So, it’s your first time travelling? Exciting times! Whether you’re going alone, with friends or even with your family, travelling for the first time can be a little intimidating. You’ve probably watched one of those border security shows, and now you’re dreading trying to get through security alone. Perhaps you have a phobia of flying; also known as aerophobia or aviophobia. Whatever the reason for your nervousness, we’re here to help guide you through everything, from getting to the airport to finding your way around town when you land.
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Planning your Trip
Before we worry about flying, landing or even dealing with the airport, it’s time to plan the trip! Booking flights and a hotel can often be a tedious task, as you wish to find the best deals you can and not have to fork out all your hard earned cash. Well, whether you have a destination in mind or not, we’re here to help you with a few ideas.
Planning your Trip
Summer Destinations
If you’re a fan of the sun and warm weather, then summer is the best time to plan that holiday you’ve been thinking about for the last few months. There’s nothing better than getting away from the pressures of work and home life and just relaxing in another country, while soaking up the sun. Check out these more popular summer destinations.
- Caribbean
- Dubai
- Algarves
- Crete
- Cyprus
- Turkey
- Greece
- Majorca
The Caribbean is a region of the Caribbean Sea and its islands. Everyone should experience the Caribbean at least once in their lives. Mixing rum and calypso rhythms in Barbados; going snorkelling or even scuba diving around Antigua’s beautiful coral reefs; or even exploring exotic flower-filled rainforests in St Lucia. Check out some of the package deals offered by airlines:
TUIHays TravelFirst ChoiceVirgin HolidaysExpediaBritish Airways
What to Do
The Caribbean isn’t just sun, sand and sea; while that does make up a lot of what the Caribbean has to offer, there is always more.While relaxing on the beach is usually why people visit the Caribbean Island, there are always plenty of activities for those of us who aren’t looking to sit in the sun and relax for the week. The Caribbean offers snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming with dolphins, kite surfing and so much more. If none of this is for you, then check out these suggestions:
50 Great Things to do in the Caribbean10 Great Things to do in the CaribbeanThings to do in the CaribbeanThe Top 10 Things to do in the Caribbean
Dubai is the largest and most populous city in the United Arab Emirates. What was once a desert community has quickly become one of the world’s most luxurious destinations, with the world’s only 7 star hotel, as well as some of the most iconic landmarks in the world. Check out what the airlines have to offer:
TUIVirgin HolidaysEmiratesThomas CookBritish AirwaysExpedia
What to Do
Dubai is one of the most luxurious places in the world, so you can expect everything to be extravagant, with record breaking architecture, man-made islands and more. Not to mention the Dubai Mall, with 1,200 stores and 150 restaurants, as well as an indoor theme park, ice rink, waterfall, outdoor fountain and even the giant Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. Nothing is simple ion Dubai, check out these lists to see for yourself:
Things to do in DubaiThe Top 10 Things to do in Dubai15 Fun New Things to do in Dubai60 Amazing Things to do in Dubai with Guests
The Algarves is the southernmost region of continental Portugal, seeing millions of international and national tourists annually. A regular winner at the World Travel Awards ( the travel industry’s answer to the Oscars), the Algraves have won awards for just about everything, from diving spots to sublime golf resorts. See what package holidays the airlines have to offer:
TUIThomas CookJet2HolidaysEasyJetFirst ChoiceExpedia
What to Do
The Algarves sit on the south coast of Portugal, so sitting out in the sun and enjoying the beaches is a must, but if that doesn’t take your fancy then the Algarves also offers surfing, historical ruins, vineyards and more. Check everything out here:
The Top 10 Things to Do in The Algarves14 Top Rated Tourist Attractions in the AlgarvesTop Things to do in The AlgarvesThings to do in The Algarves
