As I watch the rollercoaster ride that currently is our stock market, my 30+ years in the travel industry no longer just remind me how old I am – they’ve suddenly become a priceless knowledgebase that can save you money during these challenging times. Here are my thoughts and suggestions on what we can all do to stay afloat. A month ago I read an article about how ‘close to home destinations’ (such as theme parks) will get a boost from our volatile situation but as I glance at my world map, I realize the end of my business is nowhere in sight – people are still traveling.

You can also continue to travel (and save money doing it) but first need to realize that your savings are directly proportional to your demeanor. If you’re looking to escape the evening news and get out of town for a couple of weeks, you need to have flexible travel dates and be prepared to act quickly. This is not a time for prudent planners, nor is it a time for haste. If you take this advice and work with a travel consultant (who can wade through the hundreds of daily bargains), you’re bound to come up with a great deal. But, simply telling your consultant you want a ‘bargain’ or a ‘last minute deal’ is no longer enough – you need to have some prerequisites in mind (i.e. destinations, activities, land/cruise, etc…). If you don’t already own one, I’d suggest getting a world map.

When people hear me mention getting out of town for a ‘couple of weeks’ the reaction is usually to gawk in horror – who can possibly have that much time to take off? But if you have the days saved up or if you’re retired, we’re seeing way more bang-for-your-buck on longer voyages. On a per-day basis, 2 week cruises have been significantly cheaper but expect to see reduced deposits and cancellation periods in order to get more commitment. Might I also remind you that in this day in age, handhelds and wireless cruise ships reduce two weeks out of the office to just a few days. You are now able to stay as connected as if you were actually at your desk – trust me, I’ve done it a number of times…

My next point is a common misconception I see with clients – the blending and/or confusion between the words ‘cheaper’ and ‘better value.’ Just because something is cheap(er) does not necessarily mean it’s a ‘better value.’ Some have been asking if cruise fares will now dip lower at the last minute (1 to 2 months out); a great example of when having a travel consultant is essential. The short answer is that high-end lines will concentrate on value (same voyage price but with more extras), while Premium lines will increase last minute deals. The reason for this is that the luxury brands generally include more in their price (i.e. gratuity, offshore excursions, transfers, etc…) and don’t feel the same need to fill the ship. The Premium lines will try to reduce their rate to fill cabins, but boost the prices on everything else they can squeeze out of you.

If you’re a family traveler, squeezing into a cabin might not be an option but this is the other area we’ve seen a huge increase in value. If you’ve got the added human baggage, be sure to look into lines that offer cabins which can comfortably fit 3-4 instead of having to book a separate room for the kids.

Finally, keep in mind that the U.S. is not the only place challenged by the economic downturn – other places are feeling it and also offering bargains. We’ve seen some great deals in Europe and the Caribbean but buyer beware of Europe – the cost to cross the pond might negate the money you’re saving from the cruise booking.

To sum it up: be flexible, prepared to act quickly, and have a preconception of what you’re looking for.

Happy (All-)Travels!


Sincerely,

Eric Maryanov

President

All-Travel