fares (see below) on commercial carriers are competitively priced during the winter. Fares advertised in the newspapers are usually the lowest possible, but never overlook the fine print. Charter nights allow you to stay abroad up to one year, and often let you “mix-and-match” arrivals and departures from different cities. Once you have made your plans, however, the flexibility wanes. You must choose your departure and return dates when you book your flight, and if you cancel your ticket within 14 or 21 days of departure, you will lose some or all of your money. Travel insurance usually does not cover cancellations for reasons other than serious illness, natural disaster, or death (in which case you wouldn’t want to go anyway).

Although charter flights are cheaper, figure in the being crowded and spending your vacation waiting in the majestic airports of the world. Ask a travel agent about the charter company’s reliability. Companies reserve the right to cancel flights up to 48 hours before departure. Though charters will do their best to find you another flight, the delay could be days, not just hours. The companies also reserve the right to add fuel surcharges even after you have made final payment. To be sure you’re on your flight, pick up your ticket well before the departure date and arrive at the airport several hours early. Charter companies often have messy reservation systems.