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1:00 AM 28th December 2024
travel

What NOT To Do On Your Holiday In 2025

Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay
Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay
2025 is set to be a year of adventure. But there are lots of mistakes you can make on the way. Destinations: The Holiday & Travel Show, returns to Manchester Central 16th - 19th January and Olympia London from 30th January – 2nd February, and here are their tips on what to avoid to have the perfect trip next year.

Don’t ignore passport and visa requirements

Nicky Kelvin, Editor at Large at The Points Guy says: “Unexpected events like medical emergencies or trip disruptions can be costly. Comprehensive travel insurance provides peace of mind and financial protection. Consider paying for your holiday with a credit card that offers travel disruption policies for added coverage.”

Avoid using tour guides that work for international companies

Wild Frontiers Managing Director, Clare Tobin says: “Many Brits are unaware of the impact their holiday can have on a destination, which can be positive or negative. To avoid issues like economic leakage, where tourism spend ends up elsewhere rather than supporting the local economy, avoid using tour guides that work for international companies and opt for local guides. Try not to buy in shops or eat in restaurants that are international chains and instead choose local, independent businesses.”

Don’t book last minute

Alexandra Iordan, Head of Sales and Marketing at Gulet Cruise Montenegro says: “I strongly advise against booking your holiday at the last minute, regardless of your travel destination. To ensure a high-quality experience, always plan and book your trip well in advance, allowing ample time to organise all the details and avoid the pitfalls of hasty decisions.”

Travel in shoulder season and avoid the crowds

Alexandra Iordan from Gulet Cruise Montenegro adds: “I highly recommend travelling during the shoulder season rather than peak season. This timing not only helps you avoid crowds but also lets you experience your destination at its finest.”

Don’t Overpack

Nicky Kelvin at The Points Guy says: “Resist the urge to pack for every scenario. Rolling your clothes can save space, and planning outfits in advance helps avoid unnecessary items. Remember, you can always do laundry at your destination.”

Don’t plan TOO much

Fay McCormack, General Manager of Star Clippers’ UK GSA says: “‘Don’t plan too much if you’re in need of rest and respite – you want to come home from your holiday feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, away from busy lifestyles and strict routines. Soak it all in - enjoy slow days and making memories… sometimes it’s the most simple moments, such as a coffee at sunrise in a beautiful location, that you will remember forever.”

Avoid mega cruise ships

CEO of Metropolitan Touring, Paulina Burbano de Lara says: “Avoid taking holidays on mega-cruise ships which often contribute to environmental degradation and over-tourism. Opt instead for expedition cruising, which offers a more sustainable and enriching way to explore natural habitats.”

Don’t forget the essentials

Nicky Kelvin at The Points Guy says: “Pack a universal adapter, a reusable water bottle, and any necessary medications. These small items can make a big difference in your comfort and convenience.”

Be prepared for mosquitos

Howard Carter, Founder of incognito mosquito spray says: “Don’t scramble at your destination to find decent insect repellent. Plan ahead and stock up before you go. Make sure you cover up, wear long sleeves and trousers and choose light-coloured, loose clothing. Similarly, forget about fragrances as these can make you more attractive to mosquitos! Try your best to use a natural loofah to scrub away dirt and dead skin cells before you go as mosquitos are also drawn to grime and oil on your skin. A good exfoliation can help keep you less appealing to these pesky critters.”

Don’t just visit a destination at surface level

Kelly Jackson, Managing Director, Trafalgar and Insight Vacations, EMEA says: “Ensure you don’t just visit a destination at surface level. Time and time again we tend to visit a destination, yet we barely scratch the surface. Choose holiday companies that get under the skin of a destination, its locals and its communities. Rather than observe, choose to partake, share stories, unearth the details of a destination and return home with a fresh perspective, and a newfound appreciation for a new destination.”

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