How to use Google Flights: A guide to finding flight deals – The Points Guy

Google Flights is constantly evolving, and it's the one tool I always mention when people ask me how to find better flight prices.

This easy-to-use website can help you find the best possible price on airfare (and even hotels). It's one of the biggest weapons in our arsenal at TPG to help save money on travel. While TPG does offer deal alerts, if you are looking for a particular flight, destination, airline or routing, Google Flights is the way to find personalized deals.

Google Flights is where I almost always begin my search for new bookings. I come back to it again and again to book trips, see if prices have dropped and check if I can get a better deal.

Here's everything you need to know to use and master Google Flights.

Source: How to use Google Flights: A guide to finding flight deals – The Points Guy

Top August 2023 Travel Destinations: From Women’s World Cup to Hot Air Balloon Festivals

Top August 2023 Travel Destinations
Image by Julius Silver from Pixabay

August is a month of freedom and adventure, perfect for those who want to explore new places and experience different cultures. There are numerous travel destinations to choose from, each offering its own unique attractions and experiences.

From international events like the FIFA Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand to local festivals and activities like hot air balloon festivals in Indiana, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at the top August travel destinations around the world. We'll explore the various events and activities that make each destination unique, as well as provide recommendations for accommodation options.

Whether you're a sports fan, a foodie, or simply looking to escape the routine of daily life, we've got you covered. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure-filled August!

Key Takeaways

  • August is a great time to travel to various destinations around the world, including Australia, New Zealand, Trondheim, Quebec, Hamilton County, Isla Mujeres, and Hot Springs.
  • Baymont by Wyndham Hot Springs and Asbury Ocean Club Hotel are recommended accommodations for travelers.
  • Asbury Park, New Jersey, is a must-visit destination in August, offering beautiful beaches, a revitalized boardwalk, unique shops, gourmet restaurants, and exciting attractions like The Osprey, Madam Marie's Temple of Knowledge, and the Springsteen E Street Band Tour.
  • The author provides TPG tips for accommodations in each destination, highlights unique attractions and experiences, and encourages readers to sign up for The Points Guy's daily newsletter and special email promotions.

International Events

International events such as the FIFA Women's World Cup championship in Australia and New Zealand and the Isla Mujeres Foundation Festival in Mexico are among the recommended August travel destinations, according to travel writer Jordi Lippe-McGraw.

The FIFA Women's World Cup championship is set to take place from July 20 to Aug. 20, drawing in soccer fans from all over the world. The event will be hosted by two countries, Australia and New Zealand, and will feature the top female soccer players from around the globe. It is an excellent opportunity for sports enthusiasts to witness world-class soccer and explore the unique cultures of both countries.

Apart from the highly anticipated soccer event, Isla Mujeres, Mexico, offers the Isla Mujeres Foundation Festival in August. The festival is a celebration of the work done by the foundation to protect the environment and marine life. It features music, dance, and various activities that promote environmental awareness.

August is also a peak season for encountering whale sharks in the region, making it an ideal time for nature lovers. The festival and the chance to swim with whale sharks make Isla Mujeres a unique destination that combines environmental awareness with adventure and excitement.

Local Festivals and Activities

In various locations, visitors can take part in local festivals and activities during the month of August.

Trondheim, Norway hosts the Trondelag Food Festival and Trondheim Brewery Festival from Aug. 3 to 5, offering foodie adventures for travelers.

Meanwhile, Hamilton County, Indiana offers the new Carmel Jazz Festival on Aug. 11 and 12, featuring live performances from local and international musicians, as well as recreational activities and over 90 local restaurants.

August is also a peak season for encountering whale sharks in Isla Mujeres, Mexico, making it an ideal destination for those seeking underwater adventures.

Isla Mujeres also hosts the Isla Mujeres Foundation Festival in August, which aims to promote sustainable tourism and conservation efforts.

With a variety of activities for travelers to choose from, August offers a range of exciting experiences for those looking to explore the world and make the most of their summer vacation.

Accommodation Recommendations

Regarding the topic of accommodation, travelers visiting the 7 best places to travel in August have various options to choose from.

For those visiting Hot Springs, South Dakota, Baymont by Wyndham Hot Springs is a recommended option. The hotel offers comfortable and affordable accommodations for budget-conscious travelers.

As for those visiting Asbury Park, New Jersey, the hip Asbury Ocean Club Hotel is a popular choice. This hotel offers luxurious amenities with a beachfront location, but at a higher price point. However, visitors can use Chase Ultimate Rewards points or pay $652 per night to book a room at the hotel.

It is important to note that other budget-friendly accommodations are available in each destination, and travelers should research and compare various options before booking their stay.

