Anyone who assumes that affordable summer vacations are impossible to find during peak season may be surprised. Every year, the days leading up to Tisha B'Av see a decline in demand for flights and vacation packages, and travel industry professionals say this is one of the best periods to book a summer getaway.
During the ten days preceding Tisha B'Av, demand declines as many tradition-observant Israelis reduce their travel during this period, resulting in lower prices for both flights and vacation packages. Based on experience from previous years, travelers who can be flexible with their departure dates may find fares that are tens of percent lower than those charged just one week later.
According to Nir Mazor, Vice President of Aviation Relations at Kishrei Teufa: "The ten days leading up to Tisha B'Av, which is now approaching, are traditionally marked by a significant decline in demand for flights and vacations. As a result, they create an excellent window of opportunity for travelers looking to enjoy attractive vacation prices, even at the height of the summer season. During this period, flights and vacation packages can often be found at prices that are tens of percent lower than the usual rates.
"Anyone who is able to travel during these dates can take advantage of a wide selection of affordable vacation packages to popular destinations, from the Greek islands to classic European cities such as Rome, Prague, and Barcelona, as well as both rural and urban getaways across a variety of other destinations. It is also an excellent opportunity for families, who can find deals that are significantly cheaper than typical August prices while still enjoying a high-quality summer vacation on a more comfortable budget."
Savings of Hundreds of Dollars per Family
The company points to several examples illustrating the price differences. For example, a flight to Lesvos between July 9 and July 12, including checked baggage, is available from €215 per person, compared with €280 one week later. A flight to Sicily between July 10 and July 13 starts at $239, versus $298 a week later, while flights to Tirana on the same dates are available from $279, compared with $362 one week later.
Similar price gaps can be found on other routes as well. Flights to Cyprus between July 20 and July 22 start at $299, compared with $388 one week later. Flights to Crete between July 17 and July 23 begin at $349, versus $418 a week later, while flights to Athens between July 21 and July 24 start at $345, compared with $438 one week later.
Vacation packages also show significant price differences. For example, a package to Athens between July 19 and July 22, including flights, checked baggage, accommodation, and breakfast at a four-star hotel, is still available from $539 per person based on double occupancy, while the price rises to $712 just one week later.
Ultimately, travelers who book during this period and remain flexible with their departure dates can enjoy a wider selection of discounted vacation packages to sought-after destinations across Europe and the Mediterranean - precisely during the period when holiday prices are typically expected to be at their highest.