Salema Beach, Portugal by F H Mira (Creative Commons)
From Groupon to travel agents to online comparison sites, there has never been a more competitive time to sell holidays. The upshot of that is when you’re looking for European package holidays or last minute deals, you have a variety to choose from whether you want relaxation in Greece, culture in Italy or exuberance in Croatia.
Finding the perfect last minute holiday
A bargain is only a bargain if you enjoy the end product. With that in mind, finding the right late deal is just as important as getting the best one. Here are a few tips to get you on the right track:
Flexibility – If you can choose from any date and time then you are in the best position to find a bargain. Anti-social mid-week hours are always going to have less demand, and consider waiting until the schools are back for significant discounts.
Weather – It might be a tempting deal to go to Northern Europe but be sure to check the temperatures across the board. The likes of Athens, Madrid and Nicosia will be significantly warmer than Oslo, Warsaw and Saint Petersburg.
Options – From all-inclusive to self-catering, there are always likely to be a number of possibilities for your late summer break. Don’t pigeonhole yourself but open up to hotels, villas or apartments to give yourself a better chance.
Price Comparison – Often it’s easiest when you have everything in front of you and websites like TravelSupermarket and Ice Lolly give you that chance when looking for late deals.
European package holiday options
Sometimes it’s a bargain to book separately but it can be cheaper to book it all in one. Not just cheaper, but easier as well. Whether you want a lazy beach holiday, an eclectic nightlife or a sightseeing trip there are plenty of options. These include:
Balearic Islands – One of the most popular, cheapest and warmest destinations within Europe, the islands have great beaches for sunbathing and swimming. The consistent warm weather means you can rely on that at least, all you need to do is decide whether you’re a Ibiza, Mallorca or Menorca kind of group.
Canary Islands – Another idea that gives you a diverse range of destinations is the Canaries. Nightlife to watersports to nature trails, whether you are a Tenerife, Gran Canaria or Lanzarote lover there are plenty of cheap deals to be had across the internet.
Portugal – Another destination that tends to come in packages is a trip to Portugal. Whether it’s Porto, the Algarve or Albufeira there are some lovely areas of the country perfect for last minute sun.
Cala Mondrago on Mallorca’s East Coast
Checklist time
Once you find where to go and when to do it, be careful not to fall into the trap of extras stacking up. Everything from airport parking to car hire to money should be organised and sorted well in advance. Don’t forget adapters or toiletries either and make sure your own home is order as you leave! Most of all, enjoy that last minute sun.