How to Choose the Perfect Holiday Destination
Around 40% of Americans take a vacation every year, whether it’s jetting off to a far-flung country or visiting another state.
Planning your vacation is exciting as it lets you explore somewhere you’ve never been, bond with your loved ones, and finally, unwind. Perhaps you’re planning a vacation, but you can’t decide where to go.
Sound like your situation? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here is how to choose the perfect holiday destination.
Outline Your Budget
Aside from browsing listings for DVC, you must factor in your budget. This will determine how much you can spend on hotels, which flights you can take, and the dates. For instance, avoid peak times such as summer because that’s when kids are on break.
Further, not every destination costs the same, so if you’re on a budget then don’t book a trip to London, which is notoriously expensive. And if you’re traveling with a group, then agree on an average budget so you can find holiday destinations that won’t break the bank.
Consider the Time of Year
When choosing a holiday destination, you must consider the time of year. Decide whether you want a week carving the Alps or lazing around on a beach in the Mediterranean.
Then, you can research the climate in your desired destination and see whether it’s ideal for you and the group. For instance, if you want to visit India but book a vacation in June, then you’ll be stuck indoors during monsoon season. Because of this, be vigilant in your research and flexible so the weather doesn’t ruin your trip.
New or Old Destination?
Another tidbit of holiday destination advice is whether you want to visit somewhere not or revisit a beloved country. There are many instances when visiting an old spot is desirable, especially if you have choosy kids. Plus, you already know what the weather is like, the activities on offer, and accommodation, which will save you valuable time.
Ask For Recommendations
Our holiday destination guide wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the importance of getting recommendations.
Ask family and friends who have recently been on vacation whether they know the perfect country or city. Further, ask the people you’re traveling with whether they have any insights into a certain country or if they want to go somewhere specific.
Get Inspiration From Social Media
A fantastic place to seek inspiration is from social media, especially travel bloggers. Check out highly visual platforms like Instagram so you get a taste of what the destination is like. You should also use hashtags and see similar searches in the drop-down menu.
Another great place to search for dream vacations is Pinterest. Many users post images and include a list of things to do when you arrive, great for getting their recommendations. And because it’s visual, you can share the photos with your traveling group to decide whether it suits your taste.
Then, once you’ve done your research, create a board that you and your friend can return to.
Consider Everyone’s Interests
One of the top holiday destination tips is to consider everyone’s interests.
Figure out whether your group wants a laidback vacation or one packed with activities. Once you have a list of the desired pastimes, then research your list of potential destinations and see whether it’s a good match. This will help you narrow down the list and go on the vacation of a lifetime.
You should also consider the destination’s cuisine. Sure, every country will have cheeseburgers, but if you’re fanatic about a particular food then that could change your travel plans. For instance, pizza-lovers should visit Sicily to experience authentic Italian cuisine.
Decide on the Length of Your Trip
The length of your trip will determine where you go and the activities available. For instance, if you’re traveling for a week, then stay in a particular region or city. This will save valuable time and let you truly soak up the spot you’re in.
If you’ve got a month free, then cast your net further and explore a far-flung country. Then, you can figure out how to stretch your budget and experience as much as you can within the timeframe.
Check Whether Visas Are Needed
On your hunt for the perfect location, you should research whether visas are needed, especially as this can be costly. For instance, Nepal is an affordable country to explore, but its visas can be expensive and there is often a lengthy application process. Because of this, you must plan so you’re certain that the visa will be granted in time of your arrival.
Stay On Top of Current Affairs
Although many forget to do this, it’s important to check what’s happening at your desired destination. For instance, check whether there have been any recent terrorist attacks and if there’s a high crime rate.
You should also check whether the country is suffering an economic crisis or strike as it will determine how safe the area is for tourists. Or certain areas may not be open to foreigners.
Find the Perfect Holiday Destination Today
Hopefully, after reading this article, you can find the best holiday destination for you and your loved ones.
Start by outlining your budget, consider the destination’s weather, and whether you want a new or old experience. You should also ask around for recommendations, seek inspiration from social media, and check whether visas are needed before you book your flights. Happy travels!
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