Author Archives: Jit

How does Shrimp survive? NU knows!

Northwestern Now

research & innovation
February 26, 2025
Good morning! Welcome back to our monthly newsletter highlighting the latest research happening all around us here at Northwestern.

In this issue, we’re covering shrimp that pack a punch, a sponge that slurps up pollutants and a black hole putting on an impressive display.

And, as always, we’d love to hear from you: Reach out if you have feedback or a news tip for a future issue.

mantis shrimp

How mantis shrimp survive the explosive power of their tiny fists

Known for their powerful punch, mantis shrimp can smash a shell with the force of a .22 caliber bullet. Yet, amazingly, these tough critters remain intact despite the intense shockwaves created by their own strikes.

Northwestern researchers have discovered how mantis shrimp remain impervious to their own punches: Their fists, or dactyl clubs, are covered in layered patterns, which selectively filter out sound. By blocking specific vibrations, the patterns act like a shield against self-generated shockwaves.

Read more about the crustaceans’ incredible clubs.

Sponge

This sponge soaks up pollutants but saves valuable minerals

Northwestern researchers have developed a sponge that slurps up pollutants, offering a reusable and cost-effective solution to water contamination while giving valuable resources a second life. Read more.
Ukrainian soldier

New paths for alleviating pain, from the battlefield to home

A Northwestern Medicine study followed 74 Ukrainians who had undergone traumatic limb amputations due to war injuries to investigate a new way to treat post-amputation pain. It found that a simple procedure called hydrodissection could reduce residual limb pain and opioid dependence. 

Feinberg’s Dr. Steven Cohen, who led the study, also recently offered his take on the new pain medication Journavx, an alternative to opioid medications that doesn’t carry the typical risk of addiction.

More top news

• Cancer: Northwestern researchers have discovered a new way to potentially treat cancer by targeting and removing harmful proteins from cells.

• TechnologySynthetic neurons that bridge the gap between biology and technology open the door for more intelligent robots.

• Medicine: A microbial therapy could one day offer a new treatment to millions affected by the autoimmune disease vitiligo, according to a Northwestern study.

• Innovation: Northwestern physicists propose a way to maintain communications in a quantum network by strategically rebuilding disappearing connections.

• Heart health: Northwestern Medicine researchers have revealed a path to helping damaged hearts heal, inspired by the immune systems of newborns.

A galactic light show
Black hole flares
Using NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope, a Northwestern-led team of astrophysicists has found that the Milky Way’s central black hole is putting on a constant, rapid-fire light show.
Most people think of juicing as a healthy cleanse, but this study offers a reality check.”
Feinberg’s Dr. Melinda Ring on a study that finds juicing may have harmful effects in just three days
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Holistic Chamber of Commerce Upcoming Events

In today’s featured article, HCC member Dotty Scott talks about how using certain colors on your website can boost engagement and sales. However, color theory can be applied to all different facets of life: home decor, your wardrobe, the food on your plate, what you sell in your Etsy craft store, etc.

So even if you don’t have a website, check out this informational article on what colors energetically attract what.

Website Color Theory Can Boost Your Website’s Engagement and Sales

By: Dotty Scott

From Pennies to Prosperity: The Journey to

Financial Freedom

with Evie Diaz

Join us Friday for this HCC YouTube channel livestream member spotlight with Evie Diaz! She will be sharing some ways we can create financial freedom.

Can’t make it live? No worries. The replay will be available after the broadcast on YouTube, the HCC Members-Only FB group, and the HCC FB page.

Party Indoors in Panama City Beach

From the Desk of Lak Vohra, Editor of PartyDigest.com:

I wanna give thanks to the Lady Entrepreneurs of Panama City Girls who like to take the party indoors for the sake of another business – thanks for taking one for the team ladies! We love you and can’t wait to make a special cigar just for you! Playboy TV is watching you!

