Make The Most of Your Summer Travel Plans
With summer travel season nearly upon us, I thought I’d share a few tips for making the most of your summer vacation.
Plan Ahead
For summer travel, plan at least 6 months in advance, or be prepared to be flexible with what’s available. Peak summer travel season in Europe runs from June through September, and many of the most popular hotels are booked up well in advance of travel dates. If you wait until 3 months (or less) prior to travel, that boutique hotel in Positano that you have your heart set on will be completely sold out, so you may have to settle for an alternative property that may not have the same stellar reputation or location. For the very best pricing and availability, plan 6 to 9 months in advance. For “last minute” plans made 1 to 3 months in advance, be prepared to pay top dollar for accommodations that still have availability.
Brace For Crowds
Brace yourself for summer crowds. The kids are out of school, the weather is ideal, and everyone else is traveling too. Pack your patience and adjust your expectations. It WILL be crowded at virtually any of the major tourist destinations. To avoid crowds, make your travel plans for May or October. The weather is usually good, all of the restaurants and shops are open, hotel availability is easier to find, and rates are generally slightly lower.
Come prepared
When venturing out for the day, bring sunscreen and a bottle of water with you on any excursions. Lines can be long, the sun is hot, and you’ll want to stay hydrated to keep your energy up. Buy your excursion tickets (preferably “skip the line” passes) well in advance so that you don’t have to wait in line to purchase your tickets. These lines can be hours long and wrap around buildings and down the street for blocks. Showing up without tickets for a major attraction can eat up half of your day standing on line. There are much better (and more enjoyable) ways to spend your time!
Have an Itinerary
Planning your day to day itinerary is key, so that you know what’s on the schedule for each day. “Winging it” is a recipe for disaster. You’ll find yourself standing in lines, not able to squeeze everything in, or not able to find tickets for things you had hoped/planned on doing.
Allow for Down Time
When your planning your itinerary, be sure to allow time for traveling from place to place and for exploring, enjoying, and wandering. Some of the best memories can be made when walking the streets, stopping to admire architecture, browsing open air markets, or sitting and people watching in a cafe. Vacations are supposed to be relaxing, so don’t over-schedule yourself and find that you’ve got no time to stop and smell the roses.
Roll With It
Stuff happens. Flights can be delayed, drivers can be late, airline seating can be less than ideal, time changes can leave you confused about your time zone. Do the best you can to move forward, and get back on track. Don’t let a 20 minute delay with finding your tour guide or the fact that you’re not able to sit with a loved one on a flight send you into a tailspin. In the grand scheme of things, these are minor inconveniences.
Take the Insurance
It may seem like an expense that you can forego, but you’ll be glad that you have it. Travel protection plans often provide coverage for cancelled or delayed flights, emergency medical coverage, and 24 hour travel concierge service. Don’t leave home without it!
Fun ‘n’ Sun Travel & Cruise creates unique, memorable, and stress-free custom getaways to Europe, the Caribbean, and Mexico. Call us at 1-855-557-5588, or visit us on the web for more information.