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A summer holiday is always exciting, but even more so when it\u2019s booked last minute. What better way to bid farewell to the season than to stretch it out in a sunny Spanish city, a chic Italian hotel, or a rural French hideaway? And that\u2019s not even the best thing about an eleventh-hour trip; it\u2019s the deals you can get.<\/p>\n
It seems more and more of us are swapping the traditional year-long countdown to a holiday for a more spontaneous approach to travel \u2013 myself included. I\u2019m chasing summer to Menorca in early September after finding a great deal on flights.<\/p>\n
Last-minute all-inclusive holidays are proving particularly popular. Analysis from loveholidays, the UK\u2019s leading online travel agent, reveals that package holiday bookings made in July jumped by 23 per cent year-on-year.<\/p>\n
The antithesis of any Type A holiday planner, next-day bookings have risen even higher to 26 per cent year-on-year, while bookings made within seven days of departure increased by 13 per cent.<\/p>\n
Summer\u2019s not over yet, and for anyone still looking to get away, there are hundreds of last-minute holidays available for departures within a week to 90 days \u2013 including on five-star resort hotels.<\/p>\n
So, get that suitcase packed and find a little inspiration below. These are the holidays appealing to my wanderlust, from sun-drenched Mediterranean resorts to relaxing island escapes.<\/p>\n
On the Greek island of Corfu, enjoy a week-long holiday at Cooks Club. Set in the lively resort of Gouvia, the stylish adults-only hotel combines modern rooms with a laid-back atmosphere, a swimming pool and plenty of spots to relax with a book. Corfu Town is nearby, perfect for exploring Venetian architecture, winding streets, waterfront tavernas and the island\u2019s rich history.<\/p>\n
Save up to \u00a3199pp on a seven-night all-inclusive stay at Cook\u2019s Club Corfu from 26 August.<\/p>\n
Malta is one of the Mediterranean's most buzzy breaks. Find out what all the fuss is about with a seven-night stay at Corinthia Hotel St George\u2019s Bay. Set on the island\u2019s northeast coast, the elegant five-star hotel overlooks the ocean and offers several pools, restaurants and a private lido. Nearby St Julian\u2019s is ideal for waterfront dining, while Valletta\u2019s historic streets and landmarks are easily reached for a culture-fuelled day trip.<\/p>\n
Save up to \u00a3178pp on a seven-night stay, including breakfast, departing on 5 September from London Gatwick.<\/p>\n
Craving a Mallorcan sojourn? Book a seven-night stay at Purobeach Resort Santa Ponsa. Set on the beautiful island\u2019s southwest coast, the stylish resort features modern rooms, a relaxed beach-club atmosphere, pools and Mediterranean dining. Santa Ponsa\u2019s sandy beach is nearby, while Palma\u2019s historic streets, cathedral and vibrant waterfront are around 30 minutes away.<\/p>\n
Save up to \u00a3169pp on a seven-night room-only stay, departing from London Luton on Tuesday 8 September.<\/p>\n
In picturesque Corfu, a seven-night stay at MarBella is waiting. The elegant five-star resort overlooks the Ionian Sea. Set among lush gardens, the hotel offers several pools, restaurants and direct access to a private beach. UNESCO-protected, Corfu Town\u2019s cobblestone maze, bright architecture and ancient fortresses are within easy reach.<\/p>\n
Best mini underseat cabin bags that fit under an airline chair<\/p>\n