Useful Travel Websites

Last Updated on Monday, 05 September 2011 12:57

Attention: open in a new window.

Because we know how confusing it can be trying to figure out what companies offer the best travel deals, we have put together a list of some websites and travel companies that our team have used in the past to get great deals.

Travel information:

STA Travel www.statravel.co.nz
STA has a great website that allows you to map out your trip around the world- calculating the cost and the most efficient way of getting to your destinations.
STA also has some really great student deals, and packages for young people looking to travel with other people your age.

NZ Embassy www.nzembassy.com
Find out where NZ embassies are around the globe, and important travel information relating to your destination.

Lonely Planet www.lonelyplanet.com
Lonely Planet has a comprehensive website with lots of cool forums where you can ask questions to fellow travellers and expect a really quick response. This is great for finding out about destinations where there is often little about at your local library, and for getting up to date information about places to stay and eat while you are away.

Travel Doctor www.traveldoctor.co.nz
When traveling to tropical or developing countries it is alwyas good to check out this website to find out what vaccinations are recommended before you depart. Make sure to check it out a few months before you go as there may be some vaccinations you need to get that take a while to kick in.

Backpackers:

Depending on where you are traveling, you can usually find good deals for backpackers online. There are hundreds of sites dedicated to backpackers and backpacker accommodation, so make sure you check these out. It’s often a good idea to book your accommodation online as there are sometimes last minute or special deals going.

Tour companies:

If you are thinking about travelling by yourself consider doing a tour. Yeah, they’re often more expensive than if you were to do it independently, but there is something appealing about not having to stress about where you are going to stay and how much things are going to cost, because your accommodation and most of the activities are included in the price of the tour. Hunt around though, as there is always a bit of variation in prices.

Kumuka www.kumuka.com

Contiki www.contiki.com

Intrepid www.intrepidtravel.com

Our research led us to www.geckosadventures.com which seemed to have some really competitive deals, the added benefit of local guides, and a generally younger target audience.

Tours are a good way to meet other people, and develop friendships that could come in handy when you are looking for places to stay across the globe...