How Far Can You Travel On Your Tax Refund?; AAA Puts the 'Fun' in Refund

    SAN FRANCISCO--Aug. 2, 2001--As millions of IRS rebate checks begin flying through the mail, a looming question arises: How will taxpayers spend their refunds? For those planning a road trip, $300 can buy 174 gallons of gas at California prices. For others, it may mean a new set of tires on the old '69 Mustang. But for people looking for a little R&R, the rebate could be a ticket to a weekend getaway. With checks up to $300 for individuals and $600 for married couples, AAA Travel has a suitcase full of suggestions for end-of-the-summer vacations.
    "With the sluggish economy, the travel industry has slashed its prices not only on airline tickets, but also on cruises and tours," said Jennifer McMutrie, AAA's senior director of travel sales. "Reduced prices and increased competition have really turned the travel world into a buyer's market."
    So where can $600 take you these days? AAA Travel, the nation's largest leisure travel agency, has some options on where you can go and what you can do once the rebate arrives in the mailbox.

--	A family of four can drive to Anaheim and spend three days and two weekend nights, with 3-day passes to Disneyland and Disney's California Adventure for only $484.
--	Two adults can fly roundtrip to Las Vegas and stay for three days and two weekday nights at the world-renowned Bellagio for $621. Subtract the $600 IRS rebate and the cost of the trip is only $10.50 per person.
--	For those looking for the ultimate "rebate getaway," AAA member discounts can reduce a 3-day weekend cruise to Mexico on Royal Caribbean to just $633.90 for two adults. With a full IRS refund, it's only $16.95 per person.
--	Rise above it all and take your loved one on a hot air balloon ride over the Napa Valley for $370. Use your individual rebate, and a romantic ride above the roaming vineyards is only $70.

    "We're seeing a strong interest among our members in using the rebates for travel and weekend excursions," said McMutrie.
    Established 100 years ago, AAA offers a wide array of automotive, travel, insurance and financial services. The California State Automobile Association serves more than four million members and is the second-largest affiliate of the national AAA organization.