Crete is the largest and most populous of the Greek Islands, as well as being the fifth-largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. Crete offers good weather year round, with the summer months hitting highs of around 30°C as well as 650 miles of beautiful coastline to see and visit. Major airlines always have package deals available Crete, check them out here:
TUIJet2HolidaysThomas CookFirst ChoiceExpediaEasyJet
What to Do
As an island, Crete offers plenty of sun, sea and sand but for those that wish to see more of Crete, there are also plenty of historical sites to visit, including the Palace of Knossos, Heraklion Archaeological Museum and more. See what Crete has to offer by checking these sites out:
Top Things to do in CreteThings to do in CreteBest Things to do in Crete8 Top-Tourist Attractions in Crete
Cyprus is the third largest and third most populous island in the Mediterranean. Located to the south of Turkey, the island dates back to around the 10th millennium BC. With mountain scenery, centuries-old sights and incredible food and nightlife, Cyprus is a great travel destination for anyone. See what deals the airlines have to offer:
TUIThomas CookJet2HolidaysExpediaFirst Choice
What to Do
Cyprus has a lot to offer anybody, with clear waters, sunny beaches, coral bay and not to mention the long list of historical sights; including the Tombs of the Kings in Paphos. All of which you can visit while you’re there, there’s something for everyone to do in Cyprus. See what else you can get up to:
Things to do in CyprusTop Things to do in CyprusCyprus Attractions: What to See and do25 Best Things to Do in Cyprus
Turkey has always been a popular holiday destination for summer months! With great weather, sublime beaches and incredible waters, what’s not to love? If sitting on the beaches and soaking up the sun isn’t why you’re there, then the Ottoman ruins and Roman temples will likely keep you entertained. Take a look at what the airlines have to offer:
TUIThomas CookEasyJetExpediaFirst ChoiceJet2Holidays
What to Do
There’s always something to do in Turkey, with a variety of great food, beautiful ruins and temples as well as endless clear waters and incredible beaches. Here’s what you can get up to in Turkey:
Things to Do in Turkey57 Cool & Unusual Things to Do in Turkey12 Top-Rtaed Tourist Attractions in TurkeyTop 10 Things to do in Turkey
Greece offers travellers a lot, with plenty of great food, incredible weather and even more incredible beaches, all coupled with the beautiful blue waters, Greece is a must for anyone. it’s not just beaches you have to look forward to in Greece, with incredible nightlife, plenty of history and unrivaled views. Take a look at what packages the airlines offer:
TUIThomas CookFirst ChoiceExpediaJet2HolidaysEasyJet
What to Do
Greece offers travellers plenty of activities, from historical tours of the surrounding temples and ruins to cruises and private gulets, Greece always has something to offer. Check out these activities:
Things to do in GreeceTop 25 Attractions & Things to Do in Greece55 Cool & Unusual Things to Do in Greece25 Best Things to Do in Greece
Majorca is the largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean. While Majorca may usually be known as a beach resort, it has plenty more to offer, spend time exploring the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, which has been made into a World Heritage Site, or even sample the local cuisine. See what deals the major airlines have to offer :
TUIThomas CookExpediaFirst ChoiceJet2Holidays
What to Do
Majorca has something to offer everyone; whether you’re looking to sit on the beach and top up your tan, want to visit some historic sites and get to know the local history or even fancy just being amongst the locals and sampling the cuisine on offer. Check out what you can get up to here:
Things to Do in MajorcaTop 20 Things to do in MajorcaTop Five Things to See and Do in Majorca15 Best Things to do in Majorca
Winter Destinations
Perhaps getting away and trying to enjoy some sun isn’t what you’re after, if you’re looking to have a white Christmas then getting away to somewhere cold and snowy is likely your aim. Well, airlines don’t just offer package deals for beach holidays, they also have numerous packages for winter getaways. Check out some of the more popular destinations for winter breaks.
