The travel and tourism industry has been hard hit by the current recession, and this is evident by the many well-known airlines, holiday companies and travel agents that have gone out of business recently. The public are cutting back on luxury items and non essentials including holidays abroad. However, rather than doing without a holiday, many are choosing to holiday for one week instead of two, or taking short breaks. In addition, in order to avoid losing out on a holiday altogether, many people are choosing to take their vacation closer to home, selecting European destinations over long haul journeys to the Caribbean, India and the Far East.
Dubrovnik
on the Dalmatian Coast
of Croatia |
There are many options available to the holiday maker who wishes to save money. Instead of staying in a private villa or hotel, the cheaper option would be to book a self catering package holiday in an apartment with a shared pool, close to all the facilities needed for a self catering holiday. Alternatively, travelling independently by booking a cheap flight with one of the many airlines such as Flybe from a number of UK airports and selecting accommodation from an online holiday rental site can offer savings. Many of the larger holiday companies offer flights only and accommodation only deals as well as package deals. Another way to secure a cheaper holiday package is to book a last minute holiday. If you are able to travel within a couple of days notice, or if you do not restrict yourself to just one departure airport or particular resort, there are plenty of bargains to be obtained.
Lake
Bled in Slovenia
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By searching online and comparing prices it will become obvious that a particular holiday at a specified hotel or apartment complex can vary in cost considerably. There are several bargain holiday websites available that search for the cheapest prices available. Many websites deal with cancellation holidays on a last minute basis. A further way to save money when booking a holiday is to consider staying in accommodation without the luxury facilities. Although the idea of staying in apartments without a swimming pool may not appeal to you, there is nearly always a complex, hotel or restaurant nearby offering the use of their pool to anyone using their bar, snack bar or restaurant.
UK newspapers frequently offer money saving vouchers for holidays booked during certain times of the year. It may also be worth considering holidaying out of season or by avoiding school holidays, when prices are considerably cheaper. If this is not possible because of school or work commitments, camping holidays are becoming increasingly popular as a money saving family holiday option. There are many holiday companies offering an accommodation only deal, providing luxury tents or caravans with excellent on site facilities, and all you have to do is book a cheap flight and organise car hire.
For an outdoor activity holiday, Turkey is a great place to experience water sports, diving, mountain biking and canoeing, while Croatia and Slovenia offer trekking and white water rafting in the mountains and rivers of the beautiful Soca Valley.
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