Tips:
• Subscribe to the Booking.com email list and gain access to exclusive secret deals of up to 50 percent off!

Priceline

Priceline allows you to be an expert auction bidder for the ultimate savings on your luxury vacation.

Savings Tips:
• The trick is to search Priceline’s Express Deals for the lowest price being offered, subtract 5 percent to 20 percent and then use that number to make a Name Your Own Price bid.

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Travelocity

From Europe to Hawaii, Travelocity offers the best deals in travel all over the world.

Savings Tips:
• The exclusive Bargain Hunter ticket feature allows you to see the final cost of your booking without having to guess how any associated fees might add up.
• Check Travelocity’s promotions to see how you can save more with current coupons and an exclusive promo code.

BookIt

BookIt offers vacation packages, flights and hotels to popular destinations worldwide.

Savings Tips:
• Sign up for the BookIt newsletter and get a $50 credit instantly.
• Become a member at BookIt and gain access to the Rest Assured special feature, which guarantees your hotel rate is the lowest possible.

CheapTickets

There’s no beating around the bush here: CheapTickets offers discounted vacation packages and accommodations so you can travel on the cheap.

Savings Tips:
• Download the CheapTickets app for exclusive savings and deals.

October 6, 2016

Complete List of Columbus Day Sales

Columbus sailed the ocean blue looking for more than the New World – he was looking to make his sponsor, Spain, a whole lot of money. This Columbus Day, commemorate the discovery of the Americas authentically by saving yourself plenty of cash.

This Columbus Day weekend will have some killer sales. Here is a complete list of the best among the batch.

1. Brookstone

Save on electronics because Brookstone’s Columbus Day sale is offering $30 off $99 orders with promo code 1492. Check out even more coupons and promo codes for endless savings.

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2. Kohl’s

Get ready for Halloween with Kohl’s sale, offering an extra 20% off any order if you use the promo code GET20.

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3. Macy’s

No Columbus Day sale is complete without Macy’s throwing their hat into the ring, and they hit all of fall’s savings with an extra 20% off their normal holiday price cuts with the code FUN.

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4. Sears

Update all your appliances and grab a little something special for yourself with Sears’ 10% off sale, including an extra $5 kicked off every $50 you spend with the code SEARS5OFF50. To make the savings even better, you can pair those deals with even more coupons for the potential to not only save money, but get Cash Back as well.

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5. Dell

Starting the new year with those business upgrades you need or getting that perfect electronic gift is pricey, but you can get in early and save more with Dell’s up to 38% off deal on select PCs and free shipping.

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6. Office Depot

Office supplies aren’t always cheap, and you can get your kids’ school supplies early this Columbus Day with Office Depot’s 20% off deal if you use the code 20OFFEBATES41.

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7. Finish Line

Finish Line is offering savings with up to 50% off new markdowns and $10 off $100 or more with coupon code AUTUMN10.

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8. Expedia

Looking to book that New Year’s or Christmas vacation? Get out of town without breaking the bank thanks to Expedia’s 50% off on flights and hotels.

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9. Hertz

You’ll need a car for your gallivanting abroad, so take advantage of 45% off rentals and a free extra day, plus up to $30 back on weekly rentals with the code 111473.

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10. Hotwire

Grab your vacation packages and flight with as much as $570 kicked off the deal with Hotwire.

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11. Travelocity

With an additional 13% off $300 at participating hotels with the code EbatesThirteen, you can do some exploring of your own this Columbus Day.

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12. JCPenney

You can be a lot better dressed than the explorer, and for a lot less, with JCPenney’s pre-holiday sale of 25% off with promo code BUYNOW42. Plus, if your grand total is more than $25, you can add in the code SHOPSALE for an extra $10 off.

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13. Nordstrom

You can afford to splurge a little with Nordstrom’s pre-Columbus Day sale of as much as 60% off all things fashion with shoes, outfits, and accessories. Plus they offer free shipping on everything this holiday!

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14. Carter’s

Get the kids a little something fun by stopping by for 20% off any $50 order at Carter’s with promo code CAROCT20.

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15. Ace Hardware

Maybe your weekend was a little too fun – if you need supplies for repairs, then it’s the perfect time with $15 off $100 orders with the code EBATESFALL15.

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16. Barnes & Noble

Those books you’ve been craving all summer? You can add them to your collection with 20% off any single item on top of Barnes & Noble’s normal pre-Columbus Day sale as long as you use the code BNFRIEND.

