# FLY-DRIVE HOLIDAY OPTIONS - Summer 2026

## Requirements Recap
- **Dates:** 10-12 nights (flexible) in July/August 2026
- **Party:** 2 adults + 1 child (age 6)
- **Budget:** £2,000 total
- **Transport:** Fly from Manchester/Liverpool + hire car
- **Must Have:** Pool access (private or shared)
- **Dietary:** Vegetarian + allergies → self-catering
- **Priority:** Daughter having fun!

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## Top 4 Destinations

| Rank | Destination | Total Est. Cost | Verdict |
|------|------------|----------------|---------|
| 1 | **Portugal Algarve** | £1,600-2,150 | ✅ BEST VALUE |
| 2 | **Mallorca, Spain** | £1,710-2,350 | ✅ GREAT POOLS |
| 3 | **Croatia (Split/Dalmatia)** | £1,300-1,700 | ✅ BEAUTIFUL |
| 4 | **Germany (Black Forest)** | £1,810-3,980 | ⚠️ Tight |

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## Why Fly-Drive Works Better

| Factor | Fly + Hire | Drive + Ferry |
|--------|-----------|---------------|
| Travel time | 3-5 hours total | 12-20+ hours |
| Cost | £300-600 | £600-1,100 |
| Stress | Low | High (long drive, ferry) |
| Time at destination | More | Less (lost to travel) |
| Flexibility | High | Medium |

**Fly-drive saves ~£400-500 and 1-2 days of travel time!**

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## Files

- `01-PORTUGAL-ALGARVE.md` - Full details + itinerary
- `02-MALLORCA-SPAIN.md` - Full details + itinerary
- `03-CROATIA-SPLIT.md` - Full details + itinerary
- `04-GERMANY.md` - Full details + itinerary (NEW)
- `05-DECISION-GUIDE.md` - How to choose

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## Next Steps

1. Review the 4 destination options in detail
2. Check flight prices for your preferred dates
3. Search Airbnb for apartments/villas with pools
4. Book early for best prices

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*Created: 15 March 2026*  
*Updated: 15 March 2026 - Added Germany option*