Getting away from it all does not have to be difficult, or
expensive!
As a travel agent in the late ‘80s I took advantage of an
opportunity to travel throughout Europe on a double decker London bus that had
been converted into a motorhome of sorts complete with kitchen and bunks. I became
known as the “token Yank” while touring with a group of Australians and New
Zealanders who had come to the “Mother Country” to work, save, then hit the
road on an extensive tour before heading home.
This mode of travel provided ample opportunity to get to know my companions and share stories of our lives back home. In one
particular conversation in Florence, we talked about how Americans save all
their lives in order to buy new luggage and a wardrobe in order to spend 2
weeks on the vacation of a lifetime. They shared with me how in Europe
vacationing is built into their annual plans. In some countries, Germany for
instance, 6 weeks off each summer is not uncommon, along with many days if not
weeks during other parts of the year.
I had to agree with my European friends; we Americans don’t
relax very well.
Is it really that difficult to get away? Granted, most
of us are constrained by the allotted time we are given through our employers
but how can we make the most of that time and escape from the tyranny of
the urgent that so often plagues us during our staycations?
One option depends upon our ability to get away on short
notice. There are constant “last minute” vacation opportunities that offer
incredible value and may only require a quick drive to the nearest major
airport or cruise terminal. Cruising, for instance, provides an ‘all-inclusive’ experience ranging from one to 7 days and longer. Deeply discounted staterooms
for a 4-night excursion at $159 per person is one recent offering. Land
packages to the Caribbean including hotel, all meals, entertainment and
transfers to and from the airport can be very affordable. Even European vacations can be enjoyed at
rates much less expensive than might be expected. One European River Cruise
company is currently offering free airfare out of Atlanta along with free round trip transfers
to and from the airport to the ship.
So, the key to is to take another look at getting away. An
advocate to help you, to be on the lookout for the deals on your behalf can
take the stress away from having to keep up with the best offerings out there.
Get to know your local travel agent. They are compensated by the hotels, land
package suppliers and cruise lines and can provide an invaluable service to
their clients. Stop into their retail location and share your dreams of travel. The right travel consultant will take good notes and be on the lookout
for you as they receive news of the latest deals that arrive via email on a
daily basis.Then, all you have to do is choose your location, how you're going to get there and be on your way!
Jon Harvill
Jon is the Franchise Partner with Expedia
CruiseShipCenters-Greystone located in the Village at Lee Branch between Moe’s
and the UPS Store in Birmingham, Alabama. He constantly fights the urge to get away!
