While travel budgets are hugely subjective, one thing all discerning travelers have in common is that we want to get the best experience possible for the money spent – a high value vacation or more bang for the buck, you might say. Whether you routinely country hop in business class or are a young family on your first vacation, you want to feel like you spent wisely or even got more than expected.

Well-located hotels, excellent service, and early check in/late check-out add intangible value to your vacation, while more concrete items like complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi and private transfers add real worth. It’s important to note that value and cost are two separate measures. A low price tag that doesn’t offer value-added amenities isn’t automatically better than a higher priced option that does include them.

To help you get the most value from your 2015 vacation, Travel Maestro asked some of Covington Travel’s most experienced Vacation Advisors which destinations, tour operators and travel suppliers offer high value vacations. Some are quite economical, others cost a bit more, but they all offer strong “return on life” ratios.

Warm Weather for Spring Break:

Cancun and Riviera Maya, Mexico is a budget-friendly destination for families looking for a tropical getaway. 6-Night charter packages from Richmond will run from March 15 – August 15, 2015 with round trip air and all-inclusive hotel from $779 per person. – Cindi Brewer

For someone who has done Mexico and the Caribbean and is looking for something a little different, Costa Rica is an economical eco and adventure destination. Explore Rainforest, view wildlife, climb a volcano, or surf and sun at the beach – Costa Rica has it all! – Tracy Carr

I suggest families consider Southern California instead of the Caribbean for Spring Break. Stay in San Diego or the Del Mar/ La Jolla beach area to avoid high-season prices in the Caribbean and no passports are needed! – Jean Riekers

Cruising:

Celebrity Cruises offers good value for the cost. The line is adult-oriented, has elegant décor, upscale dining and one staff for every two guests, yet their prices are comparable to the more mass market cruises. For example, a veranda cabin on the Equinox for a 7-night Greece and Turkey Mediterranean cruise in June 2015 starts at $3,560 for two including taxes (airfare, transfers and insurance additional). – Karen Kilyk

River Cruising is typically much more inclusive than traditional ocean cruising, with daily excursions, wine and alcohol, complimentary Wi-Fi and airport transfers all included in the cruise fare. It’s such a good value, I’ve put together a group for AMA Waterways Christmas on the Rhine in December 2015. – Judy Faust

North America:

I can recommend a number of family-friendly USA Escorted Tours: Wild West, Cowboys & Buffalos, Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta or Scenic National Parks Explorer to name just a few. They are a great value with discounts for early payment, kids, military and groups of as few as five people. – Valerie Ambrose

Canada has been a popular choice this year. Rates are favorable and Quebec offers a French experience without traveling so far. – Doug Floyd

Europe and Further:

Portugal is a wonderful destination and not on many Americans’ radar. Europeans have known about the value for years. I recently arranged a private tour for two people that would have easily been twice as much in other parts of Europe! – Doug Floyd

Prague and Budapest are always a great value. They offer Old World charm, beautiful architecture and a number of famous cultural attractions. – Doug Floyd

City packages in Europe can be a great value. Hop-on/Hop-off city tours are a good way to learn your way around and see the major sights. You can use one hotel as your base and take day tours to the surrounding areas or visit a couple cities and connect by train. – Sharon Soldan

India is a good value for Americans and there’s a stark contrast for service costs between India and Europe. For example, a full 10-hour day with a car and driver in Mumbai costs about $150 – $200, whereas the same in Europe could easily be $1,500 – $2,000. – Karen Kilyk

A walkabout Australia can be personalized to include just the right balance of culture, adventure, beach, rainforest and sophisticated city life – without breaking the bank. A custom-designed vacation including four nights each in Melbourne, Cairns and Sydney, plus tours and experiences in each and some meals starts at $2,150 per person (airfare additional). – Karen Kilyk

All prices quoted were accurate at time of publishing, but subject to change and availability. Please contact Covington Travel for current rates and availability.