With the morning headlines and the nightly news a constant reminder of the sinking stock prices and rising national debt, it's only natural that most of us are making an effort to be more thrifty with our purchases - and we're doing everything from buying generic brand cereal to booking cheaper vacations.

It may seem strange, perhaps even a little indulgent, but right now the cheapest way to get away is by jetting off to the Caribbean or Mexico and staying at an all-inclusive resort. It's true. Let's elaborate.

Non-inclusive hotel rates look more affordable on paper, and when you book a non-inclusive hotel, you will be spending less money at the time of booking. The problem is that once you arrive in your destination, you're going to end up spending more. A lot more. Because the price of a hotel room is not equal to the price of a vacation. You've got to budget for three meals a day, entertainment, and even things as small as the occasional cup of coffee. These things add up, and add up quickly. When you book a non-inclusive you're going to spend more time pinching pennies than you will enjoying your trip. Constantly thinking about your budget isn't fun when you're at home, and it's even less fun when you're away.

So unless you're traveling alone and planning on surviving on dry cereal the whole time, visiting nothing but free attractions, and watching lots of TV, add at least a few hundred dollars more to your budget. When you do the math, a single day of non-inclusive vacation can cost as much as two or three nights at an all-inclusive resort.

When it comes to getting the best value for your money, nothing can really compare to an all-inclusive vacation. The flat rate you pay includes everything, starting with your room (which has a view of the ocean or at the very least, the pool or tropical gardens), your meals and drinks (and many also include bottled, brand-name liquor and room service). The majority offer entertainment like nightly variety shows, live bands, and theme parties. Gorgeously-designed swimming pools are the norm.

And of course, no all-inclusive resort is complete without a sandy, palm-spotted beach just steps away.

Things like kayaks and snorkeling equipment are available at no cost, and some places provide free windsurfing and scuba diving instruction.

Staff members organize volleyball games, contests, and other activities. I could go on and on. In short, there is a lot to do and you won't have to reach for your wallet to enjoy yourself. And when you want to get your mind off the economy, that's a great way to start.

If the Caribbean and Mexico aren't your style, call a travel consultant who can match the budget you're willing to spend with a destination that fits what you're looking for.

Also, one of the only positive side-effects of the current economic situation is that the value of the U.S. dollar has increased overseas.

The exchange rate for the Euro and the British pound are better right now than they've been in years. Consequently, if there's a European country you've had your heart set on seeing, now could be the most affordable time to do it.

Liz Yurco works for Liberty Travel. She has worked in the travel industry for 20 years and loves to travel with her husband and three children