The LA Times Online Travel Chat session yesterday was very successful. I apologize for putting the link up just a few hours before the session actually started, but I hope that some of you were able to attend.

For anyone that may have missed it, you can check out the transcript here: http://travel.latimes.com/articles/la-trw-travel-chat-100807-transcript?page=1

There were a lot of budget travel topics covered, including two interesting topics I would like to highlight here. The following questions and responses come from yesterday’s Online Travel Chat session with the LA Times Travel Deal Detectives. I have include my own comments at the end:

I’ll be heading to Belize on Thursday, what is the best way to search for inexpensive local tours?

Sara Benson, Travel Deal Detective: I haven’t been to Belize, but in many other Latin American countries (Andrew, you can chime in on this, I know) the best way to find local tours is to ask after arrival at local guesthouses, restaurants, even shops where you find a friendly atmosphere and sincere locals. Always shop around for the best price. Also, ask yourself: do I really need to take a tour, or can I do it myself just as easily?

Andrew Nystrom, Web Travel Editor: Great advice, Sara. Chris, depending on how much time you have for vacation, I’d avise holding off on booking any tours until you can talk to some locals and ask for advice.

My Comments:

I thought this was great advice. With a country like Belize, or really any other developing or small country around the world, it is certainly optimal to hold off on booking tours until you actually arrive in-country. You will find dozens more options and lower prices than if you simply try to book through a travel agent or internet site from abroad. Get recommendations from other travelers, and always try to book locally for the best prices and a more genuine experience.

• International Tour Agencies vs. Local Tour Agencies
• The 5 Fundamentals of Budget Travel in the Developing World

I was wondering if there is a time of the year to go to Europe for the best value? I would love to go but have a budget.

Andrew Nystrom, Web Travel Editor: Sounds like there’s a consensus here in our physical chat room at winter is, in many ways, the best time to visit Europe. I’ll let Jane expand…

Jane Engle, Staff Writer: Hi, cbtrav: Good call. You’ve picked the cheapest season to go to Europe. And since so much fun stuff is indoors–food, concerts, museums and more–weather isn’t big factor. As for when to buy: I’d buy now, if I saw a good fare. From L.A., that’s anything less than about $800 off-season.

Jen Leo, Travel Deal Blogger: I spent part of the winter in Europe about 3.5 years ago and loved the difference. I spent two weeks in Belgium (Waterloo) and traveled around. I particularly enjoyed the holiday fairs

Jen Leo, Travel Deal Blogger: Mediapile and Chris, I read the EuroCheapoBlog to stay on top of all Europe deals and to gather resources: http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/

My Comments

I think a lot of people write-off travel in Europe during the winter months, assuming that it’s just too cold to do anything. That’s why I really liked Jane Engle’s point that when you think about it, a large portion of the attractions in Europe are indoors. Museums, concerts, historical sites, and soaking up the culture in a local cafe, bar, or pub. There are far less tourists, airfares drop, and many hotels and hostels lower their prices. All of these factors make Europe a very appealing destination for wintertime travelers.

My one recommendation would be to try to travel in the “snowy” months as opposed to the “cold rainy” months. European sites look amazing under a fresh coat of snow, but they can be miserable during a cold dreary rain.

• Winter International Airfare Deals: How much does the price actually drop?

Again, to read the full transcript, please check out the following link:
http://travel.latimes.com/articles/la-trw-travel-chat-100807-transcript?page=1

Enjoy this post?

Subscribe to more great free content from Go Budget Travel through my RSS Feed or by Email!