ATOL v ABTA: What is the Difference

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When you book a holiday, there’s always a moment where you hand over your payment and think: “That’s a lot of money… I hope it’s safe until I travel.” At ItsSo Travel, we want you to know exactly how your payments are handled — because your trust means everything to us. And we believe that clear, open answers are the best way to build that trust. The Truth About How We Handle Your Holiday Payments Unlike some businesses where payments go straight into their company bank account, we operate under a Trust Account model . Here’s what that means in plain English: We never hold your holiday money in our own bank account. Your payment goes directly into a separate, independent trust account that is ring-fenced for your booking only . The money stays there until you actually go on holiday . Only then is it released to the tour operator, cruise line, or holiday company providing your trip. 

Tired of the same old Christmas market crowds in the usual big cities? This year, why not trade the familiar for something truly magical and unique? We've scoured Europe to bring you six enchanting, lesser-known Christmas markets that offer authentic charm, unique traditions, and unforgettable festive experiences, far from the bustling throngs of Munich or Prague. Get ready to unwrap a different kind of Christmas wonder! 1. Colmar, France: A Fairytale Come to Life Nestled in the heart of Alsace, Colmar is often described as a living fairytale, especially during Christmas. Its half-timbered houses, winding cobblestone streets, and canals are adorned with breathtaking lights and decorations, making it feel like stepping into a storybook. What it's known for: Colmar boasts a cozier, more intimate atmosphere compared to its larger Alsatian neighbour, Strasbourg. It's renowned for its high-quality Alsatian pottery, exquisite handmade ornaments, and a dedicated gourmet market where you can savor regional delicacies like foie gras, local cheeses, and warm spiced wine . What to expect: You'll find six distinct markets scattered throughout the charming old town, each with its own character. Expect a sensory delight of twinkling lights, festive aromas, and a warm, inviting ambiance perfect for leisurely browsing. It’s less about grand scale and more about intricate beauty and local craftsmanship. Recommended Hotel: For a charming stay right in the heart of the action, we suggest Le Colombier . Located in the picturesque Little Venice area, it offers comfort and excellent value, putting you steps away from the festive magic. 2. Montreux, Switzerland: Lakeside Wonderland & Santa's Home Perched on the shores of Lake Geneva with the majestic Alps as a backdrop, Montreux offers a Christmas market experience unlike any other. It combines traditional Swiss charm with unique, whimsical attractions. What it's known for: Montreux is famous for its "Christmas on the Quays" market, featuring over 150 chalets. But what truly sets it apart is Santa's House, accessible by a cogwheel train up to Rochers-de-Naye, where children can meet Santa himself. There's also a medieval market at the stunning Château de Chillon and a spectacular light show projected onto the Montreux Palace. What to expect: A truly magical, family-friendly atmosphere. You can wander along the lakeside promenade, enjoy traditional Swiss treats like raclette and fondue, and witness Santa "flying" across the sky in his sleigh (a clever cable car illusion!). It's a blend of traditional market stalls and unique festive entertainment. Recommended Hotel: Stay at Hotel Parc & Lac for unparalleled proximity to the market and stunning lake views, ensuring you're at the heart of the festive buzz.

Your Essential Pre-Holiday Checklist: From Packing to Local Laws

Smart Budgeting for Your 2025 Holiday: Maximizing Value Without Compromising Experience

Jet2 vs TUI vs easyJet Holidays: Which Holiday Company Is Right for You? Our comparison of the big 3 tour operators

