Here come those higher prices to Europe

Josh Roberts believes the best trips involve long hikes and muddy boots. His life goals haven't changed much since he was a kid: He still wants to be Indiana Jones when he grows up.

Follow him on Twitter (@joshwhowrites) and Instagram (@joshwhowrites), and visit his website (joshrobertsbooks.com) or Goodreads page to learn more about his forthcoming novel.

Josh joined SmarterTravel in 2001, and is an active member in both the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW) and the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI).

In addition to SmarterTravel, he has written for USA Today, The Boston Globe, Yahoo! Travel, The Huffington Post, Airfarewatchdog, TripAdvisor, Jetsetter, ABC News, Oyster, and Business Insider. His travel photography can be seen in Britain and Ireland's Best Wild Places, published by Penguin UK.

The Handy Item I Always Pack: "A lacrosse ball. It's small, lightweight, and works wonders on loosening up tight muscles."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: "Being the first to discover an ancient lost city. Failing that, visiting as many of the already-discovered ancient ruins as possible."

Travel Motto: "Not all those who wander are lost." -J.R.R. Tolkien

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: "Aisle."

See recent posts by Josh Roberts

St. Patrick’s Day is right around the corner, and this year it means a pot o’ gold for travel providers. That’s because March 17 is the date when major vacation packagers like EuropeASAP and Go-today will likely raise prices for spring and summer travel deals; I expect Air France Holidays and several other major providers to follow a few days later.

Take a look at the “purchase by” date for these travel deals from Go-today. Notice how they all say “Purchase deadline: 3/16/2006”? On March 17 you can bet those prices will skyrocket to their summer highs because demand will be up.

So here’s a tip: If you’re planning a spring or summer trip to Europe, book soon or pay the price (literally).

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