Saving enough money for your next vacation might seem like an insurmountable task. Have you decided to explore the possibilities of budget travel? Be careful! The word "budget" does not always mean that you will save money - or that you will enjoy your vacation.
Budget Airlines
Advantages
• You can save a lot of money.
• Safety is on par with the bigger airlines, as the inspection process is the same, no matter how much you pay for your flight.
Disadvantages
• Flights often land at secondary airports, which may be several miles from your destination.
• Cancellations are common on budget airlines. You could end up stranded and trying to make arrangements for a new flight.
• Discount airlines may charge a lot more for checked or overweight luggage, insurance, and other perks provided at a lower cost (or free) by the larger airlines.
• Inflight services and amenities may be minimal.
All-Inclusive Resort Packages
Advantages
• Round-trip airfare is often part of the cost, so there are no hidden surprises. Since the resorts deal directly with airlines and other transportation providers, they can negotiate better price points.
• Meals and drinks are usually provided, eliminating the need to search for local restaurants or buy meals.
• Sports equipment such as scuba gear is usually provided. Free instruction is often included.
Disadvantages
• Since everything is onsite, there is little or no interaction with local culture and customs, unless the resort includes local tours in its rate.
• Some resorts with cheap packages charge for extras. Read all brochures and advertising so that you know what to expect. Weigh the cost of extras and compare with other resort offerings.
• Poorly-maintained or improperly fitting sports gear can cause accidents or even death.
• Courses (such as scuba diving) may cost extra; read the fine print.
• If tipping is included in the total price, you do not have the opportunity to reward good performance and staff might not be as attentive at this type of resort.
Cruises
Advantages
• Meals, unbottled water, and coffee are free. Some cruises provide complimentary wine.
• Many onboard activities, including entertainment, are part of the total cruise cost.
• You don't have to worry about planning activities or getting lost in an unfamiliar neighborhood. Everything is nearby; activities are organized by the cruise company; you can relax and enjoy your vacation.
• Once you unpack, you are ready to have fun. You completely avoid the tedium of packing/unpacking for every leg of the journey.
• Cruiselines often work directly with airlines to provide packages that include inexpensive round-trip air transportation.
Disadvantages
• Living quarters are cramped. Unless you really get along with your companion, your patience may be put to the test.
• Chances to explore are minimal, because you will be spending most of your time onboard.
• Shore excursions will not allow you to travel far from the dock for sightseeing activities.
• Port taxes and fees are usually not included in the cost of a cruise.
• There is typically an extra charge for bottled water, fancy coffee, gourmet meals, and alcohol.
• Salon and spa treatments are usually quite costly.
• Laundry and dry-cleaning services are fairly expensive.
• Internet access is pricey and notoriously slow.
Do some of these facts surprise you? Weigh all the options before you make a decision that you might regret later.
Part of planning a vacation is deciding how you will get to your destination. If you have opted to fly, be sure to check Kathy's latest eBook, Top Tips for Travel by Air - Over 300 Targeted Travel Tips. 1000Tips4Trips is also a good place to visit. You can search through over 1500 travel tips about flying, cruises, pre-travel preparations, and more.
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