As a rule of thumb I usually recommend at least 3 months for “close to home” destinations such as Hawaii, Mexico and the Caribbean. However, if you’re planning a special event such as a honeymoon/destination wedding, or traveling during peak travel months such as the holidays (Xmas, New Years, Spring Break, Winter break) you’ll want to book at least 6 months in advance to get the best available rates & availability.

Another good tip is that after mid-year holidays, you’ll usually see a price shift as hotels and cruises adjust their prices to try and capture last minute bookings. This is a great option for travelers that are able to pick up and go with minimal notice.

After memorial weekend- you’ll find great offers for last minute travel to Mexico, Hawaii & The Caribbean.  Keep in mind the weather isn’t always ideal at this time of year but it’s not unusual to find an all-inclusive vacation for a week with air from $699 per person.  This is also the best time to finalize those holiday (xmas/new years) plans as any decent availability will soon be gone.

After labor day weekend – you’ll find great last minute fall offers for Mexico, Hawaii, The Caribbean (again because of the weather factor) but this is also a great time to go to Europe! The crowds are gone, the museums are still open and the weather is usually quite nice until early December (depending where in Europe you’re interested).   This is also a good time to finalize your winter getaways (Jan-April) whether it’s snow capped mountains or sunny days and warm beaches you’re after.

With the economy being the way it is these days, hotels are struggling and vying for the business. This doesn’t always mean that they’ll start slashing prices but you’ll find a lot of attractive package options with “freebies” like a complimentary meal, spa treatment or excursion thrown in to make their hotel more appealing.

Airlines are also struggling and have consistently added new fees (up to $25 per bag now on most airlines; United also just announced they’re going to start charging for meals on International flights!) and up’d their fuel surcharge to the point of $150 per ticket each way on some routes!! As a travel agent, this probably steams me the most because then the airlines will advertise a $220 round trip fare to London for the fall season but neglect to mention the $400+ in taxes. I’m pretty sure this qualifies as false advertising.

I can’t stress enough how important it is to find a good quality travel agent to work with.  If it’s just an airline ticket to Des Moines or you’re a Motel 6 type of traveler, it’s probably worth it to you to spend hours googling for the best “deals” you can find. 

However, if you value your time and are looking for the best value for your dollar – nothing beats working with an experienced travel professional who will take the time to get to know you.  Your likes, dislikes, budget, etc. in order to match you with the right destination, the right hotel or the right cruise vacation for you.  An experienced travel professional knows that if you come back happy and refreshed from your travels, you’ll come back for your next vacation and tell your friends about us.  We’re not just after the $ (minimal though it is) but value the relationships we build with our clients and take pleasure in knowing we arranged the perfect trip just for you.  That really is the best reward. 

That’s my Friday ramble for this week.  Give me a call or send me an email if you’re thinking of traveling somewhere – you’re welcome to pick my brain. Call me 866-384-0132