Why you should book your end of year holiday now

After working hard throughout the year, very little compares to the excitement of counting down the days to a well-deserved holiday over the festive season, however, even a holiday requires planning.

Studies reveal the numerous health benefits of taking a holiday, such as reduced stress levels and improved cardiovascular health. Missing just one holiday can increase your stress levels and heighten the risk of heart disease.

The statistics highlight what we already know: Taking a holiday will leave you energised and feeling healthier, and ready to tackle the year ahead with renewed verve and vigour.

And with the holiday season just a few months away, there are five essential reasons why you shouldn’t put off booking your December holiday, explains Danny Bryer, area director, sales and marketing for Protea Hotels by Marriott International, Middle East and Africa.

1. An energy boost to take you to the end

Most people experience a dip in energy around this time of year. The perfect antidote is to book your summer holiday and give yourself something to work towards. Knowing you have a holiday waiting for you will keep you motivated to complete the hard tasks, and once you’re back at work you’ll be more productive with your energy levels topped up, ensuring that you can start the next year in your best shape.

2. Save, save, save

Making use of those specials ensures you get a great deal on accommodation and travel, leaving more spending money in the holiday budget for you and the family.  Flights are cheaper if you buy them in advance, and hotels often offer special deals starting in September, such as Protea Hotels by Marriott’s advanced booking offer.

3. Booking motivates you to save

Instead of spending all your time deliberating whether you have enough saved up to book your dream holiday, take the leap now and make that booking so that you can spend the remaining time saving up or paying off your tickets and accommodation. You’ll be motivated to save once you’ve got that booking, and you won’t stand the chance of missing out on your holiday.

4. The early bird gets the … best rooms

If you’ve ever missed out on your favourite destination because you left your booking too late, you’ll know that the earlier you book, the better your chances are of nabbing the best rooms at your dream destination. Many hotels start offering specials immediately after winter to fill their rooms over the festive season, so make sure you get your booking in early while there is still space and a wider choice.

5. Plan your way

Once you’ve booked your holiday early, you’ll have more time to research local attractions and plan your itinerary, ensuring that you experience the best of your destination. For most, planning your trip can be half the fun, and the sooner you make your booking, the more time you’ll have to throw yourself into the other details.

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