"You Can Still Book with Confidence This Summer" – Local Travel Expert Sara Dickenson Shares Her Advice

With ongoing headlines around conflict in the Middle East, potential flight disruption and rising concerns about jet fuel shortages, many people across Alsager are understandably questioning whether now is the right time to book a summer holiday.

We spoke to local Travel Counsellor Sara Dickenson here to get her take on what's really happening — and how travellers can protect themselves.

Q: There's a lot in the news at the moment. Should people be worried about booking a summer holiday?

Sara: "I completely understand why people feel uncertain. There's a lot of noise in the press right now. But the key thing to remember is that travel is still very much happening.

Flights are operating, holidays are going ahead, and people are travelling as normal. What's important is how you interpret the information you're seeing. I always recommend following trusted travel experts like myself or Simon Calder, a trusted travel journalist, who gives clear, factual updates rather than speculation.

That doesn't change the fact that there are genuine concerns regarding jet fuel prices and shortages. The government and the airlines are, however, working to minimise disruption."

Q: So what should people in Alsager be thinking about when booking?

Sara: "It's all about protection and reassurance.

If you book a package holiday through a reputable travel professional, especially through Travel Counsellors, you're not on your own if anything changes.

We're constantly monitoring situations, and if there are disruptions, we're working behind the scenes to change flights, adjust itineraries and make sure our clients still get away wherever possible.

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And importantly, all bookings are protected by the Travel Counsellors Travel Trust Fund. So if the worst happens and we can't get you on holiday, your money is fully protected and refunded – no quibbles."

Q: What about people who prefer to book their holidays themselves?

Sara: "You absolutely can but you need to take more care.

I'd strongly recommend only booking options with 0% cancellation charges, and really checking the terms and conditions before you commit.

The biggest risk with DIY bookings is when things go wrong. For example, if a flight is cancelled while you're at the airport, you're unlikely to be able to cancel your accommodation without a hefty penalty. It's really important to understand how late you can cancel the accommodation component.

That's where having someone managing it for you makes such a difference. With Travel Counsellors, we can't prevent the disappointment but we can ensure you're not left out of pocket."

(Photo: Sara Dickenson)

Q: Are people still booking holidays locally?

Sara: "Yes, absolutely.

I'm speaking to lots of families and travellers across Alsager and beyond who still want to get away this summer. The desire to travel hasn't gone anywhere, if anything, people are valuing it more.

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What's changed is that people want reassurance. They want to know that if something unexpected happens, they're looked after."

Q: What would your advice be to someone feeling unsure right now?

Sara: "Don't let the headlines stop you from travelling. Just be smart about how you book.

Travel companies and airlines are incredibly experienced at managing disruption. Safety is always the priority, and routes are constantly reviewed and adjusted where needed.

The key is making sure you're protected and supported throughout your journey."

Q: Final thoughts?

Sara: "Summer holidays are absolutely still possible and there are some incredible trips being planned right now.

It's just about booking in a way that gives you confidence.

If you do that, you can focus on what really matters… enjoying your holiday."

If you'd like advice on planning your next trip, Sara Dickenson is a local Travel Counsellor based in the area <> and is always happy to help.

Call Sara can be contacted on 01270 917091 or email [email protected].

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