Each year, millions of people visit the Panama City Beach area of the Sunshine State. They are mainly coming to do all the splendid things that nature provides along the Gulf of Mexico, but they also seek out additional activities to help balance the trip. Most visitors will not end up spending all day outdoors, especially as the weather heats up and tropical storms roll in. The good news is that there are plenty of things people can do when visiting the area to help create a comfortable balance for all ages.

“We have a lot of amazing things happening at Wonderworks, and we are glad that so many people think of us when they are ready for indoor fun,” said Darren Grooms, general manager at WonderWorks Panama City Beach. “Whether you want to plan your day around an exciting adventure here at the upside-down house or add it to your itinerary when an indoor break is needed, we are ready for all visitors.”

The Panama City Beach area is filled with so many fun activities for families to explore that it’s a good idea to know ahead of time some of the options to add to your itinerary. Here is a list of things to consider doing when visiting the area so there’s a balance of fun, memories, and ways to keep cool:

Indoor activities. It is imperative that everyone visiting the area have at least one indoor activity in mind because they are likely to want and need it. Kids especially will need a break from the sun and heat, making an indoor activity ideal. WonderWorks Panama City Beach is the top indoor destination for fun, learning, and hands-on activities that people will not want to miss. Explore four floors of exhibits and attractions that are sure to spark the imagination.

Beach time. No trip to the Florida Panhandle would be complete without spending time at the beach. Grab some snacks and sunscreen and hit the beach. Those looking for a pro tip will want to go to the beach in the evening when the sun goes down. It creates the most pleasant and unexpected experience. Those who wish to stay after sunset can plan a bonfire on the beach in designated areas for a unique way to wrap up the day.

Water Sports. There are plenty of water sports to consider, with something for all families. Options abound, including jet skiing, boating, fishing, dolphin tours, paddle boarding, and snorkeling. Whether doing these with a local guide or heading out alone, plenty of fun awaits in the refreshing Florida water.

Cool Springs. Those looking to cool off and keep it outdoors will want to plan a stop at a nearby spring. Florida is home to more fresh springs than any other place in the world. The springs stay cool all year, around 72 degrees Fahrenheit, and remain crystal clear. Check out Williford Springs, Cypress Spring, Morrison Spring, or Vortex Spring for the coolest outdoor activity around.

State Parks. Some great state parks in the area provide ample opportunity for fun in the sun. Don’t miss Saint Andrew State Park or Camp Helen State Park; both offer beach activities and other nature exploration opportunities.

“Spend some time at the beach in the morning and when it heats up and you’ve had enough, come inside WonderWorks for a fantastic afternoon of adventure,” said Amanda Hinzman, sales manager at WonderWorks Panama City Beach. “We provide the best indoor fun for families because there’s truly something for everyone.”

WonderWorks Panama City Beach offers fun and educational opportunities all year long. They include laser tag, a ropes course, the Xtreme 360 Bikes, other physical challenges, a virtual reality Grave Digger monster truck ride, the Bubble Lab, extreme weather experiences, a look at space discovery, illusion art, and much more. There are also team bonding activities for groups such as field trips, sports teams, bus tours, student activities excursions, etc. Advanced registration is required to receive a discounted group rate, which can be made online at: https://www.wonderworksonline.com/panama-city-beach/groups/.

Junior League of Jax Free Event

Partydigest.com has been an integral part of Junior Leagues around the US promoting and partnering with them over 30 years – be in in Georgetown in DC ir the gorgeous mansion in Manhattan or in St Augustine FL. When this came across our desk we said sure why not let’s promote it! It’s not everyday the Junior League does s free event

Save the Date! Join the Junior League of Jacksonville a week from today, on Tuesday, March 4th for a free, open-to-the-public event kicking off #WomensHistoryMonth. The esteemed panel (including James Weldon Johnson Park’s Executive Director, Liz McCoy 💙) will discuss the importance of Women in Jacksonville’s history and the vital role of women in leadership today.

