Befor You Book
In this Before you book section you will find answers to
many of the questions you may have whilst choosing your
family holiday, from kids clubs to quality family time,
from Flintstones value to Windsor luxury, from early booking
to fly by the seat of your pants late deals, and of course
much much more.
Who to book with?
Package holidays
Although the traditional package holiday is in decline,
the majority of holidays sold continue to be tour operator
packages. The advantages include having most or all the
elements of the holiday arranged for you, including transfers
and representation in the destination or resort. Packages
can be cheaper, though that is not always the case. Most,
but not all, packages offered by tour operators also offer
the consumer protection through the ATOL scheme, which prevents
you from losing money or being stranded abroad should the
travel firm cease trading.
Increasingly, tour operators and agencies are offering
customers the ability to design their own packages. This
practice is known as 'dynamic packaging' within the travel
industry. Durations need not be limited to 7 or 14 days
and the combinations and permutations of flights, accommodation,
car hire and excursions are assembled by the customer according
to his or her requirements.
Independent Travel
Making arrangements independently can offer greater flexibility
and be less expensive, sometimes significantly. However,
it is likely to require more effort and you will have nobody
to turn to if the hotel, for example, falls far short of
your expectations. Getting it right with the accommodation
is a key ingredient of a successful family holiday so be
sure to do your homework via the internet or seek recommendations
from friends.
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