I will be honest – I hate package holidays! Or, at least I thought I did! I’m a seasoned traveller and I tend to associate package holidays with overpriced, un-cultured resorts with bars full of drunk people! The first time I ever went on a package holiday was to Greece, I was bored by day 3 and entertaining myself at night on the Karaoke.
Personally, I am more of a culture vulture. I like to book a flight with three nights in a youth hostel, max, and off I go. I love to venture off the beaten track. I thrive on learning local languages. I enjoy photography. I eat local cuisine.
Reasons to Book a Package Holiday
A few years ago, my husband actually convinced me to book a full board package holiday to Tenerife. It’s been a tough few months as I had to have a minor op, and we have had a few personal things going on too. We were in need of a relaxing, chilled out holiday, mainly to spend time together. I then realised that sometimes, it’s nice to having everything provided for you and meals included.
Top reasons to book a package holiday….
- No need to worry about cash during the holiday, particularly if food and drinks are included.
- Stress and hassle free, with airport transfers.
- Often works out cheaper than booking a separate flight and hotel.
- On site rep to help you to book excursions.
- ATOL Protected.
I was particularly interested in travelling to the Canary Islands. The Canary Islands offer a good climate in September. Our chosen destination, Tenerife, was actually cheaper to book as a package, than if we booked our hotel and flights separately, so I took the plunge and agreed to the first package holiday I’ve done in years!
First Class Escape Lounge Manchester Airport
We started our holiday in style by checking into the first class Escape lounge at Manchester airport. Because I have a Priority Pass, we can get into first class lounges at a discounted rate. Once you are in the lounge, all food and drinks are included, and there is free WIFI.
If you have an afternoon flight, upgrading to a first class lounge is definitely worth it!
My Digital Detox
Very rarely have I been on the road without WIFI access and blogging, but as this was a holiday with my partner, for the first 2 full days, I embraced a full digital detox. I’m usually tweeting and blogging daily on a trip, so this was a massive challenge for me, but much needed!
I recommend a digital detox for all bloggers and travellers, as it really helps to clear your head. No, you don’t have to be available online 24/7.
A Week in the Sun with my Fiance!
This week, we spent time reading, chilling, eating and drinking in the sun. We decided to take a few tours, but it’s nice to not have to constantly think about where you are going next, or which attraction you want to cover. I focused this week on doing things for us, not just because they would look good on my blog. Do I feel better for it? Hell yeah!
We booked with Thomsons, but it was quite a busy plane with screaming kids, and our holiday rep didn’t turn up very much, so we ended up booking the excursions ourselves. If you are well travelled like us, you won’t need to wait around for the rep – most holiday places, you can find excursions easily.
We stayed at the Be Live Orotava hotel, which was very good value. The buffet lunch and dinners were very good, with plenty of choice and daily Paella!
I’m a Package Holiday Convert!
So, here’s the thing about package holidays – if you are alone, or with a dysfunctional or argumentative family, it can be crap! But, when you have someone special to spend it with, it’s an absolute blessing. This is not my usual way to travel, but I will be happy to fit this in at least once a year, for the good of my health and relationship!
In need of recharging your batteries with your partner? Relieve the stress and recognise that there are some occasions when a package holiday is not only desirable, but necessary!
If you need a package holiday and want to book online, you can book with EasyJet Holidays or Opodo. Also, don’t forget your travel insurance and travel money (I use the Post Office).