Tips for Planning the Perfect Vacation

Planning a vacation can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. From choosing the perfect destination to finding the best flights, there are several factors to consider to ensure a memorable and stress-free experience. Here are some of our best tips for planning the perfect vacation.

When to Travel

Traveling to your destination during the ideal season is critical. Check to see when the destination has its rainy season or is there extreme cold or intense heat in winter and summer. If your schedules allow, traveling off-peak season can save you money and help you avoid the crowds.

How to Select Your Destination

Consider the travelers’ interests and preferences. What are the goals for a particular trip? Is it relaxation, adventure activities, or experiencing city life? Your budget should also be a consideration. This can guide you in not only selecting a destination but also in the duration of your trip.

How Long to Stay in Each City

This one is always a big question, especially for those that want to see as much as possible on a trip. Don’t rush through each city, it will not be enjoyable. My rule of thumb is to, generally, spend at least 3 nights in each city. Besides seeing the main attractions I always recommend some afternoons at leisure to wander the streets, have time for a gelato or shopping for local goods. Don't forget to account for travel time between destinations as this quickly eats up your days.

What Activities Need a Tour Guide

Not all sightseeing requires a tour guide but having a guide can enhance your experience significantly. A walking tour with a knowledgeable local guide will bring the city to life. These guides are a wealth of information, they will enlighten you with history and stories about the city you are visiting. All the tours we offer are on a private basis so our local guides customize them based on the travelers and their interests.

How to Find the Best Flights We often see a price roller coaster when it comes to flights, up and down all week. Unfortunately, there is no exact science to finding the best flights but here are a few tips: We often see that flying on a Tuesday or Wednesday offers the best pricing. As far as how far in advance to purchase flights, as soon as they become available (11 months before travel dates), is usually when we see the lowest prices. They slowly rise from there. For more on flights see How and When to Book Flights for Best Pricing.

There is a lot more that goes into planning a vacation, but these tips can ensure a well-organized and enjoyable trip. Need help planning your next vacation? I would be honored to design your customized itinerary – email me to get started.

At Distinct Vacations we partner with in-country travel suppliers allowing us to offer out-of-the-ordinary, non-Googleable, local experiences with premium service throughout your vacation.

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