Have you ever noticed how some of your friends seem to get away on a lot of holidays each year? Maybe they’re just lucky, or maybe they know the secrets to finding cheap airline tickets.

Before internet usage became so common, the trick to finding the best deals on flights often involved waiting until the very last moment and then phoning a specialist flight broker.

Such brokers were often able to offer extremely competitive last minute deals, allowing you access to cheap prices. They were able to get their hands on cheap tickets because some airlines would find themselves with excess capacity and would look to brokers to fill seats.

For those wanting to experience Italy without the crowds and the sometimes unbearable summer heat, a tour of the north has plenty that appeals. Let’s take a look at some must-see highlights.

The rise of budget airlines has meant that it has never been easier to find a cheap flight to northern Italy. Both Milan and Verona have busy international airports, with flights from most major European cities. Verona is served by regular flights from London Gatwick, making it a perfect starting point for any tour.

If you can’t find a suitably priced flight from Verona, then you might also consider Bologna as a feasible alternative.

Lake Garda, the inland lake in north-east Italy, boasts more than 45 kilometres of beaches among its many attractions. It should come as no surprise that this is a region that tourists are increasingly flocking to reach.

On a warm June day here, tourists sit and admire the spectacular Alpine scenery reflecting in the still, delicate waters of Lake Garda. This region of Italy has a unique beauty - a beauty that is making it more and more popular with visitors from elsewhere in Europe and beyond.

Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world. Millions of tourists come here every day. So when planning your trip to Paris make sure you have a place to stay at. Don’t go to the city without a reservation. The majority of the Paris hotels have official websites, so it’s very easy to book a room on-line. Another variant is to reserve a room via fax, using a special form included in the website. Write dates of stay, time of arrival, number of people, type of room you desire, required facilities and location. Wait until you get a confirmation - and here you are! You have a place to stay at when in Paris! Don’t forget to bring a copy of your reservation (whether it was made via fax or email) when you check in.

Low budget travels could be enjoyable provided you make a little bit compromise on your dreams. If you are filthy rich with thousands of extra bucks in your bank, do not read further. Most of us are full of dreams and always short of cash. Fortunately, there are means of enjoying a vacation that fit your tight bank balance. All you need is to go a step down in your dreams.

Travel tips for low budget travels

• Go to a cheap destination