Tag: Book

  • Planning Your Mexico Winter Escape? When To Book For The Cheapest Flights  

    Planning Your Mexico Winter Escape? When To Book For The Cheapest Flights  

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    There’s only one thing better than jetting off for some winter sun when it’s cold outside: Doing it on a budget!  

    Let’s face it, none of us have an unlimited pot of money.  

    Natural infinity pool Hierve el Agua, Oaxaca, Mexico

    And the less we spend on our flights to arrive at our dream vacation spot, the more cash we’ll have left to spend when we get there.  

    So how do you find those elusive cheap flights?  

    Google Flights has analyzed their booking data and found that these are the best times to book your flights if you want the cheapest flights this winter: 

    When To Book The Cheapest Flights To Mexico  

    According to Google Flights the best time to book an international flight is at least 50 days before take off, with the lowest average prices dropping 101 days before you want to fly.  

    But when it comes to booking the cheapest flights to Mexico, the normal rules don’t apply!  

    A couple running on the beach in Cancun

    If you want to get the cheapest possible flights to Mexico, you’ll need to hold your nerve a little longer.  

    Google Flights has found that prices for traveling from the U.S. to both Mexco and the Caribbean are historically at their lowest 44 days before departure, with the price range for low flights being between 26-68 days before you take off.  

    So if you want to land in Mexico on December 23 so you can spend Christmas in the sunshine, for example? Then you need to book your flight on November 9 to get the best price!  

    Christmas decorations in the town hall square

    And if Thanksgiving in the sun is more your vibe then you’ll need to book your flights by October 14 for the cheapest flight options, if this same pattern holds true.

    Mexico is a dream vacation destination for American travelers looking for winter sun. And it’s a great place to spend the holiday season.  

    In fact, Google listed Cancun as the 2nd most searched destination for American travelers this holiday season.  

    Winter In Europe 

    Does this same rule apply if you want to escape this winter but would rather experience the cold and culture of Europe during the holiday season?  

    Strasbourg Cathedral During Wintertime, Strasbourg, France, Central Europe

    The simple answer is no! Booking flights to Europe is a whole different kettle of fish. And you’ll need to plan a little further ahead.  

    Trips to Europe if you’re departing from the U.S. have historically been cheapest 94 days before your departure date.  

    However, the same rules for international travel that I mentioned above also apply here. Always book at least 50 days before departure to get the prices: don’t wait until the very last minute or your wallet won’t thank you!  

    A Woman Admiring A View Of Freiburg Im Breisgau During Wintertime, Germany, Western Europe

    So if you want to arrive in Europe on December 23 to spend Christmas there?

    Then you need to think fast! The cheapest day to book your flights will be September 19, which is next week.  

    Other Tips To Get The Cheapest Possible Flight Prices  

    Of course, predicting when flights will be at their cheapest isn’t an exact science, nor would everyone be doing it.

    But they should give you a good idea of when to start comparing flight prices and when to book!  

    It’s also interesting to note that although some people swear by booking flights on a Tuesday, the reality is that flights booked on Tuesdays (the cheapest day to book) are only 1.3% cheaper than flights booked on Sundays (the most expensive day to book). 

    Female Passenger Sleeping On A Plane As Her Partners Gazes Out The Window Listening To Music In His Headphones, Unspecified Airline

    So if you find a price that works for you don’t hold off just because you’re not looking on a Tuesday!  

    What can make a difference isn’t the day you book but the day you fly.  

    Flying on a Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday has been found to be 13% cheaper than flying on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday for international flights.  

    If you’re looking at domestic flights then this price difference jumps up to 20%.  

    Woman in the airport

    And if you’re on a tight budget, and don’t mind inconveniencing yourself to save a buck or two then look for flights with a layover instead of nonstop flights.  

    Nonstop flights have been found to be 25% more expensive than flights with stops.

    And if you’re on a long-haul flight or traveling as a family, that can add up to a significant chunk of money!  

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    This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

    Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.



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  • Book Now! May Is The Cheapest Month To Visit These 3 Latin American Destinations

    Book Now! May Is The Cheapest Month To Visit These 3 Latin American Destinations

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    There’s never really a bad time to explore the wonders of Latin America, but if you’re trying to get the most out of your travels and save a little bit of money in the process, too, timing your visit right can make a world of difference.

    And according to Kayak, the perfect month to explore three of the region’s most coveted hotspots is quickly approaching!

    View of Rio De Janeiro

    The company’s data-based “Best Time To Travel” tool estimates that May is the ideal time to visit Brazil, Chile, and Uruguay because of lower prices, fewer crowds, and dreamy weather. So, if you’ve yet to make those reservations, you’ll need to move quickly!

    And if you don’t believe me, come with me as I take you through all the perks that come with exploring these three gorgeous countries in May, as well as some rough estimates of what you’ll pay in travel and accommodation if you do decide to go on a last-minute trip to Latin America this spring.

    Brazil

    With temperatures that average 64°F (18)°C and tons of crowdless attractions to explore, Brazil in May is nothing short of a traveler’s paradise – not to mention it’s cheaper, too!

    Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

    Seeing as flight prices this upcoming month will start at just $172, even the most budget-conscious of travelers will get a chance to enjoy its iconic sights.

