USEFUL TOOLS · AROUND THE WORLD WITH ROB
Use Trip Sense’s itinerary checker to spot rushed plans before you book. You can also compare the total cost of two travel options and explore where to stay in London, Paris or Rome. First, try the examples. Then replace them with your own route, figures and preferences.
My rule is simple: a trip needs time to enjoy the place, not just reach it. These free tools give you a starting point for better decisions. However, the results depend on what you enter, so check your figures and allow for the way you actually travel.
First, enter your stops in travel order. Include the full journey between them, with time for waiting and transfers. Then choose your pace and the hours you expect to have for sightseeing. Also, adjust the arrival, departure and hotel-change settings to suit your trip.
Next, review the result and try a slower version of the same route. For example, remove a stop or add a night. Compare the two plans before deciding what to book. The itinerary checker uses your inputs and planning assumptions; it does not check live transport schedules.
A cheaper room or flight can bring extra costs. Therefore, compare options for the same dates, trip and travel party. Enter totals for everyone travelling, including all nights or journey legs. Use one currency throughout, and convert your quotes before entering them.
Then compare the totals. The example amounts are fictional, so replace them with your own quotes. You’ll still need to check current prices, terms and availability with the provider.
Finally, choose London, Paris or Rome and set your interests and evening preferences. This small pilot compares three areas in each city. Treat the suggestion as a shortlist to explore, rather than a ranking of every neighbourhood.
Before booking, check the exact address, recent reviews, access needs and transport links. Noise and comfort can vary from one street or property to the next.
Once you’ve checked the basics, use the trip planning guide to work through the wider details. You can also browse all Useful Tools or explore Travel Lifestyle for ideas about pace and life on the road.