Plan summer vacations NOW with discount flight prices

The current global economy finds itself in a tight spot. Several words continually ring out in newspapers, evening news reports, and personal conversations: “recession,” “depression,” “inflation,” “stimulus,” and so on. “Travel” and “vacation” aren’t thrown in that mix very often. Travel is considered a luxury more and more these days as people’s wallets feel the pinch of the economic crisis--but there’s a silver lining for the budget-weary travel lover.

According to a Washington Post article published this past Saturday, NOW is the time to book flights, thanks to the recession. In the past, airlines were able to charge exorbitant rates for flights—prices kept creeping up, flying to Europe suddenly cost close to $1,000. Airlines were forced to cover the rising cost of fuel and other necessities at the customer’s expense. But the travel industry has taken a hit since the fall when the financial situation worsened. Individuals and companies aren’t booking nearly as many leisure and business trips in order to avoid budget deficits. These days, there are more empty seats on planes than usual.

In an attempt to attract more business and hopefully fill those open seats, airlines have been slashing prices since last fall. There are now reasonable deals on flights to major European cities, and Southwest Airlines has a large base at BWI Airport, offering affordable rates within the states. The Post explained that, “The steady stream of price cuts continued over the winter holidays. Now the discounting is spreading into the spring and summer -- historically the strongest profit period for airlines as travelers take vacations.” One professional claimed, “‘We’ll never see these prices again outside of a recession.’”

This is great news for those of us who love the idea of dropping everything, escaping to a new place, and forgetting about life’s everyday responsibilities for 5-10 days. Start thinking now about places you’ve wanted to visit, and set aside some earnings for your vacation fund because the summer holidays are only three months away. Take advantage of many airfare price cuts, and book your getaway excursions A.S.A.P.

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