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The Travel Professor
Join me on a journey across the broad spectrum of interesting travel topics. We’ll discuss destinations domestic and abroad, some familiar and some off the beaten path. We take a look at suppliers like cruise lines, air carriers and tour operators and find their bargains and special offerings.

Saturday, January 13, 2007

Here are some thoughts for the anonymous traveler looking for a not very expensive (about $900.00) trip during a break in summer school.
Follow the advice of these 4 Wise men: Who, What, Where, & When and their sidekick Howie. Ask yourself then answer these questions:
· Who’s traveling? Number of people going with you impacts your prices
· What do I really want to do on this vacation? Shop? Sightseeing intensive? Veg out on the beach? City lights or country life?
· Also what do I need? Air? Car? Cruise? Land package? Self directed or guided tour?
· Where do you want to go? Answering the question should help you narrow down your choices.
· When do I want to go? If you on break from school you should have specific dates.
· Howie is the how much question? How much have you budgeted for travel components? Did you include meals, admissions to museums or attractions in your figure of $900.00? It also is the “how much of a risk taker am I”? Do you need advance reservations or are you willing to wait and see what the last minute specials are.
Some other helpful tips:
· If you’re looking for a real bargain think off season. Summer is high season for Europe but low season to sunny climes like the Caribbean.
· Midweek travel is often less than weekend travel
· Look for all inclusive packages that include meals & beverages.
· Find a good travel agent that can sort out the maze of destinations and specially priced travel packages.