Advantages of traveling in summer

Cheaper flights

 

During the summer, airlines understand that because more people are going to be flying, they don’t have to push their prices up as high as they would during the rest of the year. Offering reduced rates during certain periods means they are more likely to get an influx of customers, and they still make their profit margins due to they higher number of tickets sold. Its a win either way, but you may have to be ready to pick up a cheap flight at the drop of a hat, because there’s no telling when the special prices will end!

 

It’s a busy, busy time of the year

 

Because the conditions are generally more bearable than in the winter, many festivals, shows and special events take place during the summer to take advantage of this. Everyone is more likely to take a day off during the summer to go to a music festival, or to for a stroll through carnival, so if you do decide to travel during the summer, you can expect a whole lot of activities to be waiting for you wherever you go.

 

Clothing optional

 

When traveling in the summer, you’re generally not going to need many jackets, umbrellas, hats or gloves because its either too hot to wear all of that, or you've chosen a destination where the climate is perfect all year round, so even the chance of rain is minimal (and if it does occur, the locals may be willing to help you out anyway). Traveling in the summer means that you really only have to leave your hotel with the clothes on your back, which if you’re lucky enough, will be a pair of swimming trunks, a towel and a surfboard because you’ll be spending all day on the beach.

 

Get your hands on those special packages

 

Summer is also the time when you’re more likely to be offered a complete travel package. Whether its to Thailand, a safari tour in Africa, or a two week stay on some exotic island, Summer will bring you deals that cater directly to what you need, and because these deals are offered together, they are easier to navigate, cheaper because of their status as ‘special offers’, and easy to take advantage of if you’re ready to go at the drop of a hat.

Where to travel in August

1.Namaqualand, South Africa

 

Starting close to home on this one, the Northern Cape of South Africa is home to some of the most spectacular scenery you will see in the entire country. On the Namaqualand plains, the sights of the first Namaqua daisies blooming is a sure sign that spring is here. Starting in August, the carpets of flowers, coloured deep pink, purple, orange and yellow will begin to grow over the seemingly arid and bland landscape, often lasting for hundreds of kilometers. August is also a good month to visit because it is still relatively free of the hives of tourists who will be visiting in the spring and summer months - but keep in mind that you will still be facing some icy temperatures.

 

2.Edinburgh, Scotland

 

August is the month that hosts one of the biggest cultural events in the world, the Edinburgh Festival. With internationally prized musicians, comedians, actors and artists flocking to the country to participate in the festival alongside some of the best up and coming talent, the entire city turns into a festival ground, and everywhere you look, there will be new faces and new experiences to be enjoyed.

 

3.Maine, USA

 

Another famous festival that you may want to visit in August is one for all the foodies out there. Every year,  thousands of people will flock to the New England coast on the Eastern side of the USA to enjoy the world famous Maine Lobster as part of the annual Main Lobster Festival. The festival celebrates everything about the lobsters, and there is no doubt that you will find a lobster dish that you have never seen before, cooked by some of the best lobster chefs the region has to offer.

 

4.Florence, Italy

 

Most Europeans typicaly take August and September to be their holiday months, and because of this, many of the more famous areas of the continent will be packed full. So why not take advantage of this and settle into the quiet cities that will be left for tourists to enjoy. August in Europe is a pleasant affair, with relatively mild temperatures and cool nights, but most importantly, a wide range of options on how to see the country. You could hike through the Italian countryside, or take a bike ride through the city and surrounding villages, or choose to stay within the city limits, sitting at coffee shops all day sharing stories with all of your friends and fellow tourists. Florence is also Northern enough to escape the incredibly harsh summer heat that is commonly associated with the Southern region in the summer months. Enjoy the incredible medieval heritage of the city and get lost in the Renaissance era artifacts and architecture that defined the area in the18th century.

Do’s and Don’t’s for traveling with your pets

DO’S:

 

• Check beforehand what the hotel’s policy is on pets, and follow it strictly.

• Keep your pet tied up or in a cage as much as possible while on the trip. This is not necessarily to keep them from running away or going missing, but being in a strange place may make them defensive, and they could cause a problem with a guest if they are left free. 

• Clean up after your pet if he/she makes a mess during the night for whatever reason, and let the hotel staff know so that they can make the necessary arrangements to get it cleaned up properly.

• Be considerate of others when you take your pet onto the elevator. Some people are very afraid of animals, even if you think your dog is too small to cause any harm.

• Remember: Your next-door hotel room neighbor doesn't like your pet after midnight. Make sure your pet is trained before trying to take them anywhere. You don’t want them barking or causing a ruckus all night or tearing up the room, making the situation difficult for everyone.

 

DON’TS:

 

• Don’t bring more than one pet. If you do, expect to be charged a double cleaning fee.

• Don’t leave your pet in the room when you leave unless he/she is caged. If someone opens the door, the animal can escape or even hurt someone when they become frightened and defensive.

• Don’t ask another hotel guest to watch your pet, and then blame the hotel if the pet runs away.