December Newsletter

As December whizzes by and 2024 fast approaches, I want to discuss the ideal timing for planning and booking a trip. Gone are the days when you could effortlessly seize a last-minute bargain for flights or accommodations, especially if you have fixed dates and a specific destination in mind. The optimal timeframe for most trips is around 8-9 months before your intended travel date. However, if you plan to visit a popular destination during peak travel seasons, it's advisable to start even earlier. Delaying your planning until the last minute often results in higher prices and limited options.

I definitely believe in being proactive and planning ahead to ensure the best experience possible, after all I want to make my travel budget stretch as far as possible, for as long as possible and enjoy some great experiences along the way. So, I am currently putting the finishing touches to all my personal summer 2024 travel plans

This month, as well as enjoying all that the Christmas season has to offer, I have been prepping for my upcoming adventure to Africa. I've been checking items off my packing list, organised my visas, visited the travel health clinic to make sure that my vaccines are up to date, and getting my anti-malarial medication. I have reviewed my annual travel insurance policy to ensure it provides adequate coverage for this particular trip, obtained the necessary foreign currency for my travel expenses and lastly, I have been breaking in my new walking boots, so they'll be comfortable and reliable for exploring Africa's incredible landscapes.

If you're interested, I will be documenting my journey on my website through blog posts. Additionally, I'll be sharing regular updates and visuals on Instagram. I am VERY excited as this will be my first time exploring this region of Africa.

Travel News and Stories​​

This article reviews when the best time for booking flights is. On the whole they make some good points, but I disagree with their conclusion that domestic travel should be booked 1-2 months out. I have never found this to be true, flights generally just get more expensive the closer to the date of travel, especially in this post Covid period when demand outstrips seat availability. The best way to get a good value flight is to collect airline loyalty points / dollars and start looking early. I personally try to avoid booking with consolidators as they add a whole extra layer of fees and complications!

This is the best time to book your flight

​This article also looks at the best time to buy flights and debunks the myth that booking on certain days of the week yields cheaper flights.

When is the best time to book flights?

Travel Inspiration

​Continuing with the over tourism theme from last month, here are some more ideas for avoiding the crowds

Lesser-known cities to put on your radar in 2024

Maybe December is too overwhelming and you are looking to escape in January? Here are some ideas that go above and beyond the “fly and flop” all-inclusive!

The 20 best places to visit in January