22 worldtravellermagazine.com
KNOW-HOW
Julia Broome, product manager at dnata Travel, gives us the inside track
on some of the most frequently asked questions about travelIf I book trip at the last minute,
am I likely to get a better deal?
It depends on how flexible you’re
willing to be. Availability will always
naturally be pressed closer to the time
of travel and popular resorts, flights
and tours, for instance, more likely to
be occupied. Overall, it’s typically more
cost effective to book in advance. If
you are flexible, you may be able to
secure a last-minute deal to more of
an off-the-beaten-track destination.
Instead of travelling to France, for
example, try an up-and-coming
destination in Eastern Europe. Or you
could travel at an off-peak time.
Is there anything I can do to boost
my chance of a flight upgrade
without having to pay for it?
Joining frequent flyer programmes
is the best way. Each airline has a
different upgrade process, however,
for the majority, passengers that
reach the highest tier of the loyalty
programme are more likely to be
upgraded if the flight is overbooked.
Seasoned travellers and members
of such programmes will know that
dressing appropriately, and checking
in later, can sometimes provide a
better opportunity for an upgrade,
depending on availability. Travelling
solo and without excessive luggage
can also work in your favour, but
nothing is ever guaranteed.
If I want a room upgrade, is it best
to negotiate before I arrive or once
I’m there?
Join hotel brand loyalty programmes
to experience additional benefits
during your stay including potential
room upgrades. If you have a particular
room or suite in mind, it’s always best
to book in advance. You are less likely
to be upgraded if you have booked
The Knowledge
the lowest tier of room, or if you are
looking to stay for a significant period
of time.What are the key times of year
to keep an eye open for the best
holiday deals?
Hotels and airlines can have sales at
any time of year. In the lead up to
public holidays, long weekends and
school breaks, we will start to promote
our best deals in advance so always
look out for this. If you’re able to be
flexible, we’d recommend booking
your holiday at off-peak times or the
days directly before or after these
holidays commence.When I’m booking through a
travel agent, are the prices I see
negotiable?
You have to be able to be flexible.
Cheaper sale airfares are restricted to
certain dates, for example. One of thebest reasons to book via a travel agent
is that they can help you to customise
your trip to achieve the best price
possible. If you are open to taking a
travel agent’s advice, they have the
knowledge and skills to find you the
best prices depending on variables
such as times, locations, flight duration,
group versus smaller tours and the like,
so can find the best solution for you.Can I get a better price for paying
in full at time of booking?
Some hotels and resorts offer the
ability to pay a deposit and then the full
amount at the time of departure. When
accommodation or airlines have special
rates on, you typically have to pay in
full at the time of booking, but you
can benefit from cheaper rates. Hotels
can offer cheaper prices on a non-
refundable basis so again it all depends
on how set you are on your chosen
holiday or how flexible you want to be.HOW TO...
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Emirates airline Zero-gravity position in the Boeing 77 First Class Suites