Globetrotting In High Heels: Beating The January Blues
The nation seems to be in a collective mourning for the loss of festive fun. Combined with the horror of returning back to the dreaded grindstone and having to run yourself ragged on school/after school club runs, many of us are experiencing what is commonly known as ‘the January blues’.
There’s only one cure for such an affliction, and we all know that that’s booking our next break. Whether it’s a fortnight somewhere exotic or a day at the seaside; having something to look forward to can work wonders on black January moods. The only snag in this mood-busting plan is that most of us have a partner, family or even friends to consider when it comes to our annual escapes, and therefore some discussion/consideration/heated debate is often required before arrangements are able to be fixed.
To smooth the way for a harmonious new year, follow my top holiday booking tips:
Think Outside the Box
It never ceases to amaze me how many people will book a week’s package deal, to the same or similar destination each year. Seriously, my in laws went to the same hotel in Greece twice a year for about five years on the trot! If you’ve enjoyed your annual holiday, which most people do, there’s of course a temptation to return time and time again. However, remember, most of us have limited opportunity to travel and the world is a big place.
Don’t be afraid to think outside the box. If you usually do a week on the beach, why not consider a city break? Or skiing? Or perhaps an activity trip? Mix it up and have an adventure. The in laws finally broke off their love affair with Crete and decided to motorbike it from the UK to Italy!
Of course, I understand that for many people, a holiday is a rare chance to relax, and so lying by the pool for two weeks sounds like heaven. In this case, mix up your destinations. Go further afield or closer to home, choose a special hotel or book some fabulous excursions/spa treatments/scuba diving lessons. Just don’t waste this precious opportunity to try somewhere or something new and exciting.
Share Your Thoughts
Once you’ve processed your own thoughts on possible getaways, it’s time to share them with your nearest and dearest. They’re not mind readers after all, and neither are you, so don’t assume that they have the same thing in mind. Gather the family, or anyone else that may be tagging along for the ride, and get everyone’s thoughts on their dream trip, then try to reach a compromise. The may be a simple task, or it may take days of intense negotiation, but with give and take on all sides it’s possible to keep everyone happy.
For example, if you just want sun, sun and more sun, but your husband fancies a culture break in an exciting city, consider somewhere like Barcelona that has great weather in summer, great beaches and more culture than you could possible hope to experience in a week. Perhaps the rich & unique culture of Sicily, or if you want to go further afield – Miami? There really are so many amazing options.
Research, Research, Research
Once you’ve settled on a destination it’s time to get stuck into some serious research to ensure that you get the most out of your trip and your budget. Trip Advisor is an amazing resource, which means that you can be sure of avoiding that dud hotel and those tourist trap restaurants. I also love the ‘Things to Do’ function that will list the top attractions at your destination, as rated by your fellow globetrotters.
Invest in a couple of hours of Trip Advisor and you’re pretty much guaranteed to have an amazing time, wherever you go. However, beware, it can get seriously addictive, and I often find myself browsing for the terrible reviews of hotels that I have no intention of ever visiting just for my own entertainment.
Whatever type of getaway is on your wish list this year, Groupon Getaways offers amazing deals on everything from beach holidays to days out closer to home, to make your budget go further. Don’t forget your toothbrush!
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