BARGAINS AHEAD (The Buffalo News) NEW YORK –The value of the U. S. dollar is surging, gas prices are at their lowest levels in four years, and hotel rates are softening. If you can afford a vacation, 2009 will be “the year of travel deals,” predicts Genevieve Shaw Brown, senior editor of Travelocity. “As long as the economic slowdown continues, deals will abound for people who do have discretionary income to travel.”

Travel Bargains to be Found in Economic Tough Times (FOX 31 Denver) DENVER - 2008 has been a rough year for the economy. But if you have a little extra money, there are also some deals to be had. That includes for travel.

Year Of The Travel Deal: 2009 (The Tampa Tribune) If you can afford a vacation, 2009 will be the year to check out all the places on your list.