I usually refrain from recommending anything – whether it’s an accommodation, a service or a website – but I do write reviews stating my opinion. However, there are a bunch of websites which I use on a regular basis when I plan a trip.

We travel independently and we book the accommodation and flights online. That means , by now, I certainly know where to look for something. I also look for reviews on various sites. And I am a sucker for websites which also have Android apps.

With my extensive experience as a travel agent and travel consultant, I’m sharing some tips & tricks I use alongside my favorite travel websites.

Here is a list of them and my reasons for using them:

1. Booking.com

I’ve started using the site in the spring of 2017. My previous option was hostelbookers but after some fails through them (which were always : the rooms were not as described on the site; and the staff at the place was rude), I’ve had enough and switched. Right now, I book for me, family, and close friends via Booking and, knock on wood, haven’t had any issues. I love the many things you can sort by. And I still prefer to choose locally owned and managed places.

2. Skyscanner

I think they are the best website to look up flights, particularly within Europe. They list all the low cost carriers and , then it’s easy to just go to the airline’s page and dig more. As for the low cost carriers I use, EasyJet is the winner (I absolutely loved flying with them and they have an Android app), but WizzAir wasn’t bad either. We flew Rynair as well and to both our surprise, it was pretty good, too.

3. TripAdvisor

I know it’s a bit hard to find out which review is genuine and which is “paid for”, but spend a bit more time and you’ll figure out easily. It’s certainly the place where I ran to when I need to decide between two or three places to stay. These reviews combined with the ones from Booking and checking out some blogs are enough to ensure I choose a good place to stay. Yes, they have an Android app but right now it’s not on my cell.

4. Kiwi

I started using Kiwi for flight searches a while ago. I love how many options it gives and , when you are looking for inspiration, just choose a departure city and then choose “anywhere” for arrival. You’ll get some pretty awesome suggestions!

5. Tripaneer.com

I am glad to say that I always end up working for companies I love and use myself. Yup, my current employer offers a bunch of experiences. Whether you want to go on a yoga retreat, culinary vacation, surf camp, and more, you’ll find what you need on their site. And yes, I found tango and yoga retreats. And I’m seriously considering booking one.

Note: article written in Nov 2012 and updated in Jan 2019
This article includes links that may qualify as affiliate links. If you book through them, I may earn a small commission.