Planning for a European Vacation
We should discuss this first as your budget for the entire trip as well as how you are going to spend your time in England are dependent on date of your vacation. The country is relatively small but one place experiences a slightly different weather from its neighbors. In general, high-season runs from the month of July to September. Because these months offer extra daylight and a tourist-friendly weather with the least chances of rain, visitors flock to the cities and towns of England.
High-season offers higher plane ticket prices and expensive hotel accommodation. Off-season runs from, November to May. You may get cheaper hotels and plane tickets during these months but traveling can present extra challenges because of the weather. If you are unsure of weather pattern, do your research online or check with your travel agent for advice.
Set your budget
Decide how much you are going to spend in your vacation. Include plane tickets, hotel accommodation, transportation (train, taxi or car rent), fees on tourist attractions and souvenirs. Food is much expensive in England than in the United States. A regular meal can cost up to 50 Euros per person. If you are traveling on a budget, consider taking package tours or all-inclusive. If you are planning to go flexible, take the last minute booking and go to hotel as walk-in (if it is off-season). Check the current exchange rate to give you a clear idea of the cost of your trip.
Pick a destination
There are lots of places to visit in England, and in most cases, tourists cannot visit them all in one trip. Pick places that are close to one another. Plan your routes in such a way that the trip is relaxing.
Since European cities are just hours apart, consider visiting at least 2 more cities. For example, you can visit London, Paris and Rome.
How do you like to spend your time?
Do you like a guided tour or do you prefer doing your own thing? Do you like water or the mountains? shopping or visit historical sites? Adventure or historical museums? Such things should be considered when planning for your trip. Take note of the things you want to do and places you want to visit while in England. Do your research online.
Get organized
Traveling can become a headache more than a vacation if you do not get organized. Trip-planning software is a popular tool you can use but creating a checklist will do. Do not forget your passport, an identification card, 2 credit cards, ATM cards. Set specific dates for booking a flight and a hotel room, renting a car, exchanging money to local currency, etc. Find out if getting a travel insurance works to your advantage.
Travel light
Packing should be taken seriously. Do this several days prior to your departure. Do not carry things you do not need. Pick clothes that are comfortable to wear but are not too bulky. Don’t worry too much if you forget something, you can get it once you reach your destination.
Finally, have fun!
Planning is the key to a memorable England vacation. If you have planned well, you will be able to relax and enjoy while on the trip. Still, you have to open yourself to things you have not planned. As they say, “go with the flow”. Many seasoned travelers would say that the best vacations are the ones when the unexpected happened.