by Rachelle de Bretagne

Created on: March 24, 2007   Last Updated: May 20, 2007

When deciding to travel off season, there are many bargains to be had, although weighing up the reasons why those particular locations consider the season you chose as off season are important. Tourists like their comforts, and whilst some travel off season to get away from the hustle and bustle of high season madness, without proper planning, and advance research into their chosen holiday destination, their holiday can turn out to be a nightmare.

A tourist needs to weigh up what they are looking for in the ideal off season holiday, against what the holiday that seems very cheap is offering, because there are many pitfalls to taking holidays that they may not have taken into consideration, and that can really spoil the experience.

CLIMATE

Climates are different the world over, and researching what the expected climate is in the destination you choose is very important. Monsoon seasons, seasons of intemperate weather, excess heat, or excess cold can all spoil a holiday and as individual needs differ from person to person, this really is one of the most serious considerations when choosing an off peak holiday.

VISITING PLACES OF INTEREST

Here, more research is needed if the holiday is to be a success, since many of the tourist attractions close for the low seasons, and disappointment at not being able to see those places you looked forward to can spoil a holiday. Most holiday resorts have websites, and website research into opening times, and the difference between seasons is essential if you want to get this right.

AIR FARES

Many operators offer low price fares off season, although with the recent introduction of extras for taxes and baggage, do be careful that the price promise is all that you hoped it would be. An all inclusive package is probably a safe way to go, and getting written confirmation that the price quoted includes everything really is essential. Faced with extra charges at a later time, you can take this proof with you, and use it to defend your case if extra charges are levied. Airlines are hiding many of the extra charges on their no frills packages, and care needs to be taken on the choice of airline, and what it is offering. One of the greatest disadvantages of budget airlines is that they change their schedules on an alarmingly regular basis, which can leave you high and dry, offering last minute alternatives that really do not suit you.

REDUCED PRICES FOR OFF SEASON

Many hotels offer reduced prices for off season, though expecting the same level

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