Economists know the value of a dollar. That’s why they schedule their conventions in January, when hotel rates are at their lowest. When retirees couple those low prices with senior discounts, they can save substantially. FareCompare.com recommends looking for “dead zones” which vary from place to place. Airfare to Spain is cheaper in the fall .. and if you skip ski season, Aspen is more affordable in July .. and the Colorado mountains are beautiful in summer.