2023 Travel – Are You Ready?

Travel is back!!! And yes, it’s back with a vengeance! If you travelled during the last holiday season, you can testify that most flights were fully booked, and airports were busy as ever. So while we were all thrilled to return to a bit of normalcy, travel in 2022 was quite unstable.

As for my family, we were fortunate on all the trips we had last year. Apart from one car rental hiccup, everything went smoothly regarding flights, accommodations and tours. We had some bad weather days but worked around them with the tour company. Unfortunately, some people had awful travel experiences post-pandemic.

I am excited for 2023 travel; even though inflation is hitting everyone, people are planning to travel! Are you one of those who can’t wait to venture out and explore? Well… here are a few pieces of advice.

Plan Ahead

There are cases where last-minute travel unavoidable, but leisure travel should not be one of them. Waiting for the last minute to book a flight is more likely to land you higher prices, awkward departure times and routes, and even the dreaded middle seat. Plan NOW if you want to travel this summer and onwards. Airline ticket prices are likely to still climb and most likely faster than the overall inflation. It is time to plan your travel budget and stick with it.

Tip: Use Google Flights for price prediction and any other travel booking sites which uses price prediction tools that can display the historical average price for your travel dates. It will indicate whether the current fare is more expensive or cheaper than the historical trend.

Visit during Shoulder Season

If you are flexible with your schedule, this is your best shot to get the best experience at a destination. Fewer crowds make a lot of difference, and you witness how locals live their day-to-day lives. Locals are also more receptive to requests when there is less pressure from impatient tourists. Some destinations offer good weather, the best value for your money and the best local tour experience. And most importantly, the money you spend will help local businesses during off-peak season.

Tip: This is also your best shot to score a reservation at popular restaurants (Three Star Michelin experiences).

 

Keep an Open Mind about where to travel

I get it; you have a travel bucket list ( I have one, too). And I am pretty sure that most of those destinations are some of the busiest cities, the most significant landmarks, the most visited wonders of the world and famous national parks. But think differently this time and check out off-the-beaten-path destinations. 

Be Nice, Be Kind and Realistic!

 Yes, travel is back, but remember that many workers in the hospitality industry have been overworked. Also, some places need more time to prepare for the influx of tourists, so your kindness and patience will come a long way.

Plan Sustainable Travel. 

Sustainable travel has risen since people have started to look at and understand what our world is going through, and what they may leave behind for the next generation. It is simple, be eco-conscious with your decisions in planning your trip. It is a game-changer in the travel industry, and I suggest merely looking at how you can travel sustainably (I will write about this topic soon). 

A few examples of how to travel sustainably:

• Pick certified sustainable tour operators, accommodations and all other travel services.
• If you have to fly, try to pick the most direct route.
• Support local communities and their businesses 
• Visit places like you are a local; treat the place and the people with respect.
• Leave only footprints, take only memories.

Get Travel Insurance

Most of us pack too much on our luggage for vacation, but forgot to pack a travel insurance. There are so many reasons why it is a must to get one, but one thing for sure, it covers your vacation investment. Check online and you will be surprise how affordable it is! My family has been using Travel Guard for the longest time.

Travel. Learn. Evolve.