Visit https://tinyurl.com/WIHALJuniorLeagueJax so you can save your seat today!

Oscars & Cigars – Hosted by #HamptonsHavana, Sun 3-2

Event by HamptonsHavana
Come join us for a fabulous evening at our Oscars Viewing Party & Cigars event! Grab your friends and head over to 12793 Josslyn Ln for a night of glitz, glamour, and cigars.
Watch the stars walk the red carpet on the big screen while enjoying a fine selection of cigars. It’s the perfect way to celebrate Hollywood’s biggest night with fellow movie buffs. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience!
We will have a 90 inch TV screen in one room and flat screen TVs throughout the house to watch and enjoy.
We will serve Johnny Walker tastings throughout the night and you will receive 2 Sag Harbor Enigma Segars and 2 Private Label Cigars from our factory in the Dominican Republic.
Parking is limited please take uber as you will be drinking. Smoking in outdoor patio only weather permitting or take your cigars home and enjoy the Oscars with new friends!
Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/oscars-viewing-party-cigars-tickets-1219546007939

Jacksonville Jazz Festival

Duration: 4 days
Public Anyone on or off Facebook
The Jacksonville Jazz Festival is back for Memorial Day Weekend in Downtown Jacksonville, Florida • May 22 – 25, 2025!
For over 40 years, this festival has united music enthusiasts for a weekend of food, drinks, community, and, of course, music performed by some of your favorite artists! Join us for a weekend kickoff with the Jacksonville Jazz Piano Competition presented by Yamaha on Thursday, followed by three days of free, live music on our Met Park Stage presented by Publix.
Stay tuned for updates on the Jacksonville Jazz Festival social media channels and at jacksonvillejazzfest.com.
Follow us on Instagram and X (Twitter): @JaxJazzFest

St Paddy’s Day, 3-14, 5:30-8:30 PM

Sesquicentennial Park – Springfield
Duration: 3 hr
Public Anyone on or off Facebook
Mark your calendars for Friday, March 14 for a St. Patrick’s Day celebration, Historic Springfield-style!
We are excited to welcome Jacksonville Pipes & Drums back to Historic Springfield to kick things off for us at 5:30 PM in Sesquicentennial Park, followed by Irish band A Fine Kettle of Fish taking the stage at 6:00 PM.
Bring chairs or a blanket and enjoy a picnic dinner from local food trucks, and grab a beer from the SPAR Bar. Food and drink purchases begin at 5:30 PM. Be sure to stop by the SPAR tent for some fun activities for the littlest leprechauns, and a 50/50 raffle!
This event is FREE and family-friendly – and a perfect way to kick off your St. Patrick’s Day weekend!
THANK YOU to our sponsors and partners for making this event possible: presenting sponsor Terrawise Homes, M&M Homes and UF Health Jacksonville.

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TravMedia Meets: Behind the Scenes with AAA & ACE

On Thursday, March 6, at 4:00 PM EDT, TravMedia invites you to our latest webinar series, TravMedia Meets: Behind the Scenes with AAA & ACE.

For more than a century, the American Automobile Association (AAA) has inspired members with captivating travel, automotive, and lifestyle content.

Today, Auto Club Enterprises (ACE), the largest AAA club, reaches more than 9.8 million households across 21 states with the quarterly Westways and AAA Explorer magazines, weekly Traveling with AAA podcast, monthly email newsletters, and online coverage.

From savvy travel advice to deep dives on fascinating destinations around the world, ACE’s content is the most used AAA source for obtaining travel and leisure info by members.

TravMedia Meets will take you behind the scenes with AAA & ACE, discussing their editorial structure, content focus, and collaboration opportunities.

​​​​Please join us for an exclusive conversation with the team that brings you AAA & ACE.

