A Last-Minute Solar Eclipse Trip is Still Possible

For those who have been planning their travels to witness the total solar eclipse on August 12, but are now facing the reality of sold-out hotels and cruises, fear not! There are still opportunities to plan a last-minute solar eclipse trip.

Source: media.cntraveler.com

According to recent data, United has seen a significant increase in searches for flights to Reykjavik, with a 20% rise in July for travel leading up to the eclipse. Hotels.com has also recorded substantial year-over-year growth in searches for stays from August 10 to 16, with a 115% increase in searches for Valencia, 75% for Mallorca, and 25% for Reykjavik.

Trace the Path of Totality

The moon’s shadow will cross Greenland, western Iceland, northern Spain, and a small corner of Portugal on August 12. To ensure that you witness the total solar eclipse, it’s crucial to identify destinations that fall within the path of totality.

Reykjavik, Bilbao, Zaragoza, and Palma de Mallorca in Spain are just a few of the destinations that will experience 100% coverage. However, if you’re looking for alternative options, consider lesser-known destinations like A Coruña, Burgos, and Valladolid in Spain. These locations may offer a more affordable and less crowded experience, but be sure to check the availability of accommodations and transportation.

Consider Lesser-Known Destinations

While major cities like Reykjavik and Bilbao may be more popular choices, they also tend to be more expensive and crowded. By expanding your search to include nearby airports, larger towns, and places within driving distance of the path of totality, you may find more affordable and accessible options.

For example, in Spain, potential locations within totality include A Coruña, Burgos, and Valladolid. Staying outside the path can also work, but only when you have a realistic plan for reaching totality. Be sure to check whether there is reliable public transportation or whether you’ll need to rent a car, as adding these costs to your trip can quickly outweigh the savings.

Continue Checking Availability

Availability can reappear as cancellation deadlines approach, so be sure to continue checking for last-minute deals. Search multiple booking sites, as well as hotel websites, and check again at different times of day. Filtering for free cancellation can also help you preserve flexibility and make it easier to change plans if a better option appears at the last minute.

Don’t Forget About Cruises

The path of totality will cross over wide swaths of the ocean, making cruise ships an ideal viewing platform. Many cruises still have cabins available, and the benefit of cruising is that ships can reposition themselves easily to search for clear skies.

Some popular cruise options include Holland America Line’s Lisbon to Athens cruise, Windstar Cruises’ Rome to Barcelona cruise, and Silversea’s Nice to Nice cruise. Be sure to research and book your cruise in advance to secure a spot.

Additionally, consider booking a room with a western-facing view to ensure that you can witness the eclipse in all its glory.

Plan Your Last-Minute Solar Eclipse Trip

While it may seem daunting to plan a last-minute solar eclipse trip, with the right resources and planning, you can still experience this incredible event. Remember to trace the path of totality, consider lesser-known destinations, continue checking availability, and don’t forget about cruises. With a little creativity and flexibility, you can make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

So, don’t wait any longer! Start planning your last-minute solar eclipse trip today and get ready to witness the breathtaking beauty of this celestial event.