Useful links.
If you want a useful link added, I'm all ears. Email me at Alex@flybudget.com
Air Travel.
The problem with my site is that it doesn't list intercontinental budget airlines. This is because none exist yet (though as of Nov 2008 Ryanair are close to launching one). Being cramped on a no frills airline for 3-4 airlines is doable, anything more isn't really. You get hungry, and you want to watch films and so forth. Given the new market forces in operation in the airline market since September 11th, a major price war is on, and only the fit will survive. Couple this with the massive impact the internet has had on the airline ticketing market and bargains can be had aplenty:
- http://www.statravel.com If you're a student or under 26 this should be the first stop for you. They're set up especially for you and the staff are students themselves. I always shop around when buying tickets and they've been unbeatable price wise several times. The staff are very helpful, very knowledgeable and even if you hate the website you can always talk to a human being. They also set up package tours and provide overly expensive insurance (which I've bought) but it is extremely extensive insurance! They're operational in numerous countries around the world, so this isn't just a UK tourist agent.
- http://www.travelocity.co.uk. You've probably seen adverts for Travelocity on the web. Some people can't afford to advertise but they are still out there. But then they're big. Very big. The above link links you to the .co.uk site, but they have a .com if you're not British. It requires registration which is irritating, but check out their price indicators - you can set up to 5 automatic warnings to alert you to significant price changes. Which means that if you're lucky, you too could get a LHR -> JFK return for £175.
- http://www.opodo.co.uk Also with a .com address for non Brits, it's the new kid on the block but it's growing fast. There are lots of bargains on the site and it's got a good design. The bad news is that a) It's owned by a whole bunch of airlines, not an independent travel agent, b) Unlike travelocity, the offers are extremely difficult to pin down! Using the LHR-> JFK example again, they promised me it would be 188 quid including taxes but surprise surprise, pick almost any flight you want, and it's £698.50. I don't think so. I've yet to buy, but it'll be a while before I do I think.
- Try Cheapflights.com, the travel search engine where you can search for flights by price, date, or airline. The flight guides have useful information on getting there, what to do, and practical tips on getting around.
European Railways.
If you can't see the country you need, try clicking here.
Miscellaneous.
The following are other travel sites that don't fit into the categories above:-
- www.hostels.com A substantial and informative hostel guide includes photos, reviews, and online reservations with a live availability calendar for thousands of hostels worldwide.
- www.sleepinginairports.net Self explanatory, but very good. Used by myself, plus several of my friends, and the tips work.
- www.lonelyplanet.com Lonelyplanet's website. Awarded the best travel site in the prestigious webby awards. So worth viewing then.
- www.travelpackers.comA must use for any aspiring backpacker out there. Particularly useful is the ability to record your trip for everyone back home.