We all love holidays!

There's nothing like a tough year to make us feel like we deserve a break. At last, the sun is shining and the holiday season is upon us, sadly nothing puts a damper on holiday plans quite like a massive global financial crisis.  

• Do you think people are afraid taking holidays will affect their job security?

Household budgets are tight, flights are being cancelled, travel warnings are being issued; no wonder the holiday industry is reporting a downturn. They're scrambling for our business.

• Where are the best bargains to be had?

The dollar's a worry, but domestic air travel has never been so affordable; it's a big country.

• How much of Australia have you seen?

It's easy to get caught up in the humdrum and miss the magic in your own backyard.

• Have you ever played tourist in your own town?

Often people return from a trip only to say they need a holiday to recover. For relaxation and rejuvenation, maybe nothing beats the experience of staying at home without the pressures of work.

• Tell us your tips for keeping the kids happy.

Of course, if you're a diehard traveller, staying home won't cut it.

Travelling can build character, whether it's being dragged across the Nullabor against your will in the back of your parent's car as a 10yr old, or backpacking through Europe as a carefree school leaver.

Moving outside one's comfort zone; grappling with another language, getting lost, making new friends and a few minor disasters are all the stuff memories are made of.

• What's the most important life lesson you've learnt along your travels?

Maybe you're more of a cocktail hour by the pool type of holidaymaker. There's nothing wrong with a little luxury if you can get it, especially if your aim is to return well rested. 

• Do you prefer doing it in style or on the cheap? Have your tastes changed with age?

Some people prefer to return to the same spot year after year whilst others have a long list of cities yet to be ticked off their list.

• Where's your all time favourite destination and why?

Share your Travel Tales & Tips with us. Whether you're reminiscing of yesteryear or planning your next big adventure, let us squeeze in to your suitcase and come along for a journey in our imaginations.

To contribute, simply click on "Post a comment" below.  Or go to "write a blog", or email us direct at info@openforum.com.au.

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