Need to get away? Think of fall as the time to travel! It's when many popular destinations experience a break after the busy season. That means fewer crowds and loads of price cutting, freebies and special offers. 

Cynthia and Ian Narcisi are gearing up for a cross- country road trip.

"We're big nature buffs," Cynthia said.  "So we love to see the different national parks and whatever the state has to offer. And we like driving!"
 
Along the way, they're keeping their eyes peeled for a deal, especially in this economy.
 
One pit stop? Colorado. It's on www.smartertravel.com's list of top five fall bargain destinations. Travel editor Anne Banas says prices at ski resorts are heading downhill.
 
"Through October this year, places like Aspen are offering 50% off hotel rates. Plus, there's also an Aspen pass that can save you a lot of discounts on activities and food and beverage."
 
Cynthia and Ian found steals and deals by logging on to the Denver tourism board.
 
"Which had a lot of really good deals, like coupons for 15% off, you know, like local shops and museums and there were deals for restaurants," Ian said.
 
Fall is play time in Orlando. Disney offers discounted hotel and dining packages, and flights are a steal, said Anne Banas.
 
"A lot of times less than $200 round trip from many departure points across the country," she noted.
 
The top trips aren't solely stateside. Overseas in Ireland, Banas found week-long packages for less than $200 per person, per night.
 
Then, get another deal to see the sights. "For 35 Euro you can purchase what's called the Dublin pass, which gains you access to 30 different attractions in Ireland, including the Jameson Distillery and Guinness."
 
Rent a car for cheap and drive from coast to coast. Or, try your luck in Germany. Banas says many European carriers are offering round trip deals for less than $500 per person. Once you land, tour the country by train!
 
"Right now Rail Europe is offering a deal for $65 per person, per day and you can save even more if you bring a friend," said Banas.
 
Rounding out the deals list is sunny Curacao, a Caribbean island below the hurricane belt.
 
"To attract people in the off season is what's called the Curacao now promotion, which has rebates on airfare, discounts on hotel, car rental and even diving packages," Banas pointed out.
 
Cynthia and Ian will be resting easy…especially since they snagged their second night at a popular hotel for only $52.80!