The Tax Man Cometh

Hip, hip, hooray! Tax day is here!

April 15 is coming up, and I'm thrilled. Like most Americans, I'm getting a refund. According to the IRS, the average tax refund for 2007 was $2,733. My refund typically seeds or funds my summer vacation.

This year that money will go a long way. Take even a portion of your 2008 refund and combine it with the unprecedented deals currently being offered by the travel industry, and you've got yourself the makings for a great summer vacation. Check out our web story for 15 strategies and deals to get you started. And see our Smart Traveler story in the current issue of the magazine (April 2009) for more ideas.

Photo: A trip to Jamaica's Montego Bay is just one way to spend your tax refund. Courtesy Half Moon Resort.