I Left My Heart in Transylvania

Travelers looking for the real Halloween travel deal--or a summer, fall or spring deal as well--might consider an Eastern Europe vacation for a splendid trip that offers all of the history, culture, and natural beauty of Western Europe at roughly a third to half the cost depending on the venues you choose.

This region is home to Transylvania, summer nights where midnight is light as day, medieval villages, and regional cuisines and wines that keep visitors coming back. Each of the following destinations is popular among tourists, yet surprisingly affordable. Even so, you can take even more of the price of a trip with Orbitz travel coupon for $50 off a 4 night stay or Travelocity hotel coupons, including one for $100 off.

Here are some highlights to a mostly overlooked and under-priced travel destination:

Romania, Dracula's Castle and Transylvania - Transylvania is a region in Romania where Vlad the Impaler lived. The fictional Dracula was loosely based on this Romanian leader who was more bloodthirsty than any vampire in its wildest dreams. Vlad eventually imprisoned in Bran Castle (i.e., Dracula's Castle as shown above). Transylvania, while intriguing, is just the beginning. Romania offers visitors some of Europe's best-preserved medieval towns, Saxon fortresses, and Gothic castles. There, nature lovers can explore the lush Carpathian Mountains and over 400 natural caves. Did I mention the vineyards? They produce over 500,000 tons of wine every year, known to Europeans as some of the finest on earth.

Estonia, White Nights and Medieval Castles - The nations of Latvia, Estonia, and Lithuania are called the Baltics because they border the Baltic Sea. Tourism there has flourished since 1991 when these nations broke away from the Soviet Union. Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, boasts the city center built around a stunning and well preserved 13th century castle where, except for the flourishing shops, a stroll feels like a step back in time. In June, catch the White Nights when it's light outside so long that midnight feels like noon. If you love regional wines, be sure to sample the fruit wines in Estonia with tastes and textures rival even the finest Spanish sangrias.

Croatia, Gorgeous Beaches and Mediterranean Climate - In Europe, everyone knows where to find a great beach vacation--Croatia. Whether you seek family beaches, romantic beaches, nude beaches, pebble or sand, Croatia has many shorelines to choose from. Besides the beautiful shorelines, Croatia offers islands, waterfalls, coves, and port towns like Dubrovnik that are not only centuries old, but area also vibrant with tourists, shops, nightlife, and sites of great historical significance. Last but not least--wine. Croatia has had a European presence in wine making for centuries and a remarkable variety of indigenous grapes.

The Czech Republic, Home to Bohemia and Budweiser - While Prague is fascinating to explore, nearby Czech cities are less expensive and just as beautiful. One popular destination is Karlovij Varij--otherwise known as Carlsbad, a fairytale-like spa resort town where the modern shops boast fine Bohemian crystal pieces and other local treasures. Plus, the restaurants and clubs offer visitors a chance to sip an original Budweiser beer. The name Budweiser was first coined in Bohemia (in the Czech Republic) in 1785 and shipped to the United States about 100 years later. Shortly after, Anheuser-Bush decided to use the Budweiser name, sparking a long-term trademark battle.

The Republic of Georgia, Real Highlanders plus Wining and Dining - Nestled right between the Black and Caspian Seas, this little nation hosts centuries-old monasteries, churches, and cave dwellings carved into ancient cliffs. In the mountains live modern day highlanders--villagers whose lifestyles are nearly unchanged since the Middle Ages. Georgian cuisine is one of a kind and simply addictive with salty cheeses, ground walnuts, and all the right spices. Did I mention the wine? Many European connoisseurs prefer Georgian wines even to world famous French and Italian varieties.

What is an inexpensive but fascinating destination you love to visit? Or one you haven't yet seen but really want to? Share with us. We love to travel and to avoid overspending while doing so!