    In fact, as of the time of writing this article, these are the average prices of round-trip economy tickets from eight of the biggest U.S. cities to Brazil (keep in mind that while these numbers are subject to change over time, the difference shouldn’t be too drastic over the course of a month):

    Rio De Janeiro Airport
    City Of Departure Price Of The Average Economy Ticket (May)
    New York $514
    Los Angeles $477
    Miami $172
    Chicago $692
    Washington $462
    San Francisco $636
    Boston $496
    Houston $572

    And by the looks of it, accommodation is set to be even cheaper, with plenty of gorgeous hotels offering rooms plus a hearty breakfast at just under $60 a night

    Chile

    Next up we have Chile, a country known for its fantastic food, awe-inspiring sights, and the fact that in May, it becomes the ultimate budget-friendly heaven.

    Japanese Park in Santiago, Chile

    Finding cute little apartments for just a little over $20 or $30 is not at all uncommon, and for less than $50, you’ll not only get into some of Booking’s most highly-rated hotels, but you’ll probably get breakfast thrown into the package, too.

    As far as airfare is concerned, these are some of the lower-end prices for round-trip tickets you can expect this May:

    A woman holding her passport and ticket, waiting to board an airplane
    City Of Departure Price Of The Average Economy Ticket (May)
    New York $533
    Los Angeles $351
    Miami $377
    Chicago $600
    Washington $785
    San Francisco $400
    Boston $380
    Houston $620

    I also want to quickly mention that if you want to visit Chile during the spring-summer months but still avoid the dreaded wet season, May is your last chance to do so.

    Uruguay

    Last but not least, we have one of Latin America’s most massively underrated destinations – Uruguay.

    Montevideo, Uruguay

    The often-overlooked country not only boasts the same stunning sights you’d expect in, say, Brazil or Argentina, but it’s also one of the safest places you’ll find in the entire region (along with Chile).

    I do want to point out, however, that travel costs to Uruguay, in general, are a bit higher compared to the two other countries, but one thing remains true – May is the cheapest time to book those tickets.

    Booking flight, buying plane tickets online

    Take a look at how much you can expect to spend on yours depending on where you’re located:

    City Of Departure Price Of The Average Economy Ticket (May)
    New York $650
    Los Angeles $890
    Miami $520
    Chicago $640
    Washington $818
    San Francisco $871
    Boston $930
    Houston $1320

    Aside from offering the lowest airfare, May also promises dreamy springtime weather and quiet streets to those quick enough to book their trip in time.

    Car parked in a cobblestone street in Colonia Del Sacramento, Colonia Department, Uruguay, South America

    What’s more, travel isn’t the only cost you can cut back on if you schedule your Uruguay visit next month.

    A quick Booking search will tell you there are some great little apartments for rent starting at just $35, whereas more traditional, facility-filled hotels rarely exceed the $120 mark.

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    Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.

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  • Why Right Now Is The Best Time To Book A Cruise For 2024

    Why Right Now Is The Best Time To Book A Cruise For 2024

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    If your travel plans for 2024 are still up in the air, let’s talk about how right now is the best time all year to book that cruise you’ve been dreaming of.

    Cruising is becoming an increasingly popular way to travel, and there are cruises out there for every type of traveler.

    Whether you dream of island-hopping in the Caribbean, exploring adventurous destinations like the Galapagos Islands or Alaska, or hitting up bucket list-worthy places in Europe, a cruise is the perfect way to accomplish it.

    Large Cruise Ship

    Here’s why right now is the best time to book a cruise, and why you should go cruising in 2024.

    It’s “Wave Season” For Cruises

    It’s wave season in the cruise industry right now, which means it’s the best time to book a cruise.

    Wave season lasts from January through March, and it’s when you’ll find the best deals and steepest discounts on cruises. This is because cruise lines are trying to fill up the upcoming year with bookings, especially those outside of peak holiday travel dates, according to USA Today.

    If you want to book a cruise for any time in 2024, now is going to be the best time to do it.

    Couple on a Cruise

    Cruising Can Be Surprisingly Affordable

    When you take advantage of wave season deals, a cruise vacation can be shockingly affordable.

    Cruises are priced based on double occupancy (two people sharing a cabin) although there are some cruise lines that do not charge extra for solo travelers.

    The per-person cost of a cruise can be as little as $100 per day, and this includes your accommodation, unlimited food and some drinks, and transportation between all destinations. Of course, it’s easy to rack up a higher bill (purchasing a beverage package, paying for onboard Wi-Fi, booking excursions in the ports you’re visiting) but a cruise is still typically much cheaper than traveling on your own.

    Woman on a cruise ship

    Here are the top ways to get the most bang for your buck with a cruise in 2024:

    See Trending Destinations In Europe

    One of the top cruises to take this year is a European cruise. There are two main types of European cruises: large-ship cruises and small-ship cruises.

    Large-ship cruises go all over Europe, but small-ship cruises typically stick to places the large ships can’t go (like down one of Europe’s many scenic rivers.)

    Reichsburg Castle aerial panoramic view in Cochem in Moselle valley, Germany

    A European cruise is a great way to visit multiple destinations in Europe without having to worry about the logistics yourself. For example, a one-week Adriatic cruise might include stops in Venice, Italy, Dubrovnik, Croatia, and several islands in Greece.

    This can also be a lot cheaper than trying to visit each place on your own!

    Pro tip: Take a European cruise in late May or early September. This is “shoulder season” and there won’t be as many crowds.

    White architecture on Santorini island, Greece. Beautiful summer landscape, sea view.

    Island-Hop In The Caribbean

    If you’re dreaming of a tropical getaway, why not take a Caribbean cruise in 2024?

