AN END FOR THE BUDGET TRAVELLER?
Posted on 8/15/2010 at 8:28:14 AM
As the effects of escalating oil costs continue to affect industries across the board, the credit crunch looks set to hit the consumer hardest once again.
Ryanair are the latest company to reveal the extent of its financial hardships, with annual losses expected to approach GBP50 million. In fact, in the three months to the end of June, the carrier's net profits had fallen a staggering 85% to just 21 million euro.
With the significant increases in the price of oil over the past few months - a figure which saw it reach a peak in mid-July of nearly $150 per barrel - an announcement such as this was somewhat expected; only the extent of the losses came as a surprise.
Following the announcement from Ryanair, shares in the other exponent of budget flight - easyJet - plunged 8%, while British Airways suffered a drop of 5% in value. Those to suffer the most from the decline in fortune, however, look certain to be those travellers looking to take advantage of the great-value flights on offer.
With a view to curb losses, it is inevitable that profits will require a substantial boost from the raising of ticket prices. So is [more..] Posted in Travel News | No Comments »
Many first time travelers make the incorrect assumption that a European vacation is beyond their means, but this is often not the case.
One of the biggest costs associated with any vacation, including travel to countries in Europe, is lodging, but it is possible to fund budget accommodations that are clean, safe and centrally located.
One of the secrets to finding affordable budget accommodations when traveling to Europe is to check out the many bed and breakfast hotels that are common in Europe.
The average bed and breakfast in Europe is much different than its American counterpart. Whereas many bed and breakfast's in the United States are luxurious, and expensive destinations, Europeans generally regard bed and breakfast hotels as inexpensive places to stay, and they can be much more affordable than hotels in similar locations.
Most bed and breakfast hotels in European destinations are small, family run hotels.In many cases, the family has their living quarters right on the premises, and the hotel generally provides free breakfast with the price of the room.
There are many places to look for European bed and breakfast hotels, including the Internet, destination travel guides, Internet news groups and travel review web sites. 
Visiting London on a budget may seem impossible but it can be done if you choose traveling options off the beaten path. High tourist season is typically early April through late September. If you can opt to vacation there from early October through late March, you are likely to find less expensive airline tickets to and from London. Once you're in the Square Mile, you'll have unlimited options for having fun, sleeping cheap and eating well without spending a wallet full of Euros. Typically, the second most expensive aspect of traveling abroad is the hotel stay, second only to the airfare to get there. Depending on the time of year you travel and your comfort level, your options are wide open. Consider a home exchange. There are many home exchange facilitators, you can run a web search to find one you like. Members will pay an annual fee, usually $50 to $100. Most house swaps are offered in 1 week increments with a minimum of 2 weeks and you don't necessarily swap your house with the same family whose house you will stay in. You might stay in a London flat while 
It is not impossible to enjoy Las Vegas on a budget! With a little research and planning, a visitor can anticipate and control trip expenses. Airline, auto club, travel review and discounter websites provide promotional information; it's essentially a matter of deciding what is most important to the visitor.
A significant part of the trip may be airline cost. It is important to check flight costs often (as they frequently change) and to make reservations well in advance. Lower-prices may be found for early morning, evening, or connecting flights. But, if a favorite Vegas show has available seats for the 7 PM show that are $50 less than the 10 PM one, spending a little more on airfare to arrive earlier will be worth it. If you would like to experience Las Vegas on a budget, have the big picture in mind of how you want to enjoy Las Vegas, in order to plan an itinerary that maximizes your spent dollar.
Regarding ground transportation from the airport, a cab costs at least $25 to cruise the famous, resort covered Strip, or casino-filled Downtown Las Vegas. It is less costly to rent cars away from the airport, but they are not really 
Going for a vacation is always a big expenditure. However, with careful planning, your vacation can be fun and enriching without compromising on its quality. If you are on a budget and planning for a vacation, here are some useful tips for you.
Flight Planning
1. Always compare flight deals. Look for lowest rates and understand what they are offering. Do note their cancellation policy before you make your reservation.
2. Look for a flight and hotel bundle which will save you money.
Transport Planning
1. Grab a rail pass to make travelling easier and hassle-free. Some countries offer family passes too. Usually, rail companies will have discounted packages with admission to attractions or accommodation deals.
2. Go for sightseeing buses to minimize transfers and maximise sightseeing. Sightseeing buses provide interesting commentary, unless you want to miss it.
3. Look for free airport transfer from hotels or free transport around the city. Some cities and attractions provide free city tourist shuttle.
4. Always look for sightseeing passes. There are a number which includes transportation. These passes can save you tons.
5. Get a local transport bus pass if you intend to adventure out on your