Why I Didn't Book the Cheapest Option (and Why You shouldn't Either)

I love traveling, that's no secret but I also like good value in the things I purchase. Just like you, I plan a trip and then budget my money so that I can make it happen. When I travel, I want the whole experience or I would just stay home. Value is not just monetary; this means different things to different people. Let me explain.

Me watching the coast as we were river cruising down the Danube River

To me it means CLEAN! I keep my house obsessively clean and I want that when I travel. I do not want a dirty bathroom (I have been know to ask for a different hotel room over this) and I want a quiet room. I do not need a room by the steps or a group of teens traveling together in a hotel that does not soundproof their rooms. I should not have to hear the person snoring in the room next to mine or be awakened by their alarm going off because I am on vacation!

I also see value in being close to activities, restaurants, shops, the beach, etc... I am willing to pay a little extra so that I can walk to access things close to me. If I go to the beach, I want to open my window and hear the ocean and walk to put my feet in the sand. Nothing is more frustrating to me than having to drive 10 minutes to the beach because I purchased the cheaper option farther away, but then get stuck in beach traffic which takes twice as long to drive in the hot car. Next, finding a parking spot and paying for parking and gas... what did I actually save? If cruising, why pay for this aweome experience but get an inside cabin when you don't have a balcony to enjoy the view? I am a foodie and if I get a night when I am not cooking, I want to enjoy delicious food that I can access easily, not drive and park.

When I travel, I get so excited to be somewhere other than home. I want new experiences and to try new things but I am not talking about spending more than my comfort zone. I don't mean staying in a castle, but that would be cool! I mean a place that fits all my needs but is worthy of the vacation I deserve. What about you? What are your non- negotiables? What are you willing to pay a little more for? Air conditioning? Breakfast included? On the beach? An all-inclusive?

Let's talk about getting you a vacation that you deserve with great value for the items that are most important to you. Contact me at lisa@customtravelbylisa.com