It's already late July and many property owners abroad still have dates with no-one staying. It's a great time to book last minute villa holidays in Europe.
With both your destinations and dates. If you need exact dates, exact times, or an exact destination - then often last minute will not work for you. Looking online, you might get lucky, but more often than not you won't find exactly what you want. If you go to a travel agent and tell them you need exact dates and location then they will know not to offer you extra discounts even if they can find something for you! Last minute works best if you are able to say to yourself "I want a city break some time in the next week or 2" or "I want sun, sea and sand and to leave as soon as possible". This gives you lots of flexibility and lots of opportunity to get the best deal.
If you're not going too far - why not book a villa through a villa rental website and then book the ferry and drive yourself. This can often be a lot cheaper than flying and will also mean you don't spend as much money on taxis when you arrive.
The website may say 25% all holidays commencing in the next 2 weeks - but this often means they are desperate. Mention that you are going to book something straight away if they give you the right price and never sound happy with their first offer. Always aim for at least 40% off if it's last minute.
If you are speaking to someone - and sound desperate to get somewhere no matter what - then they will find it for you...with a hefty price tag! Never sound desperate.
If you can drive then you can save a lot of money on transport when you get there. It can also really help you if you stay in a villa to stock up on big bottles of water, big bang of crisps, cheese, bread, and things you can eat for breakfast, lunch and some of your evening meals. Eating out may be cheaper than in the UK but it is usually still a lot cheaper to eat in. Mix it up and have a couple of special meals out and on days when you are enjoying other activities then eat in.
If you have any other ideas, comments or suggestions then please post below and if any of them are good - I'll include them in my next post!
