kayak

Just cause Fall is quickly approaching doesn't mean your vacation plans have to come to a halt. If you've got the travel bug but are sick and tired of staying in cookie-cutter hotels and battling the crowds at the most popular tourist attractions (cause your hotel concierge sent you there), try something new. Check out these five online tools that will help you plan an affordable and unique vacation like you've never had before.

• Airbnb — This website allows "hosts" to rent out their apartments, bedrooms, living rooms, or entire houses to guests on the cheap. Not just a place to rest your head at night, Airbnb hosts are known for having a knack for hospitality: tea, coffee, muffins, and even sometimes a home-cooked meal await you in the morning, while other hosts act as tour guides for their guests. It's a great way to see a new place from a local's perspective, and save some money on lodging.
• Glamping Hub — Want to dip your toes in the outdoors but don't want to feel like you're roughing it? Glamping Hub lets you browse through and book some amazing outdoor accommodations so you can still feel in touch with nature, but get high class amenities like an actual bed, 600-thread count sheets, beachfront views, and even shopping and laundry services so you can stay fresh while you relax, all at extremely affordable prices.

See the rest of the list after the break!

There are days when I'm en route to work and then I remember — you were supposed to check flight prices for your big New Year's trip! Since flight prices are always going up and down, I either set up alerts or I remind myself to keep checking back to discount travel sites.

I already love using Kayak to compare flight prices, and now with its new and improved iPhone app, I can practically do all of the things on Kayak from my iPhone that I do on my computer. The Kayak app will also put all of your flight info, hotel confirmation, car rental bookings, maps, and other travel items into one itinerary — sort of like what TripIt does. I can definitely see this app making it to the top of my 2010 favorite iPhone app list.

If you're too hot to run, bike, or hike outside, but you still want to enjoy the Summer weather, exercising on water is a great way to beat the heat. Kayaking is one of my favorite water sports because it's safe to do alone, or if you prefer some company, you can kayak with a group of people.

The paddling action will effectively tone your arms, back, and abs. Sitting upright will also increase flexibility in your hamstrings and improve your posture. It's a great complement if you're a runner or biker, since most of the work is done by your upper body and back. You can paddle hard to burn calories and work your muscles, and if you get tired, you can slow down or take a break and just let the current float you along. The best part is that if you get hot, you can jump in the water for instant refreshment.

To find out how to get started read more