Top Tips For Taking A Last Minute Break

With the world in the grip of recession, fewer people are looking to travel abroad. However, what many may not realise is that the credit crunch can equal affordable holidays, and travel companies are falling over themselves to get your business.

We have some top tips for finding those affordable, last minute breaks.

Bag a bargain break

If you're looking to head off at the last minute, you can't beat the Internet for top offers. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or a beach lover, there are endless websites where you can find a holiday or hotel that suits you.

Some expert advice

"To keep prices as low as possible, budget airlines make sure their best deals are available on their own websites," says Cath Urquhart, author of The Holiday Handbook.

"It's also worth signing up to airlines' newsletters, which alert you to special offers," she says. "Check prices a day or two either side of your intended dates to see if that produces cheaper deals."

Top tip: Make sure you're dealing with a secure server when booking online. Note any booking reference number you're given and print out the booking confirmation page.

Research is crucial

If you're acting as your own travel agent, the key to finding the best deals is research. Have a look online for first-hand recommendations and reviews. Lots of people write about their holiday accommodation and experiences, so they're a great place to start.
Trip Advisor is a great online resource for finding out if that hotel you're about to book is a palace or the pits. Claiming to host over 20 million reviews within its pages, we'd be very surprised if you don't find some customer feedback for your prospective hotel.

Consider the following before you book:

• Location - how near or far is your hotel to the town centre or beach?
• Views - do the rooms overlook sparkling waters or a stinking rubbish tip?
• (Non) Smoking room - make sure you choose the right one for you when booking!
• Creature comforts - Does the hotel offer tea and coffee? Does your room come with a bath and/or shower?
• Safety - if taking valuables with you, ask if your room has a safe, or whether there's a hotel safe that you can use.

Book a package holiday

If you don't fancy booking a DIY holiday, head to the package tour specialists - your friendly high-street travel agent.

Visit a few and see what deals they can find, and then use the cheapest offer as a bartering tool to see if any are willing to drop the price still further. In today's economic climate, travel agents are so desperate, many are throwing in extras such as all inclusive meals or accommodation upgrades just to get the sale.

And don't forget the travel agents' online portals - you could slash the high-street price even further.

Don't forget your travel insurance

It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of booking a holiday, particularly if it's last minute, but don't forget to protect yourself with travel insurance. Travel insurance can save you a fortune should anything go wrong, as it can cover your for medical expenses, lost luggage, delays, cancellations and more.

Our Quick Guide to 2009's Holiday Hot Spots

1) Turkey: A mix of picture perfect villages, sumptuous seafood, cosmopolitan cities and great weather.

2) Cambodia: Everything that Thailand has to offer but without the crowds.

3) Iceland: This once astronomically expensive country is now an affordable option in the credit crunch.

4) Bulgaria: Gorgeous beaches and reasonably priced hotels make Bulgaria the ideal bargain break.

5) Ireland: Perfect for getting away from it all when you're short on time.

6) Poland: Fairytale castles, baroque architecture and a busy nightlife await you in the heart of Europe.

7) Galapagos Islands: A lunar-looking archipelago in the Pacific Ocean with weird and wonderful wildlife.

8) South Africa: Make the most of the strong pound, lack of jet lag and golden sands.

9) Dominican Republic: An affordable way to experience Caribbean delights.

10) Panama: Make like James Bond in Quantum of Solace with a mix of Central American glamour and adventure.

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