- New YOrk
- Switzerland
- Finland
- norway
- Estonia
- Canada
- France
- Lithuania
New York is the most populous city in the US and during winter it’s a wonderland for anyone that loves snow and the cold. With so many tourist attractions and landmarks, you’ll never be lost for something to do in New York. Check out what package deals the airlines have to offer:
TUIThomas CookVirgin HolidaysExpediaBritish AirwaysJet2
What to Do
New York is packed with things to do, from landmarks and memorials, to Times Square. During the winter months, New York usually turns into a wonderland over the winter months, leaving nothing uncovered. See what New York has to offer:
Things to Do in New YorkThe 101 Best Things to do in NYC20 Ultimate Things to Do in New York CityThings to Do in New York City
Switzerland is a mountainous Central |European country, home to numerous lakes, villages and high peaks of the Alps. With medieval quarters, landmarks like capital Bern’s Zytglogge clock tower. Known for its ski resorts and hiking trails, it’s a great winter getaway. Check out the packages deals on offer from the airlines:
TUIThomas CookExpediaBritish AirwaysEasyJet
What to Do
Holidays to Switzerland are all about the vast mountains, tranquil lakes and cities bubbling with heritage. Switzerland offers so much to any traveller, no matter their reason for visiting, with mixed culture, incredible food and medieval town centres. There’s something for everyone, check out what you can expect to do:
Things to Do in Switzerland35 Fun Things to do in Switzerland66 Cool & Unusual Things to Do in Switzerland50 Unique Things to Do in Switzerland
Finland is usually covered in snow during the winter months so if that’s what youre after, you likely won’t be disappointed. Home to the 18th-century sea fortress Suomenlinna, the fashionable Design District and diverse museums. Finland is definitely worth checking out, see what deals the airlines have to offer:
TUIThomas CookExpediaBritish Airway
What to Do
While Finland might not be one of the most visited countries in northern Europe, it still has plenty to offer. With majestic forests, stunning landscapes and plenty of winter fun. Visit Father Christmas at SantaPark or even take a shot at riding with reindeer in Lapland. Check out what you can get up to here:
Things to do in Finland33 Cool & Unusual Things to do in Finland12 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Finland25 Best Things to do in Finland
Norway is used to snow by now, and that’s perfect if that’s what you’re looking for. With ski resorts a few hours away by train and a great chance of snow in almost any city in the country, you’ll be in a winter wonderland no matter where you stay! Check out some deal from the airlines here:
TUIThomas CookExpediaBritish AirwaysEasyJet
What to Do
Norway offers so much to any traveller, encompassing mountains, glaciers and deep coastal fjords. Norway also has plenty of history for you to check out, with preserved 9th-century Viking ships displayed at Oslo’s Viking Ship Museum. As well as this Norway is known for fishing, hiking and skiing, most notably at Lillehammer’s Olympic Resort.
Things to Do in NorwayTop 17 Experiences in Norway25 Best Things to Do in Norway57 Cool & Unusual Things to do in Norway
You’ll feel a huge sense of Christmas spirit when you visit Estonia’s beautiful wooden Christmas market huts, especially once they’re covered in white fluffy snow, which falls more often than not. If Christmas markets aren’t for you the country also has plenty of historical sights to see too, check out airline package deals here:
TUIThomas CookExpediaBritish AirwaysEasyJet
What to Do
Estonia has plenty to offer anyone who wishes to have themselves a white Christmas, with surreal Christmas markets, as well as castles, fortifications, medieval houses and paths taking visitors on unforgettable adventures; not to mention Estonia is home to one of Europe’s largest national parks. Check out what you can get up to:
Things to Do in EstoniaWhat to See & Do in Estonia15 Best Places to Visit in Estonia25 Best Things to Do in Estonia
Canada is the second largest country in the world by total area, and covering so much land means that the country sees it’s fair share of snow each winter! With mountains, markets, history and so much more, Canada is highly recommended. Check out which airlines have package deals:
Thomas CookVirgin HolidaysExpediaBritish Airways
What to Do
Canada has plenty to offer to everyone, no matter what you’re looking for, you’ll likely find it here. With a rich history, Canada is an exciting country to explore, very few places in the work have natural wonders as awe inspiring as Canada. There are endless possibilities in Canada. Check some of them out:
Things to Do in Canada30 Things to Do in Canada321 Cool & Unusual Things to Do in Canada12 Best Places to Visit in Canada
France is littered with medieval cities, alpine villages and Mediterranean beaches, it really does have everything. Not to mention the history and attractions France has to offer, from the Eiffel Tower to classic art museums like the Louvre. Check out which airlines have package deals:
ExpediaBritish AirwaysJet2EasyJet
What to Do
France is home to an abundance of history and attractions, with everything from the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre, there’s a little something for everyone. Not to mention the ultimate attraction for your winter getaway; The Alps! If you’re looking for a snowy getaway, there’s no better place to spend it than in the Alps. Check out what else you can get up to:
Things to Do in France400 Cool & Unusual Things to Do in FranceTop 10 Must-See Hidden Attractions in FranceTop 10 Outdoor Activities to Experience in France
Lithuania is packed with culture and history, known for its medieval Old Town, as well as its Gothic, Renaissance and baroque architecture, as well as it’s 18th-century cathedral built on a pagan temple site. Lithuania sees snow more often than not during the winter, and you’ll likely not be disappointed. Check out which airlines are offering package holidays to Lithuania:
What to Do
Lithuania also knows how to do Christmas markets, filling everyone with festive cheers and the smells of delicious spiced treats, with the capital of Lithuania (Vilnius) going all out to take advantage of the snow, with ice-rinks set up outside the beautiful neo-classical cathedral in Town Square. There’s so much to do in Lithuania:
Things to Do in LithuaniaTop 10 Things To Do in Lithuania25 Best Things to Do in LithuaniaFun Things to Do in Lithuania
Booking your Trip
So you’ve picked your destination and you’re ready to book your holiday. Depending where you plan to visit, you can either book your holiday as a package deal online, or in a travel agents, or you can visit the travel agents and book everything in person. No matter which route you choose to take, booking the trip couldn’t be easier.
