It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of last minute vacations. It’s honestly one of my favourite ways to travel! In fact, in 2019, I helped friends and family NOT-plan five family vacations – all booked with less than a month’s notice (and all beautiful, memorable getaways).
If you’re fortunate to have flexibility in your work and home life, here’s why last minute vacations are a great option:
1) You’ll save money. Of course you’ll save money – it’s the main reason they’re called last minute “deals”. With Air Canada Vacations, you can save up to 40% on packages to Mexico, the Caribbean, South and Central America, the US and many more vacation destinations.
2) You’ll save time and energy. Many people don’t account for the time they spend planning, researching, and often, over-thinking their vacation plans. If your goal is to simply escape winter or reconnect with loved ones, last minute vacations can satisfy this need efficiently.
3) You’ll expand your travel horizons. Last minute deals allow you to consider destinations that may not have been on your original shortlist, but are nonetheless attractive due to the high quality of accommodations available at a great price. I’ve vacationed in Cancun, Grand Cayman, St. Lucia and Liberia – all “plan B” options that became “plan A” thanks to an incredible last minute deal.
Okay, so you’re sold on booking last minute, but where should you travel – and when – and why should you go? Let me help you NOT-plan your getaway!
WINTER
If the weather outside is frightful, why not get away to somewhere delightful? Punta Cana (Dominican Republic), Varadero (Cuba) and Negril (Jamaica) are all family-friendly destinations that are often readily available to book at a moment’s notice. With sun-drenched days and balmy nights, an all-inclusive Caribbean vacation is the perfect prescription for winter blues.
(Tip: If you’re travelling to Punta Cana, Montego Bay, Barbados or Cancun, take advantage of daily non-stop flights from Toronto between December and April with Air Canada Vacations.)
SPRING
Spring is about renewal – and it’s a great time to renew your sense of adventure! Consider an all-inclusive vacation to travel hotspots in South and Central America such as Liberia (Costa Rica), Cartagena (Colombia), Belize, Guadeloupe or Panama. Many destinations in this region cater to eco-adventure travel, allowing you to explore wildlife-laden rainforests, ruins of ancient civilizations, sprawling barrier reefs and even looming volcanoes.
(Tip: Many travel enthusiasts consider spring to be the ideal season to visit South America; April to June follows the rainy season and the weather is pleasant with warm days and cool evenings.)
SUMMER
Fancy summer camp by the sea? There’s no better time to pack up the kids and make your way to Mexico! Riviera Maya offers the best of both worlds – gorgeous resorts alongside stunning beaches and eco-educational opportunities. Bonus: many resorts in this region are part of the Air Canada Vacations Family Collection! Keep everyone happy at resorts offering dedicated kids’ pools and supervised clubs.
(Tip: Vacation packages booked with Air Canada Vacations includes one complimentary checked bag per person, as well as transfers to and from the airport while in destination – which means one less thing to worry about, especially when booking a last minute deal!)
FALL
Fall is by far my favourite season to visit the US! Take advantage of fewer crowds at theme parks when you book a last minute vacation to Orlando, or head to Honolulu and discover the spirit of Aloha. Last minute flight and hotel packages make it easy to arrange a spontaneous weekend away with loved ones (or on your own!).
(Tip: Want to save even more? When you book with Air Canada Vacations, you can earn Aeroplan Miles and redeem your Aeroplan Miles towards your vacation package.)
Have I convinced you to NOT-plan a last minute vacation in 2020? Check out these incredible last minute deals and let me know where your travels take you!
This post is sponsored by Air Canada Vacations. The opinions on this blog, as always, are my own.
Looks like a lovely resort 🔆