Sincerely,

Kim Grant, SATW, ASJA
Global Media Director
TravMedia
E: kim.grant@travmedia.com
M: +1 617-901-9628
W: www.travmedia.com

REGISTER NOW

Raise a Glass to Southern Hospitality

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COCKTAILS, SOUTHERN STYLE: Pours, Drinks, Sips, and Bites
By Belinda Smith-Sullivan
Gibbs Smith / March 2025
Hardcover / $21.99
ISBN: 9781423666059
For Media Inquiries, review copies and to schedule an interview, contact:
Trina Kaye – The Trina Kaye Organization
TrinaKaye@tkopr.com / 310-963-3964
Raise a Glass to Southern Hospitality – A New Cocktail Book Celebrates the Art of Mixing Drinks with a Southern Flair
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Get ready to sip, savor, and celebrate with the ultimate guide to Southern-inspired cocktails and entertaining! COCKTAILS, SOUTHERN STYLE: Pours, Drinks, Sips, and Bites by renowned chef Belinda Smith-Sullivan, brings together approximately 90 recipes for classic cocktails, innovative flavor-profile drinks, and a bonus chapter packed with delectable nibbles to pair with your beverages. The book is a toast to the unmatched charm of Southern hospitality, where no drink is ever served without a perfectly paired treat.
COCKTAILS, SOUTHERN STYLE offers a wide variety of recipes to suit all tastes for any occasion. Whether hosting a lively celebration, enjoying a leisurely brunch, or relaxing on the porch with friends, COCKTAILS, SOUTHERN STYLE provide the perfect drink to elevate the moment. Categories include:
Celebration Cocktails: Perfect for toasts and festivities.
Brunch Favorites: Start your day with a Southern twist.
Afternoon Porch Sippers: Relax with refreshing classics.
            Five O’Clock Somewhere: Timeless drinks with modern updates.
            Spritzes, Smashes, and Farts: Vibrant and effervescent creations.
            Shandies and Beer Cocktails: Unique spins on familiar favorites.
            Mocktails and Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Fun, flavorful options for everyone.
Some of the drinks found in the book include:
  • Swamp Water
  • Tennessee Iced Tea
  • Southern Belle Martini
  • Ginger Shandy
  • Mississippi Bourbon Punch
In addition to delightful drinks, Smith-Sullivan includes recipes for infused vodkas, simple syrups, and an in-depth look at the structure of a cocktail, complete with techniques and equipment tips to elevate your bartending skills.
But no Southern soiree is complete without snacks! The bonus chapter features mouthwatering recipes for Mini Hot Browns, Pimento Cheese and Tomato Sliders, Sausage Roll Poppers, and Crab Hush Puppies—ensuring your guests have plenty of delicious bites to accompany their drinks.
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“This book isn’t just a collection of cocktail recipes; it’s a celebration of Southern culture and hospitality,” says Smith-Sullivan. “Every drink and dish are crafted to bring people together, spark joy, and create unforgettable moments.”
 BELINDA SMITH-SULLIVAN is a chef, food writer, spice blends entrepreneur, and a commercially rated pilot. She has a culinary arts degree from Johnson & Wales University and writes a monthly column for South Carolina Living magazine. She also is featured on South Carolina Living’s website with monthly how-to videos. Smith-Sullivan is an active member of the Southern Foodways Alliance, International Association of Culinary Professionals, American Culinary Federation, and Les Dames d’Escoffier. She lives in Winston-Salem, NC.
Try this delicious sip of Southern hospitality.
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CIDER SIDECAR
This recipe takes the traditional sidecar combination of cognac, Cointreau, and lemon and adds one of the South’s favorite nonalcoholic beverages to the mix. Apple cider just turned into a grown-up treat.
SERVES 1
2 ounces fresh apple cider
2 ounces cognac
1 ounce Cointreau
1 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
Lemon twists, for rimming and garnish
Granulated sugar, for rimming
Apple wheels (optional)
GLASS: champagne coupe
Pour the cider, cognac, Cointreau, and lemon juice into a shaker, and top with ice.
Shake until very chilled. Rub the rim of the glass with a piece of lemon zest, then dip the rim of the glass into the sugar.
Strain the cocktail into the coupe and garnish with lemon twist and apple wheels (if using).
Recipe and photo may be reprinted with the following credit:
Recipe and photo reprinted with permission from Cocktails, Southern Style by Belinda Smith-Sullivan, Gibbs Smith March 2025

