Dude Ranches Offer Best Value for Travel Dollar in These Budget Stretched Times

With the shrinking dollar overseas, gasoline averaging $3.75 a gallon, and food costs spiraling upward as well, a 2008 vacation to any destination may seem like a "pipe dream." But don't rule out a summer getaway completely until you've considered a stay at an all inclusive Dude Ranch.

Cody, WY (PRWEB) May 21, 2008 -- with the shrinking dollar overseas, gasoline averaging $3.75 a gallon, and food costs spiraling upward as well, a 2008 vacation to any destination may seem like a "pipe dream." But don't rule out a summer getaway completely until you've considered a stay at a Dude Ranchers' Association member dude ranch. These quintessential Western getaways have always offered tremendous value for the money. Only authentic ranches of high quality are granted entrance to the DRA. In fact, only 50% of ranches that apply make it through the rigorous process. Consider why a Western dude ranch displaying a DRA logo is your best bet for an affordable summer vacation.

Your Dollar Buys More at Home. Today's exchange rate for one Euro is $1.54 -making international travel pricier than ever. Many travelers are looking for vacation destinations within the USA. For the same reason, so are many European and other foreign travelers. The dude ranch has always been popular overseas for its quintessential American flavor. So, even if you forgo a British Isles trip this season, your kids may very well get the opportunity to mingle with kids from another country at a Western DRA member dude ranch.

You Can Conserve Gas By Choosing a Ranch Close to Home. DRA Dude Ranches are spread out over 11 US States and two Canadian provinces. They are located as far east as Arkansas and west to the Pacific, as far north as Alberta and south to Arizona. The large geographic range of ranch locations can translate into a reasonable distance for many US residents to drive.

Almost everything is Included. DRA ranches are typically all-inclusive operating under the American plan. Most activities don't come with extra charges, including extra costs for dining out. Ranches are notorious for hearty wholesome meals - many catering to guests request and special dietary needs.

There's A DRA Ranch to Fit Each Lifestyle, Each Budget. While each DRA ranch guarantees an authentic Western experience, each offers different amenities and activities. A carefully selected ranch can satisfy the entertainment needs for each member of the family. Ranches come with hot tubs, rifle ranges, swimming pools, spas, fishing guides, tennis and basketball courts, whitewater rafting and more. While each DRA ranch is a quality destination, rates do vary. For the budget minded there are more rustic ranches or those offering stays of shorter duration and, don't forget it's possible to pay off-season, reduced rates for periods just before and following the "high season" of Mid June through mid August.

Today, there are more than 100 DRA member ranches in the Western US and Canada, and at least one of them has all the elements making it an ideal and affordable getaway for your 2008 summer vacation.

Colleen Hodson
The Dude Ranchers' Association
866-399-2339
http://www.duderanch.org

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