I hope I inspired you to create your “bare-bones” budget yesterday. If you still need some motivation, read on for the best December travel deals. It’s not unreasonably expensive to travel abroad on packaged deals if you book in advance. And I’ve discovered some great deals, along with an added bonus just for you…

The December holiday period is the most popular time to travel. For this reason it’s best to book your trip early to avoid the rush at the end of the year, along with its higher prices. Right now, the recession is great for awesome travel deals! Here are just a few of the gems I discovered for you.

London is notoriously expensive as a city along with the current exchange rate. But there are few of us who don’t know at least a handful of people living and working there. If you have some extra savings, why not jet to the northern hemisphere to visit friends and family, while taking in the culture, architecture and history. STA travel is offering 3 nights for R1605, return flights R2700 and a one way airport transfer at R225. The biggest expense in this deal is the tax, which stands at about R3270. All in all, a stop over in London for about R7, 800. Where else could you find deals like this?

Now for Bangkok, the vibrant heart of Thailand. And another great deal. This package includes flights, three nights, transfer and a day tour aboard a Tuk-tuk, which is similar to a rickshaw. Including taxes the total is at about R10, 780. One of the best things about Thailand is that once you get there, most things are dirt-cheap. If you’re willing to haggle of course.

Dubai could be more than just a connecting flight. This Middle Eastern city is rapidly growing into a skyscraper Mecca. A package from STA including flights, 3 nights accommodation, airport transfer, tour and taxes will cost you only about R7, 425. If you’re a shopaholic, this package is a must!

Or how about finally seeing the Eiffel tower up close and personal? It’s easy to fall in love with Paris with prices like these: three nights, airport transfer, flights, taxes and a wine tour of the city for about   R8, 305.

How about seeing the Big Apple from the comfort of a limousine, sipping champagne while you take it all in? That, flights, airport transfer and three nights accommodation added to taxes for about R13,795.

Our side of the equator also sees great package deals. They all include three nights accommodation, an airport transfer, return flights, a tour and approximate taxes.

•     Sydney for about R11, 985
•     Rio de Janeiro R 11,800
•     Buenos Aires R9, 640

You’ll never regret travelling, no matter where you go or how much you spend. If you have that little bit extra in your savings account gathering dust, why not use it to live life? And I've kept the best for last. I've arranged a R200 discount for our Insider Secrets members! Call Dieter Moller at STA Travel on 087 940 3861 or email him at morningside@statravel.co.za for more information. Just be sure to let him know that you heard about these deals through Fleet Street Publications.