Get Deal >

17. Bloomingdale’s

If you’ve been missing that pair of fall booties, cozy sweater, or another fall fashion must-have, head to Bloomingdale’s for 25% off with promo code FRIENDS, plus up to 75% off sale items.

Get Deal >

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.

June 9, 2016

The Ultimate Disneyland Trip Planning Guide

Mickey, Minnie and Goofy, oh my! A trip to The Happiest Place on Earth can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience with the right tips and tricks. It’s time to dive into Disneyland planning with Cash Back at Ebates on your next adventure! Here are our favorite hacks for making the most out of this magical family vacation. Plus, find out how you can win a Disneyland Anaheim vacation prize package, including a four-night stay for four at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel or Disneyland Hotel!

Discount Disneyland Packages

Save some cash on your family vacation with Cash Back at Ebates on discount Disneyland packages. Visit Expedia for travel deals and score extra savings with a travel promo code. Plus, discover the best prices on hotels near Disneyland at Priceline. Be sure to explore deals at the one and only Disneyland Hotel located just a short stroll away from the park and delight in all things Disney during your stay.

Avoid the Crowds

Your summer vacation can be a convenient time for a Disneyland adventure, but it can also mean long lines and hot weather. The park is busiest when school is out of season, so try booking during less-crowded times like January or February. It’ll be the perfect time to explore everything the park has to offer, minus the long lines that summertime and holidays can bring. Come early to try to get a place in the front of the lines!

Parking Perks

Disneyland parking options are plentiful. With short-term parking options near Downtown Disney and two all-day parking lots, you’ll find an easy option for you and your family. Both of the all-day lots offer tram or bus transportation to the main gate. At the end of the night, the lines to return to parking lots can be long, so you may prefer to walk back to your car to save some time.

Get Insider Access With the Disneyland App

Download the Disneyland mobile app to make the most of your Magic Kingdom vacation. You can easily check wait times for popular Disneyland rides, buy Disneyland passes, check Fastpass return times, browse restaurant menus, see Disneyland park hours and so much more at a glance. As a bonus, the app works like a GPS for all your favorite characters! You’ll know when and where they will appear in the park so you can be first in line for an autograph.

Skip the Wait With a Disneyland FASTPASS

A Disneyland FASTPASS is the perfect way to enjoy many of your Disneyland rides while skipping the line. Simply look for the FASTPASS sign near the entrance of an attraction and check the return time displayed. If the time works with your schedule, just insert your valid Disneyland tickets into the machine to generate your FASTPASS. Come back to the attraction at the time noted on your pass and enjoy the ride with minimal wait time! Check out a Disneyland map to mark all the rides you want to hit, then see if they have a FASTPASS option to make the most of your park time.

Go Hands-Free

Skip perusing the park with bags of souvenirs and supplies! Instead, check out Disneyland’s locker options for a simple and affordable way to store your stuff. It’s a great way to manage all your must-haves without being weighed down throughout the day. If you can’t bear to part with your things, at least make sure you have a comfortable backpack, like this Swiss Gear IBEX Backpack.

Secret Eats

Hiding in New Orleans Square (and probably not on your Disneyland map) you’ll find a simple “33” address plate that marks a high-end restaurant featuring incredible entrees and an all-you-can-eat dessert bar. How do you get a seat at this exclusive hidden eatery? Drop $25,000 for an initiation fee, plus a $10,000 annual membership fee – or, know a member willing to personally book you as a special guest.

For somewhat more accessible eating options while still enjoying an unforgettable ambiance, check out the Blue Bayou Restaurant inside the popular Pirates of the Caribbean ride. Reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance.

BYO Food and Drinks

Pack your own food and beverages in an insulated picnic basket from Bed Bath and Beyond to save big on family mealtime. Currently, you can enjoy your own food and drinks in an ideal setting at a complimentary picnic area located just outside the Main Entrance to Disneyland Park. With the exception of food items for guests with specific dietary needs, you can’t bring your outside treats into the park. However, a family picnic can be a fun, fast and cost-effective alternative to park eatery options.

Make Your Day Extra Special

If you’re visiting the park on your birthday or engagement, or are celebrating another special occasion, swing by Main Street City Hall for a free pin. It’ll make your day even more memorable!

Does all this Disney talk have you in the mood for a visit? Enter our Disneyland Anaheim Vacation Giveaway now for your chance to win the Happiest Vacation on Earth. Refer your friends to Ebates for your chance to win a total prize package worth up to $12,750! Click the image below for more details. Good luck!

