Summer Holidays 2019
Historically airlines always raise their prices in July, as do package companies and the low-cost airlines. It’s their peak time for travel so they really try to make the most of it. My best advice is always to plan ahead and book early. The prices only go in one direction so holding out for a sale or late deal never seems to work for the summer.
Travelling to Europe seems to be dramatically increasing in cost across the board. Maybe Greece and Turkey are the exceptions. Free child places and early booking discounts are available but can be hard to find and always seem to be on the already expensive trips. I will off course be on hand to help you try and find these deals. One thing to always think about within Europe are villa’s. They can offer great value, especially for larger families or groups. But the best ones always go quickly so you will need to move quickly.
With the ever-increasing prices in Europe long haul destinations can not only work out to be a new and more exciting option, but in many cases a cheaper one! I’m going to run through some of the best destinations and itineraries that might surprise you.
Asia is often ruled out by many because of rainy seasons. This is true in places like Phuket, Malaysia, Vietnam and India. However, there are a couple of exceptions to the rule. Bali and Koh Samui in Thailand are at their majestic bests in our summer. Low rainfall and temperatures in the 30’s mean they are the perfect places. Bali is a fantastic all-rounder. It has great culture, food and beaches. But not only will the cost of the hotels please you the cost of living when your there puts Europe well and truly in its place. Koh Samui has beautiful beaches and is a lively Island with great options for couples and families. Both can be combined with city stop overs in Hong Kong, Bangkok, Singapore or Kuala Lumpar to make the experience even better!
North America is always a winner in the summer. A fly drive through California must be one of the best trips I’ve ever done. The contrasts from day to day are just brilliant. One day you’re in the coolest city in the States, San Francisco, the next your hiking around Yosemite National Park, followed by whale watching in Monterey before soaking up the sun on the beaches of Cambria and Santa Barbara. Add to that Los Angeles or Las Vegas or both and it really is the ultimate road trip with something for everyone.
In the same area, focusing on the National Parks, is a wonderful road trip using Vegas as your base. Pick up a car a drive around Bryce Canyon, Zion NP before heading over to Monument Valley via Lake Powell. The drive then heads back to Vegas with a stop at the iconic Grand Canyon. A truly memorable trip.
Route 66 is what most people think off when discussing American fly drives. Two weeks of driving through the centre of the country, ticking states off as you go, visiting Amarillo and Albuquerque and getting a taste for the real America. Starting in Chicago and finishing in Los Angeles this trip can be so versatile and each one is different depending on what you want to do.
Canada is not to be forgotten either. Often misunderstood because of the distances involved and worries over lengths of stays and what to do. Let me sort all of that out for you. The national parks of Banff and Jasper are the perfect start, visiting the Glaciers, Lake Louise and then driving through the Rocky Mountains. If you are wanting to elevate this to trip of a lifetime status, then the Rocky Mountaineer train journey will certainly do this. When you get to Vancouver though don’t stop there, getting the ferry over to Vancouver Island and visiting Victoria and the little-known Tofino to do some bear watching are amazing highlights of any trip.
One thing to consider with North America especially is that it is great in June to. This can mean better prices, availability and not being as busy when you are there. So if you’re not tied to the school holidays I would always advise going in June to get the best weather and deal!
In Dubai, and the middle east in general, it is low season because the weather is so hot. But having been a couple of times at this time of year it certainly hasn’t put us off. From May onwards you get the best deals. May half term can be a great option as well. Most hotels will offer free half board and massively reduced rates, so places that you previously thought would be out of reach are now well within. This summer we are looking at staying in Ras Al Khaimah, which is one hour’s drive from Dubai. Here you will be able to stay in a top five-star hotel, all inclusive, direct flights with Emirates and like for like there is not anything that will get close in Europe.
Another superb option for a beach holiday is the Maldives. July in particular is one of its better months weather wise and for the perfect idyllic beach holiday there is nowhere better in the world. Luxury and relaxation beyond anything you will have experienced before. It’s the best snorkelling I’ve ever done, and the fact that you can just stroll out of your room onto the beach and start floating over the coral and abundant sea life is something unique to the Maldives. Although I would always recommend going all-inclusive in the Maldives as the costs in resort can be eye watering. However, there are some really good early booking discount and board upgrades already available to make it more affordable.
If you think that any more than a week is too much, then Sri Lanka is a great option to mix with the Maldives or on its own. I've been twice and toured around the Sri Lanka using a local guide. They can take you around this fascinating island visiting tea plantations, amazing scenery and at Yala National Park the chance to see the elusive Leopard on a safari. You can then stay in one of Sri Lanka’s many beach resorts or a short hour flight takes you to the Maldives as the perfect twin centre.
So please get thinking and let's get imaginative and let me help you come up with the best Summer Holiday you’ve ever been on. The earlier the better and maybe the trip you've always dreamt of might be possible.
I will be posting some itineraries in more detail on my Facebook page over the coming days so make sure you like my page to keep up to date.