Travelling & the GFC

The times are tough, and travelling may seem like the last thing any reasonable person would be thinking of doing. But in reality, now is as good a time as ever to get out there and visit that place you've always dreamed of.

A friend of mine was recently made redundant from a long-term job. Being suddenly unemployed after years of hard work was a huge shock to the system at first, but after the initial shock wore off he began to treat his unemployment as an opportunity and is now weeks away from going on a two month-long back-packing and surfing trip through India and Nepal.

If you are in a similar situation, or if you are able to get some time off and can afford to take a trip, now is as better time as any. With international flights cheap as chips and flight and tour sales available in abundance you can save yourself hundreds if you have a look. Base your travels around the sales, rather than around your dream holiday, and you'll be able to travel for longer, cheaper and are sure to enjoy yourself just as much. There are plenty of companies online who will compare cheap flights and sale prices, and many tour operators offer specials on flight and accommodation packages.

You don't need to look to far from home either to get away. Australia is a huge country with the most diverse landscape - we have absolutely everything from lengthy island beaches perfect for relaxing beach getaways or the more active surfing safaris, to snow-capped mountains for the skiers and snowboarders out there. Why not hire an RV and go for a drive through the Kimberleys, or hike through the stunning mountain ranges of Tasmania? Whatever you fancy there's a holiday just waiting for you to take it.

If you really follow finance then you'll be able to work out the most affordable destinations for you. You may find yourself looking into something that seems out of your comfort zone, but there's no time like the present to do something new!