Selecting a holiday is one of the biggest decisions a family, couple or individual is likely to make during the average year; you want to make the most of those precious few days away from the office, but with so many holidays on offer it can be a daunting decision given that a wrong choice can mean wasting an awful lot of money and those all too precious holiday days!

More and more of us are opting for exotic destinations and adventure type holidays; perhaps Bangkok and its bustling night markets, maybe a week or two exploring off-piste areas with a guide in the magnificent Alps, or how about three weeks exploring the ancient cities and temples of China? They all sound wonderful don't they, until you imagine the price! However, a new spree of independent travel clubs has sprung up over the last few years, revolutionising not only the way we take holidays but, perhaps more importantly, the price! And with the imposing credit crunch, prices are dropping yet further as agents try to encourage us to part with our hard earned cash.

An action packed fortnight sailing in the Greek Islands or two weeks exploring hidden underwater gems on a professional diving course are no longer the preserve of the rich and famous; such holidays are easily within the range of many budgets thanks to this new breed of travel agents. So why not throw caution to the wind when you pack your bags for those precious few holiday days and opt for something more action packed this year? The only thing stopping you is your sense of adventure, not the price!

If trekking, hiking and canoeing really aren't your idea of a holiday, then many of the same travel clubs that arrange adventure trips also offer the more traditional holidays formula. How about a city break in one of Europe's many exciting capitals or two weeks lying on a beach in one of southern Spain's many Costa's? There are also loads of new and exciting destinations to explore closer to home, as Europe expands and countries finally see the light after years of conflict and hardship.

There really is something for everyone these days, and with so many companies taking care of all those extras such as airport parking, travel insurance and car hire, not to mention the expert advice on offer, booking a holiday really couldn't be easier or more exciting!