Booking Online
If you choose to book your holiday online, you’re responsible for making sure all required details are entered correctly. When booking online, you will be required to make the payment in full unless otherwise stated. Whether you’re booking a flight, hotel or whole package holiday, booking online is simple and there are many deals to be had. All you need is a computer or device with an active internet connection and a credit/debit card; once you’ve found the flight, hotel or package holiday you wish to book, follow all the instructions within the booking process and make payment when prompted. You may also require passport numbers and details for all companions if you’re booking for more than yourself. If you do book your flights online, you’re often given the option of online check-in, as well as the need to print off your own boarding passes. This allows you to skip some ques and get through check-in quickly, just make sure nobody loses theirs.
Booking Through a Travel Agent
If you choose to visit and book through a travel agent, the process is slightly different. Travel agents help you plan your trip, finding you the best prices and even clean up the mess if you encounter any troubles like cancelled flights etc. All you’re required to do when booking through a travel agent is communicate what you want and pay for everything. Payment through a travel agents is usually different to online, many travel agents allow you to pay a monthly amount up until you fly, this allows you to spread the cost across a few weeks or months. You must, however, pay the total for everything before a set date, if this isn’t payed, you’ll likely never get your hands on the tickets. Just make sure you have your tickets and any documents you may need before you leave for the airport.
Getting to and Around the Airport
Depending on the size of the party going away, getting to the airport and navigating around it can be a hassle. Many major airports are extremely busy at most times of the year, but especially during the winter and summer months, when people are looking to get away and enjoy some sun or escape (Or visit) the cold. There are numerous useful apps for taxis to get you there, and some even have fixed prices for airport trips. A few useful apps (Some apps may only be available in certain areas and regions) you can look to try are:
Uber | Google Play Store | Apple App StoreLyft | Google Play Store | Apple App StoreGett | Google Play Store | Apple App StoreMyTaxi | Google Play Store | Apple App StoreKabbee | Google Play Store | Apple App Store
Once you’ve made it to the airport, it’s time to tackle the really hard stuff; other people. The airport is a stressful place at the best of times, but when you have children with you or even just a large party, people tend to get distracted and getting lost in an airport is fairly easy. Stick together in groups, find the gate you need to get to and make sure everyone makes it through security. Once you’re through security, you have until your gate opens (Usually anywhere between 10 and 45 minutes before your flight departs.) to get drinks, shop and do anything you need to do. Just make sure you’re at your gate in time and don’t miss your flight.
Flying and Landing
You made it through the crowds and managed to avoid losing anyone. You got to your gate on time and now you’ve boarded, found your seats and you’re waiting to take off. Before taking off, you’ll likely have the pilot introduce themselves as well as the cabin crew. You’ll also be shown safety demonstrations by the cabin crew before leaving the runway. Due to the sudden changes in pressure when taking off and landing in an aircraft, some people experience some types of pain, ranging from a dull headache to severe shooting pain throughout their face. This, while painful, is common and will usually subside after you’re landed and your body has adjusted to the pressure. If the pain continues for more than a few days, we suggest seeking medical advice to be safe.
During your flight, it’s best to sit back, listen to music, watch a movie or even just have a catch up with everyone. Depending on the length of your flight, you may be served in flight meals as well as having the ability to purchase food, beverages and more from the cabin crew.
Top Travel Tips
You made it! If you don’t have a transfer from the airport to the hotel, we’d recommend checking to see if the city you landed in has Uber or any similar app, if they don’t, then find a local taxi, bus, coach or train. Now, relax, take a load off and enjoy your holiday with these travel tips.