    Caribbean cruises are an easy and hassle-free vacation, and they are often some of the most affordable cruises for American travelers. Most Caribbean cruises leave from ports in Florida or Texas and visit destinations all around the Caribbean.

    This is the perfect way to island-hop in the Caribbean and experience multiple destinations in one journey. Traveling between Caribbean islands can be prohibitively expensive, so a cruise is a great way to get a taste of several destinations at an affordable price.

    Royal Caribbean Cruise

    Experience A Bucket List Adventure

    Finally, one of the best types of cruises to book in 2024 is an expedition cruise.

    Expedition cruises are trending because more travelers are seeking out epic bucket list experiences than ever before. Rather than just wanting to spend their vacation tanning on the lido deck of a cruise ship and lying on various beaches, expedition cruises are eager for active adventures.

    Some popular destinations for expedition cruises are Alaska, Iceland, the Galapagos Islands, the Amazon, and even Antarctica.

    Cruise Ships with Tourists in Antarctica

    If you’ve been dreaming of a once-in-a-lifetime trip like this, now is the best time to save money on expedition cruises (which can be pricier than your standard cruise.)

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  • Why You Should Book Your Winter Getaway To This Popular Beach Town In Mexico Right Now

    Why You Should Book Your Winter Getaway To This Popular Beach Town In Mexico Right Now

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    The Mexican Caribbean has always been a hugely popular tourist destination for American travelers.

    Boasting miles on miles of tropical coastline, a world-renowned hospitality industry, and luxurious resort zones, it is their go-to spot for relaxing and letting go of their mundane worries.

    Aerial Drone View Of Maroma Beach Near Playa Del Carmen, Mexican Caribbean, Mexico

    This year, however, this popularity seems to have soared to unprecedented new highs, leaving us wondering whether ‘shoulder season’ is even a concept still applicable to the region. That is particularly true in a trendy beach town that’s witnessing a record increase in bookings.

    Playa Del Carmen is already filling up for winter, and travelers are now being advised to book their year-end getaway as soon as possible before they’re left out:

    There Are Far Fewer Rooms Available This Winter Already

    city playa del carmen, mexican caribbean, mexico

    Following the start of the school year, it’s normally expected for bookings to decrease as families return home from the holidays and resort communities slow down operations in preparation for a much busier winter.

    In that sense, 2023 has been rather atypical, as numerous destinations in Quintana Roo, especially those straddling the Mayan Riviera, have been recording a high number of hotel reservations as early as September.

    A small beach town a short one-hour drive south of Cancun, Playa Del Carmen is no exception.

    According to data gathered by the Cancun Sun, the leading news source on everything Cancun, 40 percent of rooms in Carmen are already filled for the peak season, which comprises December 2023 through February 2024.

    A Resort Room With The View Of The Caribbean Sea, Mexico

    September has been traditionally less busy, but now reservations are beginning to build as early as the fall period, with vacationers anticipating the high winter prices and either taking trips during the shoulder months or booking their winter getaway well in advance.

    That seems to be the case for a majority, as highlighted by Osner Arjona, President of the Association of Small Hotels of Playa Del Carmen, who was quoted saying the town already has a ‘movement of reservations’ for late 2023 and early 2024.

    This trend is expected to intensify further in October, the busiest month for winter bookings, as prices begin to increase and undecided tourists are forced to either make a decision or miss out on their Mexican Caribbean experience altogether.

    Crowded Beach In Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

    The fact that bookings already sit at a whopping 40% should be perceived as worrying for those who plan on jetting off to Playa del Carmen this winter, as we are still early on into fall, and vacancy is already down significantly, as low as they would have been normally later in the year.

    There is simply no way of telling how much lower occupancy rates will be come October or November.

    The Longer You Wait, The Less Attractive Getaway Deals Will Be

    While Carmen is unlikely to sell out completely – there are far too many accommodation options to consider, from luxurious resorts to more affordable AirBnB listings – the main concern here is the fluctuation in prices.

    woman relaxing at a resort, unspecified location

    The higher the occupation rate, the more expensive accommodation gets, as a result of decreased competition and surging demand, so that is why you are advised to make those reservations right now, not only to secure the best prices, but also a beachfront spot.

    Still, you may be wondering why exactly Carmen is suddenly on everyone’s radar.

    Why Is Playa Del Carmen So Popular?

    Carmen has a high concentration of luxurious resorts, wellness centers, and entertainment venues that place it at the front of the Mexican Caribbean’s tourism offer, up there with Cancun and Tulum.

    In fact, one could even argue these three beach zones complement each other, with Cancun serving as the entertainment capital, Tulum the cultural heart and nightlife spot, and Playa Del Carmen the more laid-back alternative.

    Playa Del Carmen Portal Statue, Mexico

    When going abroad, Americans strongly favor destinations where it’s easy to go and where they can get pampered without worrying excessively about the complexities of planning an international trip. With only 11 days of paid vacation on average per year on average, they want an all-inclusive vacay.

    Carmen’s well-equipped resort zone gives them just that, with all of their favorite hospitality brands like the Hyatt, Thompson, Fairmont, and Marriott (just to name a few) having set up residence on the pristine coast.

    Other than the ancient Mayan ruins and indigenous culture, the Mexican Caribbean is often associated with the five-star beachfront properties and the thin, white-sand beaches bounded by turquoise-colored seas, all boxes Playa Del Carmen effortlessly ticks off.

