With luxury breaks off the cards, what is the best option for next summer?

Travel Q&A

Q. For the last few years we have splashed out on Caribbean luxury all-inclusives for our summer holidays, and have been very spoilt. But next year money is tighter due to university fees for our daughter, and we are looking for something different in June. We want sun, local atmosphere in a quiet resort that flies from Doncaster, with either self-catering or bed and breakfast – and a few nice bars and restaurants nearby. Leanne Appleyard, Goole

A. Robin Hood Doncaster-Sheffield airport is largely the preserve of two airlines: Wizz Air and Thomson. The former is a no-frills airline serving destinations in eastern Europe, and is unlikely to appeal. Handily, Thomson serves a wide range of Mediterranean destinations, mostly for the benefit of package holidaymakers. By booking flights and accommodation in a single transaction, you get more consumer protection than by buying the elements separately. If any aspect of the trip goes awry – from a delayed flight to an overbooked hotel – the company has to sort it out for you. You can also get very good deals.

June is an excellent time to travel – without the excess heat of July and August, and with the benefit of good prices. There's plenty around in the £300-£350 range from Thomson.

The pick of the bunch is Corfu – the closest Greek island, under four hours' flying time from Doncaster, with plenty to explore but also some quiet locations in the north and west.

Thomson has a week's B&B at the Hotel Paleo Inn in Paleokastritsa, on the western shore, for £330, departing on 8 June. It's a comfortable budget option in a good location (though not on the beach), a long way from the excesses of Kavos yet with some good places to eat and drink. The price includes return flights (without meals), coach transfers and a reasonable 15kg baggage allowance.

If you don't want to commit so early, then past experience for travel in June suggests an early sell-out is unlikely. You should be able to book a week or two in advance at prices that are similar or even lower.