Discover Family Fun in Syracuse

Located just a handful of hours from New York City, Central New York is filled with hidden gems. Visitors and locals alike are able to enjoy world-famous waterfalls, state parks, exciting attractions, and the bustling city of Syracuse at the heart of it all. Once people learn of all the unique things to do in the Syracuse area, they can’t resist adding them to their New York itinerary. Family fun awaits around every corner, so it’s a good idea to start planning your next vacation or stay-cation.

 

“There are so many great activities to do in this area!” said Jon Cascella, general manager at WonderWorks Destiny. “We are thrilled to be one of the places many consider a local gem. It’s great to plan lots of activities, but being able to add one like WonderWorks that provides a fun indoor place for the family is gold.”

 

Those planning a visit to the area will want to consider these family fun activities that are locally renowned:

  • WonderWorks. This is a must-do for all families and STEM fans. The indoor amusement park for the mind features activities and hands-on exhibits that everyone will love. With over 100 hands-on exhibits and the World’s Largest Suspended Indoor Ropes Course, families will stay busy for hours learning and laughing. Challenge each other on the Canyon Climb, check out the Extreme Weather Zone, learn about sound and light, and step into simulators like the Wonder Coasters and 4D XD Motion Theater. WonderWorks is conveniently located inside Destiny USA, New York’s largest shopping, dining, and entertainment destination.
  • Rosamond Gifford Zoo. What family wouldn’t love a day at the zoo? Check out the indoor and outdoor exhibits, visit the many animals, and more. There is much to explore here, including wildlife trails, an elephant preserve, a wide variety of animals, and a café to grab lunch. The zoo hosts many exciting events throughout the year including runs, educational talks, and the popular Brew at the Zoo.
  • Onondaga Lake Park. Spend some time outdoors at this beautiful park that features over eight miles of trails. There’s also a concrete area open to inline skaters, skateboarders, and BMX bikers, multiple playgrounds, bike rentals, and more. Plenty of fun for everyone can be found here, so be sure to take a camera because there are some excellent photo opportunities. Plus, you won’t want to miss Onondaga Lake Park’s annual Lights on the Lake drive-through, one of Central New York’s favorite holiday traditions.
  • Local Museums. It’s always nice to expand one’s horizons by checking out a local museum. Be sure to stop by the Everson Museum of Art to see the permanent and temporary collections and possibly take in some of their special events. There are over 11,000 works of art to explore.
  • Quirky Stops. Some quirky little stops help make a trip more interesting, such as the 24-second shot clock marker in Armory Square. The clock honors the rule change in basketball that is said to have saved the National Basketball Association. While visiting that one, several other historical markers are within walking distance, including the banks of the Erie Canal. Syracuse is also home to the world’s only upside-down traffic light, where the green light is on top and the red light is on the bottom.

“Family fun abounds in this area of the state,” said Paige Perry, sales manager at WonderWorks Destiny. “Plan a whole day of playing, making memories, and exploring. Have a great itinerary, but keep a little time open just in case something unexpected pops up!”

 

There are many exciting improvements and additions on the horizon for the city of Syracuse, from the I-81 Viaduct Project to the development of a brand-new aquarium. So, whether you live there or are planning a vacation to beautiful Central New York, Syracuse is the place to be.

 

WonderWorks Destiny is a proud provider of educational programs and promotions throughout the year for local students and families to enjoy. It also offers group rates, birthday parties, scout weekends, homeschool days, and corporate event packages. For more information, visit the site at: https://www.wonderworksonline.com/destiny.

