By Monica Buchanan Pitrelli  |  December 15, 2021

“Plan for the arc of the trip. Think of a trip like a story with a beginning, middle and end. For example, plan to have the nicest hotels at the end, building up to end on a great note. Then for the entry and exit, plan for ways you can ensure they go smoothly. Maybe it’s arranging private transport after a long flight, so you don’t have to navigate the public transit system amid jetlag. Whatever a solid arc looks like to you, plan it in advance.”
Sarah Groen, founder of the luxury travel company Bell & Bly Travel Design

“If you’re planning to do some Greek island-hopping, keep in mind that Greeks themselves tend to stick to one island instead of cramming as many as they can into a single trip. Think thematically: Santorini has stunning scenery, but beaches are better in Mykonos … [but] islands like Tinos and Syros have great food and culture with significantly lower hotel prices than Mykonos. Crete has lots of variety, but a car is essential.”
—Anthony Grant, American writer based in Greece

Tips for flying during the holidays

“Choose early morning flights, which are typically less crowded. Avoid taking the last flight of the day whenever possible, especially during the winter months to reduce the chances of missed connections or delays due to cancellations or weather. … Opt for carry-on luggage on your next trip. You’ll skip lines when you arrive at the airport and won’t have to wait for luggage when you land.”
—Anna Brown, public relations manager at Expedia U.S. 

Read the full article at NBC Los Angeles