Flying may be cheaper in some cases, but of course there are those pesky fees to deal with …

Overall, when the economy is tight, your family trip to Florida drops a few notches on the budget list, am I right? Fortunately, there’s an up side to the situation.

Folks working in the hotel and tourism industry recognize the need for traveler incentives, and a smart shopper can snag all kinds of sweet deals these days.

The gas rebate is my favorite new example. I first mentioned this in my blog about Panama City Beach travel incentives, and recently discovered Steinhatchee Landing Resort in northwest Florida has rolled out a similar deal.

All Steinhatchee Resort guests booking a two-night consecutive stay between June 1 and 28, 2008, will receive a $50 gas credit toward their bill. It’s the perfect way to kick off your budget-friendly summer vacation.

Just three miles upstream from the Gulf of Mexico in Florida’s Big Bend, Steinhatchee Landing Resort is made up of 50 individually-owned Victorian and Florida Cracker-style cottages of varying sizes.

The entire property sits on 35 acres along the scenic Steinhatchee River, about 75 miles west of Gainesville. Resort amenities include a new pool and pavilion, children's playground, fitness center, indoor swim spa and sauna. More than 20 boat slips are available for water lovers, and resort staff can arrange guided scallop excursions or offshore fishing trips. 

That summer trip is starting to look pretty enticing.

Learn more about a summer getaway in northwest Florida by calling (800) 584-1709.