Should we stay or should we go?
With discounts on offer to tempt us to stay in the UK this year, should we stay or should we go abroad?
This week saw the launch of the UK government-backed campaign to keep Brits in the UK during 2012. With the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the London Olympics set to focus our attention on home destinations, Visit England, in conjunction with the Welsh, Scottish and Northern Irish tourist boards have launched a new website: www.great2012offers.com which offers a range of discounts on UK-based holidays.
They start at a minimum of 20.12 per cent off the standard prices for everything from ferry crossings to theme parks, hotels to cottages.
So what are the pros and cons of the Balearics over Blackpool or Turkey over Tenby?
Price
When you’re looking for a cheap holiday for the family then overall cost is a massive factor in your decision making. From research we have conducted, Brits are looking to slash their overall spend on holidays in 2012; however they do want value for money. And that includes the cost of food, travel and entertainment.
It’s vital that when you price up your family holiday that you add in all the costs. This should include everything from the moment you leave home to the moment you get back, including expenditure on new holiday wardrobes and kit.
Does 'Destination UK' match up to the Mediterranean for your holiday?
Weather
OK, when you travel to the Med or beyond during the summer you are pretty much guaranteed wall-to-wall sunshine and warm evenings. And to be fair, Destination UK does have fair share of great weather and not everybody is motivated by having hot sunny days to enjoy their break.
We would advise that you check the weather for your chosen destination and ensure this matches your family needs. Many children and babies can find hot sun too much and you must watch for sun burn and dehydration, so pick your holiday location wisely. Get tips from the NHS on how to protect your little ones.
Things to do
It’s so important to have plenty to do on your holiday in order to keep everyone happy. For some, a comfy beach bed in the sun and a good book is enough to while away many a day. For others, a full program of all-action sports is the only way to keep them fully occupied. Children can be as happy with a bucket and spade on a sandy beach in Newquay as they would be on the equivalent on Majorca.
However, having a range of daytime and evening entertainment and activities is the way to keep everyone happy. So ensure you know what is on offer and if it is included in the price.
So will you be tempted to stay in the UK?
This has to be your choice. The world has so much to offer and that includes our home nations just as much as the temptation of foreign lands. But with a little research into your favoured destinations, a check of the weather maps and a bit of crafty budgeting, you can afford a break that will be right for you.
Before opting for 20.12 discounts on UK breaks, compare the prices to see how good they are versus your normal UK and overseas favourites.
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