Package holiday booking advice and ATOL protection Ten tips to avoid travel rip-offs Nobody enjoys being taken for a ride, but it can happen all too easily when travelling abroad. Nick Trend suggests some simple strategies to avoid being scammed. How to avoid single supplements Feeling persecuted by high prices when you travel alone? Here is how to reduce 'solo' fees. How to save money skiing Nick Trend offers advice on where and when to get the most for your money. Where to go for autumn sun The end of school holidays means cheaper travel and accommodation - but less predictable weather on autumn holidays, says Nick Trend. Where to go for winter sun Some of the places we like to escape to are having their troubles - but there are plenty of other options offering good value. The pitfalls of the January sales Most people still book their summer holiday at the start of the year, but look before you leap at one of the 'bargains' on offer. How to forecast holiday weather There is nothing worse than having your holiday ruined by bad weather. Nick Trend offers advice on how to make sure it doesn't rain on your parade. Tour operators without Abta numbers Sophie Butler replies to a query about travelling with a tour operator with no Abta number nor Atol protection. Guide to tour operator ownership Sophie Butler advises on which tour companies are umbrella organisations for smaller travel specialists.