June 1, 2016

#ICYMI: Our Top May Blog Posts

With spring in full swing and temperatures rising, we used May to focus on summer essentials from stylish espadrilles to must-have drugstore makeup. Tips on how to save at your favorite stores like Walmart and Expedia also showed you how to get a bigger bang for your buck while racking up Cash Back at Ebates. But these four blog posts really take the cake on featuring products that ranged from practical to downright magical. Take a look at these top blog posts from May to make sure you didn’t miss out on your next favorite wishlist item, shopping tip or time-saving checklist to make this the best spring and summer yet.

Floral Accessories to Brighten Your Look

Top off your spring OOTDs with festively floral accessories from bracelets to bags and everything in between. Read more >

The Ultimate Summer Camp Packing Checklist

Before the big send-off to summer camp, make sure you have everything your kids need for safe fun and adventure in the great outdoors. Read more >

11 Remakes of 90s Toys That Prove Your Childhood was Magic

Take a trip back in time with these amazing remakes of your favorite 90s toys. Grab one for your kids (or yourself) with Cash Back. Read more >

9 Cash Back Retailers That Price Match

Find the best price every time you shop at these retailers that price match and also offer Cash Back at Ebates. Read more >

Be sure to stay tuned for more to come in May. We’re always discovering new trends, adding new stores and coupons, and rounding up more ways to get paid to shop for the things you love. Whether you’re into fashion, tech, home and garden, travel or sports, we have the inside scoop on the best products and deals online and in-store. If you’re not an Ebates member, join today to free for access to thousands of coupons and promo codes in addition to Cash Back. Then download the Ebates App and add the Cash Back Button to your browser so you never miss out on Cash Back again. Ebates is where it pays to shop!

May 12, 2016

Where to Find the Best Summer Travel Deals

Thanks to the internet, the search for airline tickets, vacation packages, cruise deals and hotel rooms has never been easier. There is no shortage of websites out there to help you find and book the summer travel experience of your dreams. But there are also hundreds of sites out there that only look like a bargain hunter’s dream but could attach added fees, service charges or other strings to your ticket price. In this handy guide, we will introduce you to some of the top names in online budget travel booking and give you tips on how to use their sites to save the most when you book your summer holidays vacation.

Hotels.com

Hotels.com offers travel deals for more than 240,000 quality hotels, B&Bs and serviced apartments around the world. Hotels.com is committed to full price transparency so the price you see at the start of the booking will always be the same price you pay at the end. They will even show you comprehensive fee information that gives details of which hotels might have extra charges for things like breakfast, parking or internet access.

Savings Tips:
• Book one of their Deals of the Day to save up to 50% on your summer vacation, all while earning Cash Back at Ebates.
• Ready for some Memorial Day travel fun? Get up to 40% off your summer holidays booking and vacation in places like California, Hawaii or Washington for less during their Memorial Day Sale.
• Become a Welcome Rewards member and earn points for your stay which can be redeemed for a free night!

Orbitz

With Orbitz, you can book your summer vacation flight, car rental or cruise with the utmost confidence thanks to their Best Price Guarantee. If you find the same booking at a cheaper rate within 24 hours, Orbitz will refund you the difference. When you book your travel with a vacation promo code at Orbitz, you’ll get extra savings and earn Cash Back at Ebates.

Savings Tips:
• Save an extra 10% when you sign up for Insider Prices. You’ll gain access to exclusive discounts available to members only so you can travel this summer with more money in your pocket.
• Join Orbitz Rewards to earn rewards for your summer vacation travels and redeem your Orbucks on select hotels worldwide. Earn even more with the Orbitz Rewards credit card and Orbitz Rewards Dining program.

Priceline

Priceline gives you access to over 70,000 hotels in more than 71,000 destinations worldwide and connectivity with all major airlines and car rental brands. With over 38 million verified guest reviews and the highest volume of hotel room nights booked per day, Priceline is a customer-approved site you can trust.

Savings Tips:
• Search through the Express Deals for savings of up to 60% on select hotels and accommodations this summer.
• When you use Priceline to bid your own price for vacation deals, the number one strategy to know is the “free rebid”. To get around the Priceline policy of not allowing you to raise your bid within 24 hours, use their map to find a nearby zone that doesn’t have any hotels at the same star level as the one you bid on. Add that zone to your bid and you can rebid without the waiting period and without any added risk.