    Aerial View Of The Playa Del Carmen Shoreline, Mexican Caribbean, Mexico

    As it is much smaller than Cancun, it has a reputation for being more exclusive, though it is not exactly as quaint as the lesser-known Akumal: thousands flock to its bars and beach clubs every weekend for a taste of the (in)famous local nightlife.

    It Is Extremely Safe

    Another reason why Carmen has been exploding in popularity is the high level of safety, following improvements made by the current administration, responsible for the revitalization of the tourist zone, and deployment of more police to critical sites.

    Mexican Police Officers Patrolling Playa Del Carmen, Quintana Roo, Mexico

    Due to the increased surveillance and zero-tolerance approach towards criminals, it is now one of the safest resort towns in Mexico, following years of being ill-reputed as a dangerous place for tourists.

    The Cancun Sun went as far as stating Carmen may be added to the ‘Magic Neighborhoods’ program, a designation awarded by the Mexican Ministry of Tourism in recognition of an area’s cultural, historical, environmental, or economic significance.

    The town will also be easier to get to from Cancun this winter, as it will be a stop on the Maya Train route, a new scenic railway linking all of the main tourist hotspots across the Mexican Caribbean, yet another factor that is certain to boost tourism and impact on hotel occupancy.

    All things considered, it’s best you book that getaway sooner rather than later.

    Read More:

    Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans For 2023 Starting At $10 Per Week

    How To Easily Earn Points For Free Travel

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  • Book Your Trip To Cancun Before March To Avoid This Major Problem

    Book Your Trip To Cancun Before March To Avoid This Major Problem

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    If you’re on the fence about booking that trip to Cancun now as opposed to later, in the low season, you may want to think about booking now. Whether it’s high prices holding you back or limited offers, we should remind you now is the best time to travel if you want to avoid a major problem. Beginning in March, sargassum seaweed will begin washing ashore again, and this time, the volume could be overwhelming.

    Aerial View Of The Northern Side Of Cancun Hotel Zone, Cancun, Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo State In Mexico

    Every year, the microorganism infamously batters the Caribbean coast, tarnishing the pristine nature of its white sand crescents and ruining the Mexican beach experience. Stepping over the smelly deposits as they make their way to a not-so-blue sea, painted a darker shade by the brown algae, is every traveler’s worst nightmare.

    Based on the latest data, those heading to Cancun in the near future might want to bring their flights forward by a few weeks to be on the safe side:

    Sargassum Season Will Be Worse This Year

    Beach Cleaner Removing Sargassum Seaweed From A Beach

    After battling the phenomenon for most of 2022, Cancun – and the wider Riviera Maya – is currently enjoying a sargassum-free winter. As local specialists have affirmed, winter is the perfect time to visit the region due to the strong winds blowing from the north that help keep the seaweed at bay, in spite of the warm temperatures known to boost its spread.

    Regrettably, the winds are fast-changing, and sargassum levels are bound to increase dramatically come spring. According to the newest report issued by Zofemat – an acronym for Zona Federal Maritimo Terrestre – 2023 will see a collection of algae equal to, or even higher than last year’s, with every major destination on the Riviera Maya likely to feel the impact.

    Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans For 2023 Starting At $10 Per Week

    Turquoise Colored Ocean And A Sandy Beach In Puerto Morelos, On The Caribbean Coast Of Mexico

    This is particularly worrying, seeing that, throughout 2022, around 37,000 tons had made landfall. As stated by Lourdes Várguez Ocampo, director of Zofemaet, the numbers up to December 31 were already exceedingly high, and expecting further occurrences, preparations for the upcoming ‘intense’ sargassum season are underway at this stage.

    What Can Travelers Expect Flying To Cancun After March?

    White Sand Beach In Cancun Hotel Zone, Cancun, Quintana Roo, Riviera Maya, Mexico

    In early 2022, the situation was so critical a popular beach in Playa del Carmen, a small resort town south of Cancun, was closed while cleaning was carried out. Beaches were still not completely shielded, and cleaners were routinely seen working round the clock to remove the excess seaweed. This year, they’re better equipped:

    The Government has invested heavily in new machinery to divert it, but despite their best efforts, Carmen is again battling a seaweed surge as early as January. Luckily, the sargassum arriving right now is reddish and lighter in nature, ‘easier to harvest’. From March, however, tourists should expect a return of the brown, foul-smelling version.

    sargassum beach stinky seaweed

    Playa del Carmen may be bearing the brunt of it, but neighboring hotspots like Puerto Morelos, Tulum, and of course, Cancun, are also set for record levels in spring. With this in mind, Ocampo notes the Quintana Roo Administration has budgeted 40 million Mexican pesos for a wide range of anti-seaweed measures.

    These may include sargassum barriers, ‘sandbonis’, and the so-called ‘sargaboats’, which collect the invasive microorganism before it makes it to land. Authorities are going above and beyond what is required to ensure vacationers do not face any kind of disruption, such as closed beaches, but it’s hard to say this far in advance whether that will be enough.

    Seaweed in trailor having been cleared from beach in Mexico

    Quintana Roo Takes Tourism Very Seriously

    One thing is clear: Quintana Roo takes tourism very seriously. Besides cordoning off the coast to maintain beaches in their pristine nature, the Government is adding new security forces to tourist spots in Tulum and deploying the National Guard to the soon-to-be-launched Maya Train to protect visitors from crime.

