Here come those higher prices to Europe

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).