Expedia

When it comes to making online booking easy, Expedia.com takes the cake. A flight recommendation tool, search saver and itinerary sharing options are just a few of the unique features of their website, which is built specifically to help Expedia customers make smart, informed travel decisions.

Savings Tips:
• Gain exclusive access to summer travel savings with your mobile device. You’ll see travel deals for up to 40% off, but only with the Expedia App.
• Get an extra 10% off at select hotels when you unlock Member Pricing. It’s free to sign up, all you have to do is sign in for amazing summer savings!

May 7, 2016

How to Pick the Best Graduation Gifts Ever

If you can already hear “Pomp and Circumstance” playing somewhere off in the distance, you know that graduation season is here. Graduation is a major life milestone and a well thought-out present is a great way to help the graduate celebrate this important occasion. Worried about finding the perfect graduation gift for someone you care about before they get to throw their cap in the air? We’ve assembled this handy list of some awesome graduation gift ideas for anyone walking across that stage to get their diploma. With that graduation ceremony right around the corner, start shopping online today and don’t forget to activate Cash Back at Ebates to save even more on great graduation gifts.

Pick Out Something Personalized

If a graduate has invited you to help celebrate their big day, you are probably someone special they want to include in making this important memory. So why not pick out a graduation gift that helps capture the moment? Personalized items like monogrammed journals, photo books and other keepsakes are some of the best graduation gifts because they help your graduate keep celebrating this important accomplishment long after graduation day is over. Looking for gorgeous graduation gifts for her? Check out the personalized jewelry from Things Remembered. Want to build a custom photo book filled with memories? Check out awesome personalized photo projects and keep an eye out for a photo book promo code online at Shutterfly. It’s easy to fill up a photo book with pictures of the graduate from all the moments that lead up to their big day. Surprise your grad with a customized gift that will let them know how much this day means to you, too!

Get a Gift for Their Next Adventure

If your lucky graduate is heading off to college or life in a new city after graduation day, get them a gift that will improve the next phase of their life. A new bicycle is a great gift for a grad heading off to college or a new city and can help them get out and get around. Check out city-friendly bikes like the one above at PUBLIC and get Cash Back at Ebates with your graduation gift purchase. Sign up for emails from Public now and stay tuned for an awesome money-saving bicycle promo code.

Looking for something smaller? Give your graduate’s cell phone photography habit a boost and get them a new camera to help capture all their favorite moments, whatever the future may bring. Stores like Best Buy have a terrific assortment of cameras, no matter the lifestyle of your graduate. Cameras like a high-powered DSLR or even an awesome HD Action camera like a GoPro will help your grad hang on to new memories for years to come.

Help the Graduate Dress for Success With a New Outfit

Moving up from one school to the next level of education or off into the work force can leave a lot of graduates in desperate need of a wardrobe update. Whether they’re headed out for interviews or starting their first summer internship, any graduate will welcome some new threads. Help your graduate dress to impress with a new suit for interviews or other work appropriate clothes. Find a great deal on stylish, classic suiting for both men and women online at stores like J.Crew or J.Crew Factory. With tons of sizes and cuts plus the occasional suiting promo code, you can easily pick out a graduation gift outfit that’s guaranteed to be a big hit. Activate Cash Back at Ebates to help your graduation gift budget go even further and pair the suit with a chic tie or other accessories.

Sponsor a Getaway

After several years of hard work, far off trips make incredible college graduation gifts or even high school graduation gifts that the recipient will never forget. Many grads will have some time off, making a post-graduation trip a perfect way to get out and see the world before the next chapter of life begins. While this may seem like a big present, you can always work together with members of the grad’s family or group of friends to chip in and send your grad off on the trip of a lifetime. Check out the deals and vacation packages for destinations around the world at travel sites like Orbitz or Expedia and get Cash Back from Ebates when you book their graduation gift travel package. Pick out a great suitcase to go with the trip package like this one from Overstock.com and send them off in style!

Now that you have some fantastic graduation gift ideas, go pick out your gift and get ready to celebrate your graduate’s incredible achievement!

March 8, 2016

The Best Solo Travel Destinations in the World

Wendell Berry famously said “Nobody can discover the world for somebody else. Only when we discover it for ourselves does it become common ground and a common bond and we cease to be alone.” The best way to truly discover the world for yourself is to travel on your own.