 

About WonderWorks

WonderWorks, a science-focused indoor amusement park, combines education and entertainment into one venue. With over 100 hands-on exhibits, there is something unique and challenging for all ages. Feel the power of 71 mph hurricane-force winds in the Hurricane Shack. Make life-sized bubbles in the Bubble Lab. Get the NASA treatment and experience zero gravity in the Astronaut Training Gyro. Nail it by lying on the death-defying Bed of Nails. WonderWorks is in Orlando, Pigeon Forge, Panama City Beach, Myrtle Beach, Syracuse, and Branson. Visit WonderWorksonline.com/destiny and follow @WonderWorksDestiny on Facebook, @WonderWorksDUSA on Twitter, and @WonderWorks_dusa on Instagram.

Amu Nutrition’s Traditional Mongolian Teas

Amu Nutrition, a trailblazer in organic herbal teas rooted in Mongolian traditional medicine, continues to live up to its commitment to promoting optimal health and well-being through its meticulously crafted tea blends. Founded by childhood friends and entrepreneurs Khulan and Daria in 2013, Amu Nutrition blends ancient wisdom with modern nutrition to offer a unique array of herbal teas and Shilajit that harness the power of Mongolia’s pristine natural resources.

Drawing from the wild-harvested herbs of the Mongolian Altai mountains, Amu Nutrition emphasizes purity and authenticity in its offerings. Each tea is picked at peak ripeness to ensure maximum freshness, providing a distinct flavor profile while delivering a host of health benefits. With a focus on antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, Amu Nutrition’s teas support hydration, digestion, and overall wellness, making them a natural choice for health enthusiasts worldwide. Not only are they known for their teas, but one of their most popular products is their Shilajit supplement – sourced directly from the Himalayas and the Altai Mountains – which is high in fulvic acid and has been studied for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, among many others.

“Amu Nutrition is committed to using only the highest quality herbal formulas in our products,” said Amu Nutrition founder Khulan, who has a decade of experience in international business and trade, and a Bachelor’s degree in international business and finance. “We follow the same Traditional Herbal Medicinal practices to restore balance to the body used by the people of Mongolia for thousands of years.”

Amu Nutrition began with a vision to merge ancient Mongolian dietary traditions with contemporary nutritional science. Through their “Food as Medicine” approach, Khulan and Daria have transformed the lives of over 20,000 customers at their four nutrition centers in Mongolia. Their innovative approach has rekindled interest in ancient Mongolian diets and has garnered trust and admiration among Mongolians and beyond.

Some of their popular teas include:

•       Himalayan Buckwheat Tea: Known for its rich nutty flavor and health benefits, including high antioxidant content and digestive support.

•       Daily Detox Tea: A revitalizing blend of Chrysanthemum, Goji Berry, Lotus Seed, and Jujube, designed to support natural detoxification and enhance overall wellness.

•       Balance Digestion Tea: Featuring fennel seeds and nettle, this tea aids in digestive health, reduces bloating, and enhances nutrient absorption.

•       Mongolian Black Goji Berry Tea: Rich in antioxidants and immune-boosting properties, this tea offers a natural energy boost and supports skin health.

•       Sugar Balance Tea: Crafted with Tartary buckwheat, cassia seed, and dried apple to promote metabolic health and regulate blood sugar.

At Amu Nutrition, the name “Amu,” meaning “grains” in Mongolian, symbolizes resilience and the natural strength of their herbal blends. Each tea is designed to help you thrive regardless of life’s circumstances, rebalancing your body and realigning your spirit.

