Éclat Travel's Blog

Posts Tagged ‘2011 travel’

What with rising gas prices, natural disasters seemingly everywhere, and unrest in parts of the world it’s enough to make some people want to just hold up in the back yard with a tent and a barbecue for the family vacation this summer and call it good.

Villa Dubrovnik

If, however, that is not your idea of a proper holiday and you are still tempted to forge ahead with your vacation plans this year, here are five very good reasons to travel now, and why using a travel pro to arrange the details is one of the smartest things you can do to maximize the value in your vacation and minimize the risks.

1. Sometimes waiting to purchase travel is the worst thing you can do. Prices can and do go up (Continental and United have already announced fare increases).
2. Availability at your favorite hotels, cruises, and attractions sell out quickly.
3. Incentives are often available when you book early. A great travel advisor has access to unadvertised specials and incentives, and knows how to get you the most vacation value for your money.
4. Yes, gas prices are rising, but there are still ways to enjoy a great vacation and not spend a fortune. When you’re building a custom vacation you have the flexibility to build it any way you want to. One cost-saving idea is to consider building your vacation around emerging destinations that may be better deals than well-established areas. And if you’re not quite sure about that, try visiting a popular destination in its off-season when rates are lower. Added benefits to traveling during the off-season include better availability, fewer tourists, and lower costs for attractions.
5. And, finally, the best reason to book your travel plans now is that tomorrow may never come. I’m a firm believer in valuing today because we never know what tomorrow will bring. Ask yourself, “if not now, when?”

Blue Mosque

If you’ve “always dreamed” of going somewhere, or doing something special, start planning it now – it’s exciting and fun, gives you something positive to look forward to, and you’ll be glad you did. And, if you have the expert guidance of a travel professional, we will be able to help you find exclusive offers, unique destinations, and provide savvy travel advice that will make your trip exciting and memorable.

Contact me for a free custom travel quote.

Cheers!

Cheryl
Custom Travel Specialist
Cheryl@EclatTravel.com
www.EclatTravel.com

A sluggish travel market means great travel deals will continue for consumers who do decide to take a vacation in 2011. Here’s how to make the most of a depressed travel market.

What’s 2011 going to look like? A lot like 2010. 
Dr. Suzanne Cook, Sr. Advisor US Travel Association

2011 will be a better, but not a great year for the travel industry. Among the top trends sited by Cook are:

• Airfares, gasoline and hotel prices are edging up slowly. Very slowly.
• As of September 2010, travel prices are up 4.2%.
• More people have stated an intention to travel in 2011.
• Alternative travel options continue to grow.
• International air prices and demand are increasing.

What does this mean for the travel consumer? It means that until the economy drastically improves, which according to this survey, will not be until at least 2014, those who can afford to and choose to travel will continue to find great deals through 2011. With a few minor adjustments to the way you view your travel options, you can make 2011 a great year for your dream vacation.

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