Here are some tips from experts on how to get the best value for your trip this summer, in the face of rising inflation and many other inconveniences.
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Pay attention to traveler reviews< /strong>
Tips from other vacationers are invaluable when planning your next trip. Reviews can provide useful information about top attractions, including which ones to avoid, what is the best time to visit to avoid crowds, and maybe even how to get a cheaper ticket.
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Use Local Sources
Locals are always the best source for authentic and economical vacation. Make an effort to learn a few basic phrases in the language of the country you are traveling to, — this will make it easier to have sincere conversations with residents who know “fish spots”.
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Consider booking everything separately
For many, ready-made tour packages — often the only right option both financially and in terms of experience, but convenience tends to come at a higher cost. Don't be afraid to go beyond these ready-made offers and try to book everything individually. If you're patient, you'll be able to find economical options as well as more freedom of choice.
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Buy your essentials ahead of time
Many essentials, such as sunscreen and insect repellent, are more expensive in a foreign city or country, especially if you're shopping in a tourist area or airport. Therefore, buy them in advance. Be sure to check what baggage allowance is indicated on your ticket — most airlines have learned to charge quite a lot of money for any overweight. It's a good idea to weigh your suitcase before leaving for the airport to make sure you're on the right track.
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Look for a self-catering apartment
Today it is quite easy to find and book an entire apartment or even a villa when going on vacation, as an alternative to the usual hotel accommodation. If you decide to go this route, make sure everything you need to cook in the kitchen is included in the price, otherwise you will still have to dine out and naturally spend more.
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Compare airfare prices
When you have already chosen where to fly on vacation, compare the cost of tickets on different sites, sort out the fares . It is worth noting that it is usually cheapest to book flights on Sundays, while Tuesdays and Wednesdays are usually the cheapest to fly. Of course, the cases are different, depending on the destination and the airline.
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Prefer all-inclusive meals
If you've settled on a package deal from your tour operator, consider choosing an all-inclusive hotel. This may seem like a more expensive option at first, but spending on food and drink while on vacation — both on site and in local restaurants — will still be 1.5–2 times higher than prepaid at home in all inclusive rubles. Some destinations also offer included tours and entrance fees to museums and attractions.
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Leave some room for fantasy
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When planning your vacation, try to leave some room for impulsive, last-minute decisions. Suddenly, an unexpected idea of u200bu200ban excursion with new friends will turn up on the spot, or, conversely, there will be bad weather on the day of your planned boat trip. In these circumstances, tickets with free cancellation can be very useful and relatively cheap.
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Count everything carefully
Many people think that by traveling within the country, and even by car, you can save a lot. Look, take into account all possible expenses, for example, for gasoline, for the railway, accommodation at the famous Black Sea resorts… Such a vacation is often more expensive than overseas. Well, everyone can evaluate the ratio of fatigue/satisfaction on their own.
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Be sure to purchase travel insurance
Purchase an insurance policy immediately after booking. For example, in case you have to cancel your trip. Your policy will also cover emergency medical expenses and provide you with financial protection against the loss or theft of luggage and belongings. Depending on the direction and duration of the trip, the set of insurance options may vary.