Being unable to travel abroad during the pandemic meant many people re-thought their holiday time, with many opting for weekend breaks rather than two-week packages. This option seems to be here to stay with travel companies reporting the continued popularity of the ‘staycation’ despite international holidays becoming more available. There is no doubt that once British holidaymakers realised the UK can hold its own against foreign counterparts, they have become ever keener to explore what their home country has to offer.
HOME AND AWAY
Rolling countryside, fish and chips by the sea and an abundance of cream teas, heritage and historic sites have all combined to make the weekend break something of an established custom. While weekend breaks have always been seen as a cheaper alternative to other types of holidays, this can be misleading as costs can mount up. A three-day weekender can end up costing almost as much as a one-week package holiday.
HOW TO CURB EXPENSE?
Firstly, it depends on the destination. It might be obvious but the further afield the weekend break is, the more it is going to cost to get there. Check out the mileage if driving against the price of a train or coach ticket and there could be savings there. Also, think about what you would like to do and what the weather might be like. If you stay somewhere with little to offer in terms of indoor attractions, you could be stuck for entertainment if it rains.
ALL INCLUSIVE
Think, as well, about what is included in the price of your weekend break. If you choose an Airbnb or Glamping break, for example, this may not include anything other than the accommodation. That means factoring in breakfast or toiletries and possibly even bedding and towels. Some mes it is worth considering all-inclusive breaks, even for the weekend. These don’t just mean you get all your food and drink as part of the package. It can also include much more in the price such as the use of spa facilities and entertainment and drink. For example, sometimes it is worth considering all-inclusive breaks, even for the weekend. These don’t just mean you get all your food and drink as part of the package. It can also include much more in the price such as the use of spa facilities, activities and entertainment and drink. For example, you can stay in top-class hotels in outstanding locations across the country for two or three nights where breaks include all meals, access to a leisure centre, pool, spa and a huge range of activities – from fitness classes to garden tours and live evening shows. Think about how your weekend will pan out and whether having all these within the initial price could end up being more valuable than keeping having to pay as you go.
SIGHTSEEING
Many weekend breaks involve sightseeing and exploring a new neighbourhood. It can often be a bonus if there are organised trips, to save having to spend valuable time researching and sorting out timetables. City tours visiting historic old towns and magnificent palaces, guided walks through botanical gardens, trips to National Parks and more are often well worth considering and can often be organised by hotels as part of your visit.
FACLITLIES
Check out whether your accommodation has basic facilities – from a kettle to make a cup of tea, to free Wi-Fi, access to gyms, pools and your own TV. Without these, the costs can again rise, turning what looks like a cheap break into a far more expensive one.
EXPLORE BRITIAN
As the British holidaymaker has decided that the weekend break is here to stay there will be more opportunities s to explore what the UK has to offer. This can be anything from low budget independent trips to days full of relaxation, entertainment and top-rated dining. Whatever your choice, take time to check out the hidden costs and make sure you can make the most of where you are going without any surprises.