EES & ETIAS explained for UK holidaymakers to the EU

Let’s face it — one of the first questions everyone asks when planning a holiday is: “How much is it going to cost?” And for good reason. Between flights, hotels, insurance, transfers, and extras… it can get confusing fast. That’s why we’ve created this guide — to give you real, honest insights into what holidays actually cost, what affects the price, and how we at ItsSo Travel help you make the most of your budget. Whether you're dreaming of a relaxing beach break, a luxury escape, or a fun family getaway, we’re here to break it all down. 🧾 What Makes Up the Price of a Holiday? Here’s what typically goes into the cost of your trip: ✈️ Flights (including luggage, seats, and airport taxes) 🏨 Accommodation (hotel, resort, villa, or tour) 🚖 Transfers (shuttle, private taxi, or self-drive) 🍽️ Board basis (B&B, Half Board, All-Inclusive) 🧳 Travel insurance & financial protection 🎟️ Optional extras (tours, activities, car hire) 🛂 Seasonality (travel dates and peak times) 💡 Travel agent tip: When we quote a holiday, we aim to include everything upfront — so there are no nasty surprises later. 💡 Realistic Holiday Cost Examples Here’s a rough idea of what different types of holidays might cost in 2025 — based on real bookings we make every day. 🇬🇷 European Beach Holiday (7 nights) Budget: from £1,200 for 2 adults Mid-range: £2,000–£4,000 Luxury: £5,000+ Includes return flights, hotel, transfers, and all-inclusive board 🏝️ Luxury Caribbean Escape (10 nights) Mid-range resort: £3,800–£5,000 per couple High-end (e.g. Sandals): £6,000–£9,000 Private villa or butler level: £10,000+ Includes premium flights, 5★ accommodation, private transfers, insurance 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Summer Holiday (Europe, 7 nights) Budget: £2,500–£4,500 for 4 people Mid-range : £5,000–£7,000 Luxury: £8,000+ With beachfront resort, kids’ club, family room or suite, and transfers 🚍 Escorted Tour Holiday (Europe) Entry level: £1,800–£2,500 per person Premium experience: £2,800–£4,000+ Usually includes flights, accommodation, guides, and many meals ⏱️ What Affects the Price? You’ll often see big price differences online or from week to week — and here’s why: 📆 Time of Year – School holidays and peak seasons push prices up ✈️ Flight Times – Direct flights and premium times usually cost more ⭐ Hotel Star Rating – A 3★ city stay isn’t the same as a 5★ beachfront suite 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Number of Travellers – Per person costs vary for couples vs families 🏷️ Booking Timing – Early bookings often come with extras or better rates 🔐 Travel Protection – ATOL & ABTA-covered trips offer security but may cost slightly more 💼 Is It Cheaper to Book Online? Sometimes, yes. But here’s the big question: Do you really know what you're buying? Many online prices don’t include: Luggage or seat selection Transfers to your resort Hidden resort fees or taxes Protection if something goes wrong 👩‍💻 At ItsSo Travel, we help you compare like-for-like, explain why costs vary, and give you the full picture — no guesswork required. 🧠 How We Help You Maximise Your Budget As an independent travel agency, our mission isn’t just to “book a holiday” — it’s to craft an experience that fits your budget, your style, and your expectations. Here’s how we make your money go further: 🎁 Free upgrades & exclusive deals – Thanks to our network of suppliers ✅ Price-match options – We’ll show you what you really get for your money 🚫 Avoid costly mistakes – Like picking a hotel miles from the beach or a flight with a 10-hour layover 💬 Real advice – We listen first, then guide you to the right choice 🧾 Clear, all-in pricing – So you know exactly what you're paying for 📚 More Helpful Reads on Holiday Costs 🔗 Is All-Inclusive Worth It in 2025? 🔗 How Much Does a Caribbean Holiday Cost? 🔗 Travel Agent vs Booking.com: What You’re Really Paying For 🔗 Budgeting for a Family Holiday – Our Best Tips 📞 Ready to Plan Your Trip? 💬 Chat with us or book a free holiday planning call — no pressure, just honest advice. Or download our Free Holiday Budget Planner to help figure out what’s possible for your next trip. Final Thought… If you’ve ever felt unsure about what a holiday should cost — you’re not alone. But when you plan it with someone who has your back, understands your goals, and explains the pricing honestly… you’ll not only feel more confident, you’ll get far more value for your money. That’s what we do at ItsSo Travel . Let’s craft your perfect trip — together.

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