Where will you be when your favorite team plays this year? (Photo courtesy of sports.espn.go.com)
Sure this time of year is all about holiday cheer, but if you are a collegiate football fan then cheer might mean supporting your favorite team in one of the upcoming bowl games.
College Bowl Games begin next weekend through January 9th, 2012 when the BCS Championship Bowl Game is played between Alabama and LSU. And whether or not you agree with which Bowl your team may have been selected for (BCS and ESPN hand in hand), College Bowl games are a great excuse for a vacation.
There are plenty of events and opportunities to interact with the team and coaches and of course, the game itself. And let’s not forget all the attractions that the host city has to offer. According to a recent article by Businessweek, 16 states (including the District of Columbia) are directly involved financially in supporting their bowls, understanding that more than $1.75 billion in economic impact is generated in the respective regions.
With 35 Bowl games this year to choose from, I’m highlighting a few standouts for the combination of destination, competitive match-up, and hotel deals.
Maaco Bowl Las Vegas – Las Vegas, NV
December 22, 2011
Some say 11-1 Boise State deserve a BCS bowl for their impressively played season. Regardless, Las Vegas is one of the most hospitable and entertaining destinations in the world. Check out these hotel deals in Las Vegas.
Sheraton Hawaii Bowl – Honolulu, HI
December 24, 2011
Who doesn’t want to add a little hula to their football revelry? Nevada and Southern Miss fans can take in some Hawaiian hospitality in Honolulu while cheering on their favorite teams. There are some great hotel deals in this tropical paradise. The only downside to this match-up? Airfare.
Champs Sports Bowl – Orlando, FL
December 29, 2011
This year FSU and Notre Dame are competitively matched for what should be a great game AND they get to share in a week of events and some theme park fun in Orlando. After all, what athlete doesn’t dream of saying after a victory “I’m going to Disneyworld!”
Outback Bowl – Tampa, FL
January 2, 2012
My Georgia Bulldawgs are taking on Michigan State University in Tampa. Tampa has such a great mix of what I like to call sun, sand and something fun to do at night. Stay at nearby beaches in town to enjoy Tampa’s dining, shopping and entertainment.
Valero Alamo Bowl – San Antonio, TX
December 29, 2011
Want a chance to see the Heisman winner lead Baylor to a Bowl victory over Washington or looking for a good excuse to see the famed River Walk? Either way, plan a New Year’s trip to San Antonio.
Allstate BCS Championship Game – New Orleans, LA
January 9, 2012
I just love a good SEC battle and while the game alone may be reason to travel, New Orleans is at its best when there’s a reason to celebrate. Take advantage of the festivities and book your hotel stay in New Orleans this week on Hotels.com. You can save up to 40% on your accommodations.
Headed to a different game? Check out Hotels.com to see even more bowl game hotel deals.
If you have questions or comments for the author of the Travel Smart Blog, Nicole Hockin, please email: 
