Malta, air/5 nights, from $1,199

Experience the cultures and nightlife of this Mediterranean island nation Explore this nation at the crossroads of Europe and northern Africa with the Malta Ala Carte package, which includes round-trip airfare, five nights' accommodations, and transfers. ARTHUR FROMMER'S BUDGET TRAVEL The real deal: Round-trip airfare, five nights' accommodations, and transfers, from $1,199 per person—plus taxes of about $195 per person. When: Nov. 1-12, 2008; add $100 for Jan. 7-12, 2009; $200 for Nov. 13-30, 2008, Jan. 13-31, Feb. 1-28, 2009; $300 for Dec. 1-26, 2008, March 1-31, April 1-6, 15-30, 2009; $400 for Dec. 27-31, 2008, Jan. 1-6, April 7-14, 2009; $500 for Sept. 1-Oct. 31; and $800 for Aug. 1-31, 2008. Gateways: Boston, New York City, and D.C.; add $50 for Chicago, L.A., Miami, and San Francisco; $65 for Orlando; $225 for Chicago,... [read full story]