Travel expert Zia Bapuji fends off the winter blues with advice on planning for the summer
We've asked travel expert Zia Bapuji for her expert advice on planning summer holidays. Read her tips below, and call us to speak to one of our travel specialists. We can put together packages to destinations across the world, as well as create bespoke country and city guides for members, make restaurant and entertainment bookings, and arrange tours or activities during your stay.
When's a good time to start planning summer holidays?
January is traditionally a peak booking time. It's when many of the travel companies launch their advertising campaigns and people start booking holidays to ward off the winter blues.
Whilst prices can fluctuate throughout the year and are hard to predict, if you want to go to a specific resort or need to travel during a specific time - for instance, the school holidays - then booking early is generally the best way to guarantee availability.
What's the best time of year to go for a summer holiday?
If you're flexible and not travelling with children, then you may wish to consider avoiding travelling during the school holidays. The Mediterranean and many long-haul destinations will have good weather during June and September, which are quieter months because children are still in school.
If you're travelling with children then call us to discuss options. Prices and the popularity of resorts change throughout the year, but we'll always aim to secure the best available deals for our members, and we can advise on destinations where you can avoid the summer crowds and identify suitable resorts with children's clubs and activities.
What's your favourite summer sun destination this year?
Orlando is always a good family-friendly destination because you can combine theme parks with a stay at one of Florida's beach resorts.
We also recommend Majorca because its so flexible when it comes to price - it has hotels to suit all budgets.
For a romantic getaway try the Italian lakes, where couples can have a peaceful time to themselves.
Croatia was also a hit with members last year.
Why should I book my holiday through Ten?
We're completely independent, so we put together packages that are right for our members - we never push particular hotels or destinations. Our travel specialists have access to hundreds of airlines and we've got direct contacts at many hotels and resorts across the globe as well as access to many specialist tour operators. Ten is ATOL protected and we also check that our tour operator partners are ATOL protected too, which means our members won't get stranded abroad should a company go bust.
What about holidays on a budget? Can Ten help me put together a low-cost package?
We get lots of requests for low-cost breaks from our members. Tell us what your budget is and we'll research the options and put together suggestions that meet your needs. And we'll always use our contacts and suppliers to secure the best available package for our members.
What are the best destinations to mix sun, sea and sand with a bit of culture and history?
Turkey and Crete have beautiful beaches and are rich in history, and in Mexico you can combine swimming in the Caribbean with visits to ancient Aztec and Mayan sites.
Are there any destinations in the UK where you can catch some sea and sun?
Unfortunately we can't control the British weather! We can, however, help members who want to stay closer to home and advise on holidays in the UK.
Can Ten help if I lose my passport or need to see a dentist during the trip?
We have a multilingual team who are on call 24/7 to help members with any emergencies that may arise. Make sure our number is in your phone before you leave and call us whenever you need help. We'll assist in getting stranded passengers home, help find medical assistance and make emergency travel arrangements, but we can also help with restaurant bookings, tickets to shows and travel tips.
