Tropical Getaway

 The idea of tropical vacations may conjure images of insipid buffets, watered down drinks, and long lines. But many of today’s all-inclusive resorts have a lot more to offer—including quality food--and can still provide great value to luxury and budget-minded travellers alike, as well as those traveling with multiple generations. Sometimes planning a vacation is as fun as taking the vacation. But sometimes you want someone else to do all the work for you and just book a vacation package. Because, let's face it, sorting through hotels, itineraries, and flights can be a daunting task when you just want to get away. Booking your trip is the first step in your travel experience and determines many aspects of your trip. The way you decide to book can save you money; get you the best room, dining reservations and ideal activities for you and your family.

Tropical vacations can be discounted for many reasons: lack of demand, climate and weather, or a promotion, such as opening of a new spa. Here are some tips to help you analyze the specials offered to you and make the best decision for your wallet. Most destinations have peek seasons and off-peak seasons. The Caribbean, for example, offers deals from June to September when hurricanes are more likely to hit the area. This does not mean that a Caribbean vacation is a bad idea. If you can manage a last minute tropical vacation getaway, check the weather forecast and take advantage of the low off-season rates. You’ll get the best deals in the Caribbean and Mexico from the end of May through October, for obvious reasons. But if you want to enjoy the sun when it’s in scarce supply in Canada, your best bet is to travel in October or November, when prices are still low. They soar around Christmas, drop again after New Year’s and rise steadily through January and February, peaking in March.

Due to proximity, airline availability, and differences in demand, some Caribbean islands are simply less expensive to fly to than others. If you're on a budget, you should definitely consider the cost of flying when you choose which Caribbean isle to visit. Flights to the ever-popular Caribbean can be heart-stopping expensive. Depending on the time of year, price increases can be dramatic. You'll likely want to invest in travel insurance, in case of severe weather (like hurricanes). Apartments are inexpensive and allow you to experience the destination like a local. While rental inventories tend to be lower on Caribbean islands due to lower home stock, you can often find well-priced, well-located vacation rentals, especially during the off-season. Keep in mind that groceries can be expensive on some Caribbean islands, but many vacation-home owners include supplies like fruit and water, while others stock their own snorkelling equipment, towels, chairs, and even bicycles for guests. Check with your Credit Card Company or existing insurance policies to see if travel-specific insurance is offered. And know that some Caribbean islands, like Aruba, are largely outside the hurricane belt.