    Young Woman Pictured In Lake Bacalar, Bacalar, Quintana Roo, Mexico

    While Mexico can always crack down harder on violence, there’s only so much they can do when it comes to sargassum, especially when sea temperatures keep rising, the main factor behind algae reproduction. Every year it gets worse, and the four-month cycle for sargassum-free sunny breaks in the Mexican Caribbean keeps getting shorter.

    In the end, it’s up to you to decide whether traveling now and paying more for perfectly clean beaches and a turquoise-colored ocean is a trade-off you’re willing to go with. Alternatively, you could consider exploring this lesser-known destination in southern Quintana Roo that’s recently earned the nickname of ‘New Tulum’, and where seaweed is definitely not an issue.

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  • Why You Should Book Your Last Night Of Vacation Near The Airport

    Why You Should Book Your Last Night Of Vacation Near The Airport

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    No matter how many times you’ve been to the airport, the worry that you aren’t leaving early enough never seems to fade. It’s a shame to end a relaxing vacation by stressing about making it home. What if there is traffic? What if your transportation doesn’t show up? What if the airport is way busier than usual?

    All of the unknowns add up, and we naturally worry. However, there is a way to lessen the stress. A new trend among stress-conscious travelers is emerging, and it might just be the best way to end a vacation. By booking the last night of your vacation at a hotel near (or in) the airport, you greatly diminish the stress that comes along with making the trek back home.

    Here are 5 reasons why you should book your last night of vacation near the airport:

    Woman looking at her phone while resting hand on suitcase

    You’ll Avoid Traffic Problems

    If you’ve been plugged into the news lately, you probably know that traffic around Cancun’s airport has been crazy lately. Travelers headed to the airport last week got so desperate they began to ditch their taxis to finish the route on foot in an attempt to make it to their flights on time. While this is an extreme example, traffic can be a serious cause for concern when trying to make it to the airport on time. By booking your last night near the airport, you’ll cut down on the chance that traffic will make you miss your flight home.

    Heavy traffic in a city

    You’ll Already Be Packed

    We’ve all been there. Frantically jamming everything we can into our bags while the clock mocks us from across the room as we try to get out the door to the airport on time. Somehow it always seems more difficult to pack everything up when vacation is ending than it did before it started. If you opt to spend your last night of vacation in a hotel near the airport, you’ll be able to pack stress-free.

    You’ll be far less likely to accidentally leave anything behind, and you’ll be able to enjoy the process more while you think about how great of a vacation you just had. As a bonus, you’ll already be packed and ready to roll the next day before your flight, as you only need to set aside the essentials for the next day’s travels.

    Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans For 2023 Starting At $10 Per Week

    Woman packing her suitcase and checking off a list of luggage items

    Transportation Is Often Included

    Many hotels around the airport will include free airport shuttles as part of their nightly rate. Not only does this save you money, but it also takes the stress out of figuring out how you will get to the airport. Now you don’t have to shell out way too much money for a taxi, and you don’t have to coordinate anything. Just make sure to ask the concierge what schedule the shuttle follows, as it can vary from property to property. Most hotels will have a shuttle run at least twice per hour, starting well before the first flights of the day.

    Travelers giving luggage to an airport shuttle driver

    You’ll Save Money On Accommodation

    Spending the last night of vacation in a hotel closer to the airport will likely save you money on accommodation, depending on your vacation type. If you just spent a week at a beachfront resort, the airport near the hotel will undoubtedly be cheaper. To maximize your time at the nice resort, ask if the front desk can hold on to your luggage after checkout and see if they will allow you to enjoy the grounds until later in the afternoon before heading off to your airport hotel. Many properties are more than happy to provide this service, and you still enjoy the property without paying for another night.

    A family of three checks in at a hotel with a day pass

    Transportation Is More Dependable

    Staying near the airport guarantees you’ll be able to find a way there more efficiently and affordably. In bigger cities, this can equate to quite a bit of saving.

    Smiling-Taxi-Uber-Driver-Taking-Female-Passenger-To-Her-Destination

    Author’s Anectode

    I traveled to London in November and stayed in Canary Wharf. To get home, I planned to take the first flight out of Heathrow in the morning to avoid delays. Unfortunately, I hadn’t done enough homework, because in order to be at the airport 2 hours before my flight, my only option was a taxi. The first tube stop of the day I could take to begin the journey to the airport was far too late in the morning to be sure I would make my flight.

    If I had been able to take the tube, the trip would have cost about $15, and instead, I had to pay for a taxi that cost me over $100. Had I booked a hotel closer to the airport, I’d have saved myself some money and been able to sleep in a bit more.

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  • The Best Times To Book The Cheapest Flights Based On Where You’re Traveling

    The Best Times To Book The Cheapest Flights Based On Where You’re Traveling

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    How far in advance should you book your flights to get the best deal on airfare?

    New data from Kayak reveals the best times to book the cheapest flights, depending on where in the world you’re traveling.

    This online travel booking website aggregated data based on flight searches and bookings made in 2022 using the platform to identify the best times to book your flights.

    Woman looking at phone while standing in front of flight information board

    The data also revealed the best days of the week to travel for the best price on airfare: in 2022, flights departing on Thursday or Friday were the cheapest.

    When it comes to how far in advance you should book your flights, there’s no one answer; it depends on where you’re traveling to.

    Domestic flights and international flights to destinations in the Americas and the Caribbean can be booked with much less notice, while international flights to far-flung destinations like Europe and Asia should be booked well in advance in order to score the best deals.

    Here’s a breakdown of when to book your flights based on where you’re traveling:

    North America

    When to book: 3 weeks out

    For trips close to home, you don’t need to book your flight too far in advance in order to get the best price. In fact, by booking too far out, you may end up paying a premium.