About Amu Nutrition

Amu Nutrition is dedicated to revitalizing health and wellness through organic herbal teas rooted in traditional Mongolian medicine. Founded by Khulan – who has a decade of experience in international business and is now pursuing her passion for wellness – and her childhood friend Daria, the company combines ancient wisdom with modern nutrition to offer a range of expertly formulated teas and Shilajit supplements that promote optimal well-being through healthier eating and detox practices. For more information about Amu Nutrition’s products, please visit https://amunutrition.com/.

Budget-friendly weekend getaways: travel smarter in 2025

Our gorgeous friend Sam Walker (pictured above) from across the pond sent us this quick note about pne of her clients and we cannot wait for Sam to invite us on these jaunts with her soon so we can spend some QT with her, says our Publisher Lak Vohra!

Budget-friendly weekend getaways: travel smarter in 2025

A weekend getaway doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. With the right approach, you can enjoy a refreshing escape without overspending. From finding the best travel deals to making the most of loyalty programs, there are plenty of ways to stretch your budget while still experiencing a fantastic trip. The Consumer Experts at www.Coupons.com have compiled their top tips on how you can travel smarter in 2025 without sacrificing quality.

Book last-minute deals for big savings. If you’re flexible with your travel dates and destinations, last-minute deals can help you save significantly. Airlines and hotels often slash prices to fill unsold seats and rooms, making it possible to grab a discounted rate just days before departure. Websites like Coupons.com offer promo codes and travel deals for major airlines and hotel chains, helping you secure the best prices on short notice.

Bundle your travel for deeper discounts. Booking your flight, hotel and car rental together can lead to serious savings. Travel websites often offer exclusive discounts when you bundle services, reducing the overall cost of your trip. Many online travel agencies, including Expedia and Priceline, provide package deals that can help you cut expenses while still enjoying a comfortable stay. Using available coupon codes can add even more savings on top of already discounted rates.

Maximize loyalty rewards and cashback. Frequent travelers can benefit from loyalty programs that offer points, discounts and even free stays. Many airlines, hotel chains and car rental companies provide perks to returning customers. If you use a rewards credit card, you can earn cashback or travel points on your bookings.

Explore low-cost destinations. Some destinations naturally offer better value than others. Cities like Austin, Nashville and Charleston provide a mix of culture, history and entertainment without the high price tag of major tourist hubs like New York or Los Angeles. If you’re looking for a nature-focused retreat, national parks like Great Smoky Mountains or Shenandoah offer stunning landscapes with low-cost accommodation options, including campgrounds and budget-friendly lodges.

Find affordable accommodations. Hotels aren’t the only option when it comes to lodging. Budget-conscious travelers can explore alternatives like vacation rentals, hostels and even house swaps. Many platforms, including Airbnb and Vrbo, offer discounted stays for last-minute bookings or extended weekends. Checking for available promo codes before booking can further reduce costs, making it easier to find a comfortable place to stay within your budget.

Alexander Ketter, Consumer Expert at www.Coupons.com, commented:

“Weekend getaways don’t have to be expensive if you know where to look for savings. By taking advantage of last-minute deals, booking travel bundles, and leveraging loyalty rewards, you can enjoy an affordable trip without compromising on quality. The key is to plan strategically and make the most of available discounts.”

The team at Coupons.com have also shared some of the best discounts and deals available right now for those wanting to book a trip:

Travelocity – Fort Lauderdale, Florida hotels starting at just $52 a night / 50% off vacations with email sign up

www.coupons.com/coupon-codes/travelocity

Airbnb – up to 25% off with early bookings

www.coupons.com/coupon-codes/airbnb

Avis – up to 25% off 3+ days car rental

www.coupons.com/coupon-codes/avis

Hertz – 1 free day for early week pickups

www.coupons.com/coupon-codes/hertz

Southwest – $100 off flight & hotel deals

www.coupons.com/coupon-codes/southwest

American Airlines – extra 10% off flights to NYC

www.coupons.com/coupon-codes/american-airlines

Hotels.com – up to 20% off last-minute getaways

www.coupons.com/coupon-codes/hotels-com