Image via: @chrystalsaintclair
Due to the global pandemic, the whole world came to a halt in 2020. Many of our favourable activities like meeting up with friends and family, going out for dinners and drinks, travelling and exploring new countries, sadly came to an abrupt stop. Now that lockdown is a distant memory, we are all looking to create as many experiences as possible because more than anything, I think we were taught a life lesson, life is short and we really should live it to its fullest. Everyone has their own definition of what happiness is for them but for me mine is travelling.
So I am going to share with you some of the websites and apps I use when planning a trip abroad, which gives luxury yet affordable.
Let’s talk flights!
Sky Scanner
it’s the ‘compare the market’ of flights, the app gives you the ability to compare airline prices in one place, limiting the hassle of opening multiple tabs and increasing cookie usage. The website/app enables you to use filters in order to narrow down your search by price, duration and much more.
Visit: https://www.skyscanner.net/
Kayak
The best way to use the app is by going straight to the explore page. The explore pace has already given you the cheapest flights to a number of destinations along with dates. If none of the options are what you are after you have the ability to narrow down your search to find just what you’re after. There is an interactive map on the website so you can find the best locations and prices whilst comparing distances.
Visit: https://www.kayak.co.uk/
Hopper
Hopper is an app, not a website so in order to use this application a smartphone is encouraged. The app uses historical data to predict when prices will be at their lowest and also has the ability to notify you when the best time to book is.
Visit: https://www.hopper.com/
Let’s talk hotels!
Chantal’s advice with regards to hotels:
– Be picky!
– Do your research!
– Use the sights I’ve suggested below to pick and book your hotel but please do ensure you have researched the hotel and location, I personally take a look at reviews on trip advisor, google or TikTok.
Hotel tonight
Hotel tonight offers last minute deals, when I say last minute I mean tonight, tomorrow and within the next seven days. The app allows you to compare a wide selection of accommodation, I recommend using the filter to specify what you’re after but also using google and trip advisor to check the ratings before booking. The discounts available on the app are great for European trips.
Visit: https://www.hoteltonight.com/
Expedia
Old but gold, the website has a considerable amount of options to choose from with the ability again to narrow down your search to find exactly what you’re looking for. The site shows you the amenities the hotel provides, but also things to explore in and around the area. Depending on the hotel some of the options available include ‘reserve now, pay later’ which can be really beneficial. The website allows you to see what rooms are available, price differences of the rooms. I do recommend before booking your hotel check reviews for more information.
Visit: https://www.expedia.co.uk/
Let’s talk combination!
BA Holidays
I highly recommend taking a look at British Airways Holidays, if you’re after a full package deal, though we know they are not discount specialists. BA Holidays tends to pair unsold flight inventory with empty hotel rooms; offering some great discounts, for a European city break or even a Caribbean beach holiday. It also gives you an opportunity to collect Avios which can be beneficial when booking another holiday in the future.
