Are You Waiting For That Bargain?

It is that time of year again. School holidays, factory shutdowns, call it what you like but this is the time that everyone wants to get away.  The last couple of weeks I have taken so many calls from people who are “desperate” to get away at “anytime” however, when you give a date or duration, you find they can not travel then – I thought you could go “anytime?.”

I understand that people are tied to certain dates (my hubby is) but why are you waiting to book? Do you think that bargain is out there? I remember so well years ago you could pick up that holiday with just a few weeks to go and get it at a great price but these times are no longer here. For a start the travel market has not so many companies selling as years ago and the Americans are back – they dont wait for bargains – they book and we see the availability that was there has gone, and very quickly.

So many people ask me when is the best time to book? I think you all know that the booking early rule is for me! If you are planning to travel in the School holidays, have that bucket list destination, really want that cabin grade or that cabin, want to visit a certain destination then please book now. There are some smashing incentives to get you to book early from low deposits, on board credit, free car parking or free coach travel, free drinks packages or even buy now get one free.

Yes, there are times when you will see offers after you have booked. The following month or so the cruise line will bring out a drinks package which you could not get when you booked.  Please be aware that in nine times out of ten, that base price of the cruise will have gone up so it isn’t much of a bargain as you thought. There are of course sometimes a few that do get through the net and are cheaper which you can decide what is the best course of action to follow, but please do not think these are there all of the time and especially not in peak holiday times.

Another thing to watch out for in the late’s market, is that a lot of the cabins will be on a “guarantee” basis. You book at that price and will find out your cabin number and position closer to departure time. You really do not have a leg to stand on when it comes to allocation of cabins – if you do not like where it is – tough!

So, is there a time when you can really grab a bargain late? Sometimes there are some smashing river cruise deals but usually on dates which you may not have wanted to travel in the first place. You may pick up a good deal in the Med in April or November – basically at the end or beginning of the season when ships are repositioning.

I do hate to be that “killjoy” I want you all to enjoy that fabulous cruise, so please book early OR when you say you can travel at anytime – mean it!

Till next time x