Solo travel has many benefits beyond getting all the “me time” you need. You can save money, effort and time, plus you can free yourself up to say “yes!” to any experience that comes your way, without having to double check with your companion’s comfort zone. Having said that, solo travel does come with some challenges. Staying within budget is a common challenge, but with Ebates you can book your arrangements and earn Cash Back so your budget on the road can have a bit more flexibility. Another challenge when abroad is staying in touch. As you follow your wanderlust to faraway lands, consider keeping a blog of your adventures so your friends and family will know what you’re up to. It’s a fun way to look back at your travels later and keep in touch in the moment.

Of the thousands of international destinations that are single-traveler friendly, we have narrowed this list down to a select few and made sure to find options for all types of travelers. In making our selections, we considered three main elements: safety, simplicity and affordability. Whether you’re an experienced traveler or new to the game, here are our selections for the best places to travel alone.

For the Adventure Lover: New Zealand

New Zealand is famous for its geographic diversity. In this tiny country you can climb a glacier, swim with seals and hike through tropical jungles. This incredibly hospitable country is made up of two main islands, the North and South. Each region of the islands has its own character, and because they’re so compact, you can easily visit several in one trip.

For the adrenaline junkie, check out great deals at BookIt.com for flights into Queenstown on the South Island where you can find easy access to jet boat rides, skiing, river rafting, sea kayaking, hiking, biking and the original bungee jump experience. When you need to relax after so much excitement, head to the wine country of nearby Lake Wanaka for vineyard tours and some of the best dining on the Island.

For a more relaxed experience, find fantastic airfare and hotel deals with Travelocity and fly into Auckland on the North Island, the country’s largest city. It’s easy to find day trips to wildlife sanctuaries, natural hot spring spas and a variety of eco-adventures. Plus you’ll have more spending money when you travel since you’ll earn Cash Back at Ebates. You’ll find magnificent beaches, sunset kayaking, yachting, world-class shopping and dining. For women traveling alone who are not interested in dining solo, try area street vendors or the restaurant at your hotel for a taste of the local cuisine and a relaxing time to yourself.

For the Culturally Curious: Vietnam

Vietnam is one of the friendliest destinations to solo travel, particularly for women. This welcoming country is famous for its long coastline which is not only beautiful, but also provides some of the best seafood in the world. Vietnam is the place to go if you want to be wowed by incredible architecture, breathtaking views and a rich cultural history. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, you can use Ebates to find an affordable flight at Expedia to the capital city of Hanoi in the north. You can strike out from there for easy day trips or to more secluded destinations along the coast.

If you’re an experienced traveler and want to take sightseeing into your own hands, head from Hanoi to Sapa which is a popular tourism destination for adventuresome travelers from around the world. There you can book a guided motorbike or 3-day homestay tour which will introduce you to local hosts who make special provisions for solo female travelers. Check out Orbitz for incredible deals on reputable homestay tours and earn Cash Back at Ebates when you book.

If you want a more luxurious experience, find incredible deals at Booking.com on a Paradise Luxury Cruise experience in the Ha Long Bay where you can relax on a luxury version of the traditional Vietnamese junk boat that features onboard spa, fishing and dining opportunities. The boat’s route will bring you to some of the best places to visit for scenery, custom-made clothing, historical sites and more.

For the Social Butterfly: Ireland

If you want to travel alone, but not be alone, Ireland is the ultimate destination. Eating, drinking and being merry is just the beginning of this remarkable country where it’s nearly impossible to not make friends around every corner. Check out CheapTickets for great deals on flights and vacation packages to Dublin, the beating heart of Ireland, and from there it’s easy to travel anywhere in this small island nation. Search for a promo code at Ebates for even bigger savings on top of your Cash Back.

Ireland is a mostly rural country with metropolitan pockets and it’s easy to get away into the wilderness for a day trip or multi-day adventures in the mountains, the ocean or on horseback through the beautiful countryside. You can find mountain biking tours through Galway, riding and hiking tours through Connemara and exceptional kayaking and surfing in Kerry, all of which are accessible from Dublin. But you don’t have to leave Dublin for adventure as it’s known as one of the best cities for shopping, dining, nightlife and, of course, the best beer in the world!

Which of these destinations is now on your solo-traveling bucket list? Let us know with a comment below!

March 5, 2016

Top 10 Luxury Hotels in the US

U.S. News & World Report has released its annual Best Hotels in the USA rankings, putting all the information you need to plan your next fantastic getaway in one place. The U.S. News & World Report ranking methodology is the most comprehensive in the business. It ranks only the best of the best in luxury hotels, and bases its determinations on three important elements: hotel class ratings, guest ratings and industry awards and recognition. The U.S. News hotel awards are given out based not only on the highest industry accolades, but also on direct feedback from real people — so you can be confident the top 10 are the peak in both luxury and customer experience.

