Last week’s survey about booking trends revealed that only 16 percent of you could not see yourself booking a last-minute river cruise in Europe. Who said we couldn’t be spontaneous? Show us a deal, and we’re on board.
Your comments and our commentary.
“We have a giant dog and have to book her lodging well ahead to ensure there is space for her, hence we usually book one year in advance.”
We are left wondering: Just how large is this dog?
Some like to book in advance to get the best rates on flights. The airlines typically open flights 330 days before departure.
“We are available for last minute but most likely book last minute North America or Caribbean where we don’t have to worry about flights.”
Yes. Getting good value on transatlantic flights can be trying – and sometimes impossible. Be sure to check out my strategies in Saving A Fortune On Business Class Air & Other Tips For New Adventures
“We are a retired couple. We usually plan a year in advance. That said, since we are retired we also watch for last-minute bargains. Sorry that doesn’t help you.”
You are correct. It doesn’t help us but it certainly helps you save when you do find those last-minute bargains.
The not-yet retired have their challenges: “Scheduling 2+ weeks of vacation time from work is key. Planning far enough ahead allows advanced notice.”
Others prefer knowing what they’re getting into. “Well in advance. Get the cabin you want, not the leftovers. Plus, higher airfare would negate any cruise savings. As well, with close-in flights, you may have limited seat selection.”
It’s possible to find good seats and airfares, though. In the post at the link above, you’ll read where I booked my business class air tickets to Europe just weeks before my barge trips in France.
Some like to have it both ways. “Sometimes I can find good deals on last-minute bookings. I also like to plan ahead to have something in the distance to look forward to.”
Others are betting on fire sales, the longer they wait. “Better prices once the cruise line knows the bookings are slow for particular cruises.”
And at least one person tells us that they prefer the nearly instant gratification of booking close in. “No waiting when you book last minute!”
Thank you to everyone who participated in the survey and who commented. There were many more than we could publish, but we read each and every one of your comments.
This article was originally published at River Cruise Advisor.
An avid traveler and an award-winning journalist, Ralph Grizzle produces articles, video and photos that are inspiring and informative, personal and passionate. A journalism graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Ralph has specialized in travel writing for more than two decades. To read more cruise and port reviews by Ralph Grizzle, visit his website at www.avidcruiser.com and www.rivercruiseadvisor.com.
