The global economic crisis has without doubt necessitated the change of vacation plans for many people. Faced with reduced disposable incomes, some have had to cancel their Africa holiday plans altogether, while others have opted for cheaper or nearer alternative destinations, which may not be as interesting as the initially planned destination. I invite you to take part in this simple poll on the impact of the economic crisis on Africa travel plans.

The following travel tips can help you enjoy a great Africa vacation at favorable costs:

1. Do your research early: Use online resources to compare Africa packages by different providers to arrive at the best deal out there. If you also know a friend, a relative etc residing in the African country you wish to travel to, you could ask them to make recommendations, then consider those recommendations in your decision making. I’d also advise you to compare the costs of booking an entire safari as a package vis a vis booking the different services (flights, hotels, rental cars etc) independently.

2. Gang up: Where possible, travel with a group of friends, family members or relatives. That way, you will be able to distribute some of the costs among you

3. Ask for discounts: This is especially possible when you are traveling as a group. Like you, the airlines, lodges, hotels, and tour operators are feeling the effects of the recession. Many would readily extend discounts if you ask as a group. You will be shocked at the favourable group rates you can get even during the peak seasons.

4. Do as the Romans do (When you go to Rome ~): Take time to find out where the locals dine out, how they travel,etc. You are sure to find many decent, clean, and fairly priced restaurants. Where possible, use public means of transport to move around. In some cases it may also be cheaper to hire a rental car.

5. Dare to move out of your comfort zones: If you normally prefer luxury travel, try out budget travel instead. Take a train ride instead of a flight for example, lodge in camping sites instead of luxury lodges, and so on. You may get to experience a most-rewarding adventure in the process, and the real joy of traveling in the African wild.

6. Consider alternative accommodation: This is related to the above point. Vacation rentals and homestay programs are good and economical accommodation alternatives especially for groups. Apart from just being cheaper by reducing the cost-per-person, vacation rentals give you most of the luxuries of a hotel, with the added advantage of being able to personalize the service to your preferences.

7. Pack light: It will help you avoid additional airline fees for excessive baggage

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This entry was posted on Thursday, May 28th, 2009 at 9:37 am and is filed under Travel Advice. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.