This list is not only a great resource for finding the luxury hotel of your dreams, but also for booking luxury travel on a budget. With Ebates, you can find special offers and a promo code for bigger savings, and get Cash Back on your booking. Luxury travel is within your reach at the best hotels in America!

1. The Langham, Chicago

Since opening in 2013, the Langham Chicago has rocketed to the top of many industry lists, earning five diamonds from AAA and five stars from Forbes Travel. This towering hotel on the banks of the Chicago River wows guests with its exceptional dining, accommodating staff and convenient location. Find your room today through Booking.com.

2. Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, Hawaii

The beauty, culture and cuisine of Hawaii are perfectly showcased at the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, which is the Big Island’s only AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Travel Five-Star hotel. The exclusive Oceanfront Concierge Service and organic, farm-to-table restaurant keep guests coming back. Book today through Expedia!

3. The Jefferson, Washington, D.C.

The Jefferson, a member of the Preferred Hotels and Resorts portfolio, also appears on best-of lists from Conde Nast Traveler, Frommer’s City Guide and Travel + Leisure. Located just blocks from the White House and historic D.C. landmarks, the Jefferson is a small hotel with just 95 rooms. Standout features include award-winning dining at the three in-house venues, elegant décor and a rich sense of history. Find a great rate at Hotels.com.

4. Montage Kapalua Bay, Maui, Hawaii

The residences at Montage Kapalua Bay include all the amenities of a family beach house along with the sophistication of a modern luxury hotel. But that’s only part of the reason it was rated the best hotel in Hawaii by Travel + Leisure readers and is among U.S. News & World Report’s top five hotels in the United States. Sunset views are available from nearly every residence, and you can partake in adventures such as helicopter rides and luxuries such as a seaweed cocoon at the world-class on-site spa. Book through Expedia!

5. The Lodge at Sea Island, St. Simons Island, Georgia

Set in the resort town of Sea Island, Georgia, the Lodge has received a Conde Nast Traveler Gold award and a Travel + Leisure World’s Best award. The resort complex features three golf courses, five miles of private beach, a yacht club and more. Guests love the family-friendly atmosphere, spacious rooms and excellent hospitality. Find rooms through Booking.com.

6. Acqualina Resort & Spa on the Beach, Sunny Isles Beach, Florida

Welcoming, personalized service defines the experience at this hotel, located about 11 miles north of Miami Beach. With ocean and bay views, four pools and 98 spacious and modern rooms, Acqualina is a distinct hotel in a popular travel destination. Travelers can’t get enough of this hotel, which explains why it was also included on the Conde Nast Readers’ Choice List and TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards in 2016. Get a great deal on a room through Expedia.

7. The Hay-Adams, Washington, D.C.

Take in views of the National Mall and the White House from this historic hotel, named for two of its former residents, journalist Henry Adams and Secretary of State John Hay. The Hay-Adams is known for its early American decor, dark wood accents, elegant guestrooms and a general air that’s steeped in history. Book through Hotels.com for a great deal.

8. Montage Deer Valley, Park City, Utah

As the only ski resort on the list, Montage Deer Valley holds its own in snowy Park City, where visitors can enjoy its ski-in, ski-out location and countless winter activities. The cozy rooms, featuring plenty of space and warming fireplaces, make this the perfect escape for winter lovers. But with kayaking adventures, access to hundreds of miles of hiking and a large outdoor pool, Montage Deer Valley is far from a seasonal stay.

9. Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa, Rancho Santa Fe, California

Situated about 30 minutes north of San Diego, Rancho Valencia has the element of seclusion that impresses and relaxes guests at the same time. The resort made it onto the 2016 Conde Nast Readers’ Choice List and Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards for good reason. Gorgeously appointed guest rooms, public spaces and a tequila bar give off a Mexican-hacienda vibe that charms guests throughout their stay. For a deal, try booking through Travelocity.

10. Primland, Meadows of Dan, Virginia

Primland is set on 12,000 rolling acres amid the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. And its accommodations are just as vast, with a choice among cottages, houses or rooms. But it’s days spent exploring the resort’s outdoor wonderland and evenings stargazing at the hotel’s observatory that are most appealing to all those ready to lose themselves in the meadows of southern Virginia.