The easiest way to begin planning a holiday is not always by searching for flights. Start with the experience you want.

Are you looking for rest, exploration, family time, culture, adventure or a combination of several things? Your answer can help shape the destination, length of stay and pace of the journey.

Consider the season, the amount of time available and how much travel between destinations you are comfortable with. A shorter trip may benefit from staying in one place, while a longer journey can allow for more variety.

Budget is important too, but it should be considered alongside priorities. Some travellers prefer to spend more on accommodation, while others value experiences, food or private transport.

Once these decisions are clear, the practical details become much easier to arrange. Good travel planning is about making choices that fit together rather than simply collecting bookings.