"I think people feel a little more confident about the economy and their jobs," said show organizer Jeremy Garrett.
On the stage, presenters included actor and travel writer Andrew McCarthy, who discussed overcoming the fear of exploring new places; Pat Johnson and Regina Fraser, of the Grannies on Safari television show; and writer Danyelle Freeman, who gave tips on traveling the world through the foods you eat when you don't have the money to go places.
Marilyn and Enrique Burstin of Philadelphia mostly went to see Frommer, the man whose guidebooks have been a must-have since the couple took a road trip from Philadelphia to Nova Scotia as students 39 years ago.
The Burstins listened attentively during Frommer's presentation as the veteran travel writer outlined the ABCs of touring on a budget.
For cheap fares, use lesser-known aggregators such as dohop.com and momondo.com. These sites find flights that airlines are discounting because there are a substantial number of unsold seats.
Stay in bed-and-breakfasts, private homes, and apartments listed on sites such as wimdu.com and airbnb.com. Hotels are often more expensive and offer less space.
Travel light to avoid exorbitant luggage fees.
Avoid traveling with a large tour group.
"To travel on a bus with 45 other Americans is fatal," Frommer said. "When you go out on your own, you discover and enjoy so much more and you avoid spending $85 for a tour."
If you must travel with a group, find companies that offer tours with groups of about 12 people, Frommer said. Companies such as Intrepid Travel and DJoser tours and safaris offer trips at substantial discounts, Frommer said.
