Tips to plan a last minute holiday

Too busy with work or simply forgot to make summer plans until now? There's a good chance that the hotels you've tried to contact are already fully booked and travel tickets are hard to come by. However, there's still time to salvage the situation with some handy travel planning tips:

THINK BEYOND THE OBVIOUS

If you're planning a last minute holiday and are looking to get a good deal on the prices, then mainstream places like Goa or Shimla might not be the best destinations to be looking to. Resorts in popular travel destinations will have hiked their prices considerably keeping in mind the popular demand right now. Also, train, air and bus tickets will be harder to come by.

USE A TRAVEL AGENT

Even if you normally prefer to do your own bookings and plan your trips yourself, a last minute holiday would be better organised by a travel agent. The agent will also be able to inform you of ongoing discounts and offers along with alternative holiday destinations you can try out.

VISA-ON-ARRIVAL DESTINATIONS

A late plan doesnft necessarily mean only choosing from domestic destinations. With the wide range of countries that offer visa-on-arrival to Indians, a quick trip to Thailand, Indonesia, Seychelles, Cambodia or one of the other short flight destinations seems ideal.

PACK SIMPLE. SHOP LATER

Haven't had time to do your resortwear shopping?

No swimsuit at hand? Donft fret. Simply pack the basics that you require and find flea markets or stores in the destination from where you can pick up the rest. However, make sure to pack your toiletries and medicines, since the brands might not be available or might be too expensive to purchase.

OFF-SEASON PICKS

Since most destinations that suit the summer break will be booked out, try choosing a place that is going through its off-season. There will be lesser holiday crowds around and you will be able to avail of cheaper hotel rooms and activity packages.

WEEKENDERS

If you only recently decided to take a holiday, chances of getting leave for the same are going to be very slim. If you can't take a long break, choose instead to make a couple of weekend plans through the rest of summer. This way you can try out different destinations each time and the kids will look forward to the weekly outings.

Compiled by Lara Rebello lara.rebello@timesgroup.com