    Booking your flight 3 weeks in advance for flights within North America offers the best deal.

    Within the United States, flights to New York City, Chicago, and Austin had the lowest average fares, according to the data from Kayak.

    Skyline of Chicago at dusk, flights concept

    Central America

    When to book: 2 weeks out

    Central America is an often-overlooked region that’s easily accessible from the U.S. and offers a rich variety of destinations for your next vacation.

    Adventurous travelers can explore Mayan ruins and colonial cities in Guatemala, go scuba diving and relax on the beach of the Bay Islands in Honduras, or discover lush waterfalls, jungles, and wildlife in Costa Rica.

    Since the best deals on airfare can be found just 2 weeks out, and flights from the U.S. are often very affordable, Central America is a great destination for last-minute getaways.

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    Yellow arch in Antigua, Guatemala, flights concept

    South America

    When to book: 3 weeks out

    For the best deals on flights to South America, 3 weeks out appears to be the ideal booking window.

    According to Kayak, these destinations in South America have the cheapest average airfare from the United States:

    1. Bogotá, Colombia: $534
    2. Medellín, Colombia: $542
    3. Guayaquil, Ecuador: $642
    4. Lima, Peru: $691
    5. Quito, Ecuador: $712
    Llama in front of Machu Picchu in Peru, flights concept

    Caribbean

    When to book: 4 weeks out

    Dreaming of a Caribbean getaway? The best time to book your vacation is about one month out in order to get the best price.

    These are the cheapest Caribbean islands for a budget-friendly vacation this winter.

    Jamaica Beach with palm tree over ocean

    South Pacific

    When to book: 3 months out

    While a trip to the South Pacific is not cheap, it’s a bucket list item for many people.

    You can save some money on your dream trip to Bora Bora or another South Pacific island by booking airfare 3 months in advance for the best deals.

    Tahiti luxury resort hotel in Bora Bora ,French Polynesia. Paddleboard leisure activity SUP paddle woman on active vacation in Tahiti, French Polynesia. Mount Otemanu summer holiday.

    Africa

    When to book: 5 months out

    Whether you want to explore the ancient pyramids of Egypt, go on safari in Kenya, or relax on the beaches of Zanzibar, the best time to book a flight to Africa is 5 months in advance.

    Elephant on safari in Africa

    Europe

    When to book: 8 months out

    If you have your eye on Europe, it’s best to plan in advance and book your flight 8 months out to save the most money.

    According to Kayak, these are the European destinations with the cheapest average airfare from the United States:

    1. Lisbon, Portugal: $708
    2. Reykjavik, Iceland: $718
    3. Warsaw, Poland: $747
    4. Copenhagen, Denmark: $749
    5. Krakow, Poland: $766
    Young woman looking at eiffel tower in paris france

    Asia

    When to book: 8 months out

    Asia is another destination that you should be planning well in advance. For the best price on your long-haul flight to Asia, the time to book is 8 months out.

    Mount Fuji At Lake Kawaguchiko With Cherry Blossom In Yamanashi, Near Tokyo, Japan, Southeast Asia

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  • Here’s Why You Should Book Your Last Minute Hotel Deals Now

    Here’s Why You Should Book Your Last Minute Hotel Deals Now

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    It’s never too late to find a last-minute deal, and Hotels.com has analyzed thousands of its hotel rates across the globe to identify the best times to take advantage of the cheapest accommodation. The booking site has identified two separate periods over the coming months to get the best last-minute hotel deals when booking right now. For what will probably be your last travel booking of the year, there’s no reason to pay expensive prices to enjoy the holiday season.

    traveling girls and their luggage in a hotel room

    Many people book their trips far in advance of the holidays to avoid being hit with the highest prices, but there are still some great deals that you can find close to the season. According to Hotels.com, nightly hotel rates are expected to dip over two separate time periods in December and January, with accommodation rates falling below $150 a night, but you will need to act now.

    “What’s great about this latest Hotels.com intel is that we’ve zeroed in on exactly when to travel for some of the best rates,” said Melanie Fish, spokesperson for Hotels.com, in a press release.

    Young joyful women expressing positivity, using map, vacation with bags, camera, making photo, cheerful emotions, great mood

    What Are The Best Times To Travel For Deals This Season

    Hotels.com pinpointed two separate times for traveling this season, where you’ll be able to score cheaper deals on accommodation below $150

    • The best time for deals this year is the weekend before Christmas: December 15 – December 20
    • The best time for deals next year is after the New Year holiday: January 3 – January 8

    Since most travel will be focused around Christmas and New year’s Eve, travelers will likely find cheaper accommodation rates in-between these dates. If you have the flexibility to travel during these times, you’ll find fewer people and lower prices. Hotels.com says that hotel rates can drop as much as $50-100 per night, which is a quarter or a half of what typical summer rates were – above $200 per night.

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    Happy backpacker traveller stay in high quality hotel

    When Is the Most Expensive Time To Travel This Year

    It will come as no surprise that New Year’s Eve weekend (30th December – 1st January) will see the highest hotel rates this winter. Hotels.com reports nightly rates in areas of the Caribbean, such as Turks and Caicos and the Caymans, are averaging above $800 per night, while top-rated ski destinations like Park City and Vail are more than $600 per night.

