Planning travel can sometimes seem a bit overwhelming. Where to start? Where to find the best deals? I’ll be updating this list on an ongoing basis, and would love your suggestions too!
FLYING.
- This is usually my first stop: Expedia
- Then I’ll compare it with some of the bargain sites like Cheapoair and Cheaptickets
- Then I’ll do one last check on the airline’s own site (ex. http://www.aircanada.com) and will pick the best option. If the price is the same direct from the carrier, pick this one – less headaches if the flight gets cancelled or changed prior to departure
SLEEPING.
- Hostelling: Hostel Bookers or Hostel World – both are extensive and offer options in pretty much every city
- Hotels: Hotels.com or back to Expedia
- My current obsession: Airbnb – allows you to book apartments or rooms from local residents, giving you a true sense of the city
- Before booking, definitely recommended to check out TripAdvisor to get the true lowdown – a hostel or hotel’s website may be beautiful, but the real life experience may not be
SEEING AND DOING.
- Lonely Planet – I’ll use this site to get a sense of the overall lay of the land: what is there to do, see and eat
- National Geographic – This is usually where I get inspired if I’m trip planning. Beautiful photos and insightful information
- TripAdvisor – I like to take tours operated by local tour companies, but this can sometimes mean a few unknowns when it comes to reliability, quality, etc. Look for reviews to make sure you’re getting what you’re expecting
ROAM IS WHERE THE HEART IS 