However, the recommended hotels provide a good starting point for those seeking comfortable and convenient accommodations during their travels.

Overall, the availability of various hotel options ensures that travelers can find suitable accommodations that meet their needs and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some recommended modes of transportation to get to these August travel destinations?

For comfortable travel to August destinations, pack essentials such as sunscreen and comfortable shoes. Best routes and convenient transportation options vary by destination. Research local options and consider renting a car or using public transportation for cost-effective travel.

Are there any specific cultural events or festivals in these destinations that are not mentioned in the article?

Some of the August travel destinations discussed in the article have specific cultural festivities and local traditions that are not mentioned. For example, Isla Mujeres, Mexico, hosts the Dia de la Independencia celebration on September 16th, while Trondheim, Norway, has a Viking Festival in August.

What are some recommended budget-friendly accommodation options in these destinations?

For budget-friendly accommodations, solo travelers can consider hostels, homestays, or Airbnb rentals. Researching deals and booking in advance can also save money. Be sure to check reviews and locations before booking.

Are there any visa or travel requirements for international travelers visiting these destinations in August?

International travelers visiting the recommended August travel destinations may need to check visa requirements and COVID-19 restrictions. It is also advisable to purchase travel insurance and exchange currency. Check the embassy website for the latest information.

What are some recommended outdoor activities or excursions to do in these destinations?

Visitors to these destinations can enjoy a range of outdoor activities. Quebec City offers hiking trails and water activities on the Saint Lawrence River. Isla Mujeres is ideal for snorkeling and swimming with whale sharks. Hot Springs, South Dakota, has hiking trails in Wind Cave National Park. Hamilton County, Indiana, has recreational activities like kayaking and fishing. Asbury Park, New Jersey, has stunning beaches for swimming and surfing. Australia and New Zealand offer opportunities for water activities like surfing and paddleboarding.

How to use Google Flights: A guide to finding flight deals

The one tool I always mention when people ask me how to find deals on travel is Google Flights. This easy-to-use website can help you find the best possible price on airfare (and even hotels). It's one the biggest weapons in our arsenal at The Points Guy to help save money on travel. While TPG does offer deal alerts, if you are looking for a particular flight, destination, airline or routing, Google Flights is the way to find personalized deals.

Google Flights is where I almost always begin my search for new bookings, and I come back to it, again and again, to book trips and see if prices have dropped and if I can get a better deal.

Here's everything you need to know to use and master Google Flights.

What is Google Flights?

Google Flights is one of our favorite tools for finding deals on flights. It’s an amazingly powerful flight search engine, and the best part is that it's easy to use. Google shows you nearly all available flights for a given search but doesn't force you to book with them.

Unlike Expedia, Orbitz, Tripadvisor or Kayak, it's not an online travel agency. Google is simply showing you what's available. Once you find the flights you like, you “click through” to actually book. You can choose to book directly with the airline or via a third-party OTA, but not Google itself.

One frustrating note is that Google Flights does not show Southwest Airlines flights, so keep that in mind as you search.

Source: How to use Google Flights: A guide to finding flight deals – The Points Guy

When is the best time to book flights for the cheapest airfare in 2023? – The Points Guy

The start of a new year means an entire year of trips to plan.

Let's face it, travel is expensive. While we aim to provide strategies for securing the cheapest airfare, your ability to find that elusive airline deal boils down to a few factors.

In a normal year, flights during the summertime and holidays are notoriously expensive. Now factor in that this is a year when inflation, limited flights and high travel demand have driven up the cost of air travel.

Have you ever heard that booking a flight on a certain day of the week will yield the cheapest results?Perhaps you're thinking of a cousin who claims he found a great deal when he checked on airfare prices at 12:01 a.m. on a Wednesday. Maybe you have a friend who swears by setting a reminder on her phone for 1 p.m. on a Thursday when she’s shopping for flights.Indeed, there is no shortage of rumors (and “studies”) out there, but does the time of day you purchase flights actually make a difference in what you pay? Could it help you save at a time when so many other expenses are piling up?TPG spoke to airfare experts about how timing influences airfare prices to help you maximize airfare savings this year.

Source: When is the best time to book flights for the cheapest airfare in 2023? – The Points Guy

Check to See If Your Upcoming Flight is Cheaper Now Due to Coronavirus

If you have a flight coming up soon, then you might be considering rebooking it. An airplane obviously isn’t the most ideal place to be right now given coronavirus concerns. While rebooking your flight might give you some peace of mind, it can also help you save some cash.

Source: Check to See If Your Upcoming Flight is Cheaper Now Due to Coronavirus