    Couple in pajamas resting near fireplace indoors, closeup. Winter vacation

    How To Find Last-Minute Deals

    • Branch Out From Luxury Accommodation: you can find some great deals on 2 or 3-star hotels that offer stylish and fantastic travel experiences. Check out the seasonal reviews of the hotels to find which ones will give the best value for your money.  
    • Make Filters Your Friend: when using booking sites, use the different filter options to find the best accommodation that suits your needs. You can filter by price and find select hotels that are offering better price cuts compared to others.
    • Shop Around: you might need to do some extra digging, but often the savings are worth it when you compare different destinations and hotels across different booking sites.
    Couple lying on bed holding up passports
    Beautiful smiling woman relaxing and drinking coffee on the balcony in the morning

    What Are Some Last Minute Deals Right Now

    Hotels.com analyzed average hotel rates in the app and has pulled together a recommendation of some popular domestic and international destinations that all fall below $150 for this cold shoulder season. From hot tubs in snow-covered terrains like Denver to Mai Tais by the pool in Puerto Rico, these 3-star and above locations will make a fantastic and memorable last-minute holiday without eating too much into your savings.

    relaxation on the beach, young man enjoying beautiful sunset in luxury hotel near swimming pool

    December

    January

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  • Here’s Why Travel Experts Say Don’t Book Flights On Your Mobile Phone

    Here’s Why Travel Experts Say Don’t Book Flights On Your Mobile Phone

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    The cost of travel has skyrocketed this year. After two years of a confusing pandemic, the rise in travel demand and low availability of staff resulted in inflated airfares across the board, but as travel experts have noted, those who are booking flights on their mobile phones are being hit the hardest, being more susceptible to paying more.

    Businessman Booking Flight On His Phone

    This is a particularly worrying statement, seeing that in the current climate, up to 48% of adults aged 20-40 in the United States shop on their phones – a far higher number than the global average of 34%. The data, obtained from a survey of 3,250 American customers carried out by Klarna, is precisely what has analysts concerned:

    The Hidden Dangers Of Drip Pricing When Shopping For Flights

    Young Woman Using Her Phone At The Airport

    Drip pricing is a term employed in the industry to refer to the infamous add-on fees on flights. While a much cheaper ticket fare is usually displayed on the initial page, this is generally a ‘starting price’, or merely the seat itself: hold luggage, in-flight entertainment, meals and seat selection all come at an additional, and usually crippling, price.

    During the purchasing process, as the customer proceeds in ticking boxes, adding their travel essentials or customizing their trip, the cost begins increasing dramatically. In fact, adding luggage on some flights can be more expensive than a standard Economy seat. Interestingly, heavy phone usage may be a contributing factor to the overcharging of some.

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    Young Woman Looking Distressed, Upset After Reading Something On Her Phone

    Pymnts.com, a website dedicated to analyzing the role of payments in new tech, the majority of travel service purchases were made on a mobile device in February 2022. As proved by Pymnts.com, more than half (51.4%) of travel purchases in the U.S. were made on mobile in February of this year.

    The data comprises the month of February alone, but we’re guessing the trend hasn’t reversed based on the record-breaking profits some airlines are reporting, and the role of mobiles. As early as 2021, a study conducted by Marketing Science confirmed shoppers are induced to make ‘suboptimal’ choices in ‘drip-pricing situations’.

    Female Traveler Booking Flights On Her Phone

    Travelers Are Less Likely To Compare Flight Prices In Drip-Pricing Situations

    They observed travelers usually compare initial prices between competing carriers as opposed to the final price, which is higher most of the time. Regarding this phenomenon, Shelle Santana, a co-author in the study and Assistant Professor of Marketing at Bentley University, stated companies adopting the ‘drip pricing’ strategy usually come out winning.

    Man Using His Laptop, Digital Nomad Concept

    The initial price is almost always lower than a competitor’s all-in price‘, Santana was quoted saying, alluding to the never-ending battle between low-cost, drip-priced airlines and other full service ones: ‘But once they start to add on amenities such as a checked bag, seat options, etc., that different in price (across firms) diminishes and sometimes reverses.’

    As Santana puts it, shopping on the phone influences customers to accept whatever extra charge has been applied to the original product, as re-starting the entire process, a decision that usually entails losing all information provided, or opening up a new tab to find cheaper options, is perceived as time-consuming and a bigger hassle (in a small screen).

    Young Female American Traveler Holding Up A U.S. Passport Case As She Uses Her Computer, International Travel Concept

    Booking flights can take several long minutes, as you add your name, personal information, passport details and make selections, so giving up halfway through over the cost of ‘add-ons’, under the notion there is no way to circumvent them, and that full-service airlines are always the costlier pick, is discouraging for many.

    Customers End Up Paying More Finalizing Purchases On Their Mobiles

    Attractive female passenger of airplane read news from networks via smartphone and wifi on board, young woman sending message on phone traveling by plane in first class connecting to wireless on phone

    The researchers were surprised to learn that, even after the final price had risen, customers buying tickets on their phones were extremely ‘unwilling’ to compare different providers: ‘consumers perceive high search costs associated with starting their decision process over, and they think they will save less money than they actually will’, added Santana.

    Just think for a sec: how many times have you switched between apps when booking a trip? There is the airline’s own app to account for, then there’s either Booking.com or AirBnB when it comes to accommodation, the calendar app, where you’ll need to check your own availability, and of course, flight-search tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner, among others.

