Planning

Practicalities Types of Holiday Independent Planning 

Although it is in the nature of things that independent travel is more flexible, it is important to have a well thought out framework from which, when appropriate, you can deviate.

It is particularly important to do lots of research about what you will find when you get there, including the nature of any medical support. The more off the beaten track the destination, the less you can hope for in the way of genuine help from the tourist office. Instead you should turn to backpacking guides which are specifically designed to help those dealing with nitty gritty issues.

A detailed itinerary is a good idea. Handling day to day issues will take up a reasonable amount of your time and it is fair to assume that you want time to enjoy wherever it is you are visiting. You may wish to adjust the timetable once you are actually on the spot but a degree of predictability is likely to make everyone feel more secure.

Even if you choose to book the rest of your accommodation as you go along, do consider booking somewhere to stay for your first night if you are going to be travelling any distance to your destination.

This means that you don't waste time when you are already tired on arrival but instead can all wake rested and sally forth to assess where it is that you might really like to be. This is particularly true if you are going to be arriving in the evening or night or anywhere where there might be a shortage of accommodation. This includes a significant number of capital cities.

Although such bookings are never 100% guaranteed, it is a good idea to get a confirmation e-mail or fax which if the worst comes to the worst you can wave at reception.

Until you have acclimatised to your destination, aim for somewhere relaxed and comfortable. Once you have got used to how things work you will be in a better position to economise. By the same token, take enough basics like snacks for the first few days so you don't have to start rushing round and finding out where shops are and their opening times.

It is important that you have at the back of your mind an alternative course of action. If you miss a train or plane what are alternative routes to your destination - for example by travelling to somewhere nearby and then hiring a taxi or car for the last stretch. Possible places for an overnight stop while organising this would also be useful.

This again means that a guidebook providing information on accommodation in your price range, could turn out to be vital.