Where do you go next?

If you haven't had a vacation, or even a short break, lately, the big question is where do you go next? Assuming you have less money to spend than perhaps last year, it might be too easy to tell yourself to just stay put. But we humans need to get outside of ourselves, to get away from our daily routines, in order to keep a clear vision of what our daily lives are really all about. You owe it to yourself, and your family, to take that break, long or short, to stay healthy and happy. So, where to go next? If your time frame and finances only allow a short break, there are 3 and 4 day cruises available now for tiny amounts of money. Some cruises are covering your cost of airfare, along with 2 for 1 fares, that make a week long cruise truly affordable. Most of your local (within 200 miles) resorts or spas have lowered their rates, or added additional days and amenities. If you can travel farther, your options are greater, again with special rates, added amenities, additional days at no charge. The Euro is now much more affordable and tours throughout Europe have become a bargain again. Airfare is still tricky, but good fares can be found. Try to find somewhere to go that will let you get completely out of your normal routines. Make sure to take lots of photos. Bring back a few souvenirs. Start to plan your next vacation even before you get back from this one. Actually, dream on a 5 year travel plan. There are so many places to see in the world, and planning for the future is a pleasure in itself. Your travel agent is priceless for getting information about what's going to be the next hot spot, or travel value. Don't be afraid to ask.

Value and Trust

According to Travel Trade the most important thing to travelers right now is getting value for their money and trust in their travel provider. Using a qualified travel consultant not only provides you with the expertise and knowledge to get the best values, but you are certain to have someone to contact with any changes, problems, and questions.
"....But value is what is important to baby boomers right now, so travel agents and suppliers need to emphasize the value for money when selling to boomers.
Marc Kazlauskas, president of Insight Vacations, agreed that the baby boomer market is still strong, but he also emphasized the importance of... past customers.
"Right now, its about loyalty and trust," Kazlauskas said. In today's economic climate, people are more leery about trusting you with their money if they haven't worked with you before. Agents and suppliers don't want to be prospecting now, he said. Instead, companies should be reconnecting with past customers.
Joanne D. Smith, senior vice president of in-flight services and global product development for Delta Air Lines, also said past passengers are of utmost importance. Smith told the audience of travel executives, marketers and press that Delta is targeting much of its marketing to its frequent fliers."
Families are stressed out right now and need to reconnect away from the pressures of everyday life, so no matter what type of family mix you have, being able to get away for a few days or a few weeks will be healthy and relaxing. If you have family members that are ill, or have physical challenges, there are many vendors that can accomodate them. You can also buy insurance for the trip even if someone has a pre-existing condition that may cause the trip to be cancelled. There are really no excuses for not taking a much needed break from all the craziness going on in the world today. There are vacations available in all price ranges, with many resorts and cruises offering extra days, better amenities, and lower prices. Take advantage while you can!