    Traveler Observes Sunwing Airplane From Boarding Area At Airport

    That is a lot of tabs active on your phone browser simultaneously, and no matter how fast you are with your fingers, the chances of overlooking relevant information, or even forgetting that you had a secondary tab for comparison open in the first place is substantially higher. On larger screens, the decision-making process tends to be more comfortable.

    In being comfortable, it may help shoppers think clearly before reaching for their wallets. There is an even earlier study to corroborate this: back in 2018, the Journal of Marketing analyzed customer behavior from more than one million sessions on a shopping website, and their results inform us those who concluded purchases from their phones paid higher fees.

    Woman With Luggage At Airport

    Additionally, the higher conversion rate was far more noticeable with higher-priced products, a category comprising flight tickets. Concluding, Santana advised her fellow travelers to ‘always shop for travel on a desktop’: ‘I like to have several tabs open at once and toggle between them to make sure I understand price differences and drivers across firms‘.

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  • Why Fall Is The Best Time To Book Your Trip To New York City

    Why Fall Is The Best Time To Book Your Trip To New York City

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    With travel prices expected to rise for the winter vacation months and the shoulder season upon us, it looks like the fall is the best time to book your next adventure, whether it be international or domestic. And for all of you wanting to visit New York City now that the summer tourists have left, there’s a bunch of reasons why you should starting planning your trip in the near future.

    Here are some of the perks and best reasons why the fall months are the perfect time to book your trip to New York City.

    Central Park during autumn in New York City.

    Best Time To Book Your Flight To New York City

    If you’re worried about a big spike in flight prices for the last few months of 2022, from analyzing the trends it looks like October is currently the cheapest month to book that trip to New York City.

    We checked out the latest flight prices on Skyscanner, did a search for the “Cheapest Month” for flights from cities across the U.S. to New York and October came up as the best month. 

    We reported last month that New York City was the most expensive city for air travel in the U.S., but those prices are now dropping.

    the MET museum in New York lit up in the late afternoon in all its glory

    If you want to plan a December trip to New York City, we also recommend booking that flight in October to lock in the best price. New York City during the holidays is nothing short of magical, so know there are still ways to find the best prices for that trip.

    And according to Hopper’s Fall Shoulder Season guide, flight prices will be the cheapest when booked 3-6 weeks before your scheduled departure. This rule currently applies to booking domestic trips in the U.S. The average posted in Hopper’s guide on flights to New York City is $212, down $138 dollars compared to this summer. 

    So if you want to head to New York City for the holidays, check prices in early October (and set up a price alert!) to start the booking process. Price alerts can help you predict when the best window for booking is according to the price trends, and you’ll be able to grab that flight deal before prices rise again.

    woman holding a cup of coffee and scrolling through her phone on the New York City subway

    Hotel Prices Drop During November

    For hotels, a lot of prices will drop by end of October and through November, because it marks the end of the high season (or the beginning of the low season, depending on how you look at it!). Hotel prices will go way up for the last two weeks of December and into January, so try and lock those prices before they spike.

    Visiting New York in November means that you might see the first snow, wander around without all the big crowds, and experience get the tail end of the fall colors.

    taxis and crowd on 5th avenue new york during christmas season trees in lights

    Train Travel To New York

    Another great reason to book (and travel) to New York City during the fall months is to experience the foliage. On top of air travel, on the ground travel is ramping up to New York, with Amtrak recently adding routes from Canada as well as this New England city.

    A bonus about booking your trip to New York in October is that the summer rush is over, New Yorkers are heading back to the city from the countryside and things are getting back to New York time. With the summer tourists gone, you can enjoy the fall months with locals and experience the fall foliage.

    As of the time of writing, the Amtrak strike will not affect train routes to New York City.

    Intersection of Broadway and Spring Street in SOHO Manhattan, New York City

    New York City Travel Tips You Didn’t Think You Needed

    Here are some things to keep in mind the next time you visit New York:

    Broadway doesn’t have to be expensive: You don’t have to spend big $$ to see a Broadway show! Broadway is back big time and 2022 has seen some amazing shows so far. And, seeing these performances on the cheap has never been easier.

    The TKTS discount booth just reopened at Lincoln Center, which is where you can stand in line to get half-off Broadway tickets the day of the show. There’s also TodayTix, a handy app where you can book same-day Broadway tickets and even apply for the lottery to get cheap tickets.  

    NEW YORK CITY. The No. 7 subway train running between 33 Street and 40 street station. Empire State Building and New York skyline lit up in the background

    Don’t take Ubers everywhere: Getting around by ride-share apps like Uber might seem like the quickest way to get around New York City. But if you’re in town for more than a few days, consider traveling around by subway. The New York City MetroCard is just over $30 for 7 days of unlimited travel on the MTA, so you can get around all 5 boroughs for a week for the same price of about two Uber rides.

    Booking your hotel for shoulder season, and last-minute: When looking for the best hotel deals, it’s always a good idea to check third-party sites like booking.com as they post cheap last-minute hotel deals for any destinations.

    There’s a TON of free things to do in New York: Check beforehand for any events like free museum days before your trip so you can make your itinerary as budget-friendly as possible. There’s also so many free things to do in the city that are worth checking out. The fall months is also a great time for walking around, and one of the best ways to explore New York is on foot.

    Discover the city’s walk-in restaurants: Some of the best eats in New York City don’t require a reservation. Here’s a great article on the best walk-in restaurants in New York City.

    Brooklyn Bridge in New York City, blurred image of people walking on the bridge in the background.

    Read More:

    Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

    Travel Off Path’s Best Deals Of The Week For Your Next Trip

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