My BF and I are planning a trip to both Ireland and France this summer for a family wedding. We would like to book now, but were advised by a friend that fare sales for this summer might start in February. Any ideas? Airline preferences? Hidden costs?

Summer is the busy season for tourism in Europe. I would be a bit surprised if an airline had a sale for flights that are in heavy demand, but I suppose anything is possible.

My plan would be to monitor prices and buy when you find a good one. I would not wait beyond 60 days before you intend to fly, as seats sell out and prices go up. You might consider flying into one destination and back from the other; it usually doesn't cost more and is convenient for you. Use the multi-destination feature on the search sites.

Fares change all the time. But what fares are you seeing now? It's still a bit early - meaning there are still many chances to see "good" fares. That doesn't mean necessarily much cheaper than right now.

cntraveler.com just tweeted me the summer fare sales have started. farecompare.com check next Tues best time to book when all match each otthers sales. Personally just snagged a great deal on cheapoair.com also kayak.com/buzz
another great site if you can be flexible.

Good luck!

Summer airfare deals to Europe have begun. Wendy Perrin and Joe Brancatelli summer airfare sales to Europe in business
http://www.cntraveler.com/perrin-pos...rope-Announced Looks like mostly biz class so far econo sales not so much so far... BOS DUB Aer Lingus then ryanair.com cheapest for me in the past.