Sun, sand, sea and culture – and if you plan it right, heading for the shores of the Mediterranean can offer fabulous value for the money as well as a vacation to remember.
This beautiful area of southern Europe and northern Africa has something for everyone, whether it’s the busy beaches of Spain, the bustling bazaars of Morocco, or the tranquility of the lesser-known Italian coastline.
Traveling
To get the very best bargains, you have two choices: Plan ahead, or take what you can get at the last minute. Although many travelers through Europe automatically think of rail travel, budget airlines like EasyJet and RyanAir mean it’s often as cheap, if not cheaper, to fly around the Med – although air and train fares usually get more expensive the closer you are to the departure date and time.
If you want to see as many countries as possible in the shortest time span, then consider a cruise. The all-inclusive packages can offer a very cost-effective way to see southern Europe, with prices starting from around £400 for 7 nights, plus flights to the country of departure, or around £600 for departures from Southampton.
If you really want to see life, then opt for one of the cut-price bus or coach operators. National Express links up with Eurolines coaches at London Victoria, then with many national companies throughout Mediterranean Europe. Bear in mind that the further east you head, the more basic the buses often become. National Express regularly offers promotional tickets from £10 upwards, although these fares offer very little flexibility.
If independence is more your style, and you like to get off the beaten track, then think about renting a car. Booking over the Internet before you leave home is your best option for keeping costs down. Many sites offer anywhere from 10% to 25% on the cost of booking via telephone or in person. Renting a car also gives you the freedom to add ferries to your itinerary between some of the port cities.
To rent a car in most Mediterranean countries you will need to be over 21, hold a valid drivers license and have current insurance. You will also usually need a major credit card: check with your car rental company at time of booking. Some countries also require you to hold an international drivers license – check out the AA guide.
For those staying in a single city, renting a bike is often another option to get around cheaply. Most cities also offer a daily or weekly ticket valid on buses within city limits. The best place to head for details is the local tourist information office, where you are almost certain to find at least some English information.
Alternatively, if you’re feeling super-energetic, get hold of a local map, lace up your hiking boots, and walk the streets of your holiday destination – although be alert if you stray out of the main tourist areas. Many cities offer free or cheap walking tours with the services of a guide – again, the tourist office can advise you.
However you decide to travel around the beautiful, friendly Mediterranean, enjoy your stay!
About the author: This article was written by resident author Martin Boulton on behalf of medwelcome.
Credits: Photo courtesy of Paco Rodriguez.