\nEstimated total \/ package tour fare<\/td>\n From $3,144<\/td>\n From $2,278<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n*Estimates are based on entry prices and basic dining only. They don\u2019t include the guided tours, services, and dining variety and quality included in the package tour.<\/i><\/p>\n
There\u2019s a common belief that DIY travel is always cheaper than travelling with a tour group. But based on our estimates, that\u2019s not necessarily the case.\u00a0<\/p>\n
A self-planned trip can look cheaper on paper, until we factor in the regional transfers and time needed to check availability for popular activities. That\u2019s worth considering for Lijiang, where getting between the city and Lugu Lake adds another layer of logistical planning.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Sure, you can book a commercial flight to Lijiang personally, but Chan Brothers Travel also offers a direct flight from Singapore and a wide choice of departure dates for greater flexibility. The package tour also arranges the regional transfers, so we don\u2019t have to piece together different modes of transport or manage each booking along the way.\u00a0<\/p>\n
If the itinerary here sounds like a good balance you\u2019ve been looking for, then the package tour is quite worthwhile beyond saving you the hassles you might face with transport and travel arrangements alone.<\/p>\n
Browse all available Lijiang direct flight tours<\/i><\/b><\/p>\nHokkaido, Japan<\/h2>\n\n2 people on snowmobiles.<\/p>\n
Photo: Getty Images<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
As a December travel destination, Hokkaido offers a magical atmosphere that few other places can beat in Asia. You can count on a Hokkaido winter itinerary to include Japanese powdered snow (or, more affectionately, \u201cJapow\u201d), hot springs and fresh seafood.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Chan Brothers Travel\u2019s 9 Days Hokkaido Winter Fantasia<\/b> package tour includes direct flights by Singapore Airlines, 3-night stays at onsen resorts, an 8-course kaiseki dinner and visits to attractions such as Asahiyama Zoo.\u00a0<\/p>\n
The itinerary highlights some of Hokkaido\u2019s best natural sights, starting with Furano Herb Hill. You\u2019ll also explore the Shiretoko National Park Nature Center, one of Japan\u2019s most beautiful and unspoiled wilderness areas, the crater lake Lake Akan and Mount Iou.<\/p>\n\nPenguins on a snowy day at the Asahiyama Zoo.<\/p>\n
Photo: Chan Brothers Travel<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
Let\u2019s lay out the figures and compare how a DIY trip compares to the Chan Brothers Travel Hokkaido package tour.<\/p>\n
Indicative cost per person\u00a0(Departure 24 December 2026 \/ 9D8N)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n\n
\n\n\nItem cost<\/th>\n DIY estimate<\/th>\n Chan Brothers Travel package tour<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n \n\nReturn flight (Singapore Airlines)<\/td>\n ~$3,100<\/td>\n Included <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nAccommodation<\/td>\n ~$1,500 (for 8 nights)<\/td>\n Included <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nRegional transport<\/td>\n ~$900<\/td>\n Coach transfers included<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nSightseeing and activities<\/td>\n ~$300*<\/td>\n As listed in itinerary<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nMeals<\/td>\n ~$500*<\/td>\n Included <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nEstimated total \/ package tour fare<\/td>\n From $6,300<\/td>\n From $6,228<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n*Estimates are based on entry prices and basic dining only. They don\u2019t include the guided tours, services, and dining variety and quality included in the package tour.<\/i><\/p>\n
The challenge with recreating the 9 Days Hokkaido Winter Fantasia itinerary independently is getting between its spread-out stops. DIY travellers need to research and book each train or bus, then work out how to reach stations, hotels and attractions with their luggage in tow.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Fares for local transport and taxis can also add up and a sightseeing tour bus may mean sticking to fixed departure points and routes. Many of Hokkaido\u2019s scenic attractions are also inaccessible by public transport, which means you might have to shell out for a private driver.<\/p>\n
While self-driving gives you more control, it also means taking on Hokkaido\u2019s winter road conditions. If you\u2019re not used to driving on ice and snow, getting around can be dangerous.<\/p>\n
Our current estimate puts a comparable DIY trip at $6,300 per person, just $72<\/b> more <\/b>than Chan Brothers Travel\u2019s package tour. For essentially the same price, the package tour offers far greater convenience, sparing you the hassle of planning, booking and coordinating the various arrangements on your own.<\/p>\n
Browse all available Hokkaido direct flight tours flying by Singapore Airlines<\/i><\/b><\/p>\nBhutan<\/h2>\n\nBhutan\u2019s Taktsang Lhakhang, also known as the Tiger\u2019s Nest, is Bhutan\u2019s most iconic monastery.<\/p>\n
Photo: Chan Brothers Travel<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
In a country that measures progress by Gross National Happiness instead of just GDP, Bhutan is a choice destination for those looking to recharge away from the city grind and rat race.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Explore monasteries, visit cliffside temples like Taktsang Lhakhang (Tiger\u2019s Nest) and take in scenic mountain views with this 7 Days Bhutan Smart Saver<\/b> package tour. The Chan Brothers Travel\u2019s 7-day chartered-flight tour includes experiences such as donning Gho and Kira traditional dress and stargazing at the Milky Way.<\/p>\n\nFor Bhutanese men, the Gho is the traditional national attire. It is a knee-length, robe-like garment which is wrapped around the body and tied at the waist.<\/p>\n
Photo: Chan Brothers Travel<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
So, does going DIY actually save you money? Let\u2019s put a self-planned Bhutan trip side by side with the above Chan Brothers Travel package tour.<\/p>\n
Indicative cost per person based on twin share (Departure 23 December 2026 \/ 7D5N)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n\n
\n\n\nItem cost<\/th>\n DIY estimate<\/th>\n Chan Brothers Travel package tour<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n \n\nReturn flight (Drukair)<\/td>\n ~$1,540<\/td>\n Chartered flight included <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nAccommodation<\/td>\n ~$500 (for 5 nights)<\/td>\n Included <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nLocal guide and transport <\/td>\n ~$900**<\/td>\n Included<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nSustainable Development Fee and visa<\/td>\n ~$882*<\/td>\n Included<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nMeals<\/td>\n ~$350*<\/td>\n Included <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nEstimated total \/ package tour fare<\/td>\n From $4,172<\/td>\n From $3,174<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n*Estimates are based on entry prices and basic dining only. They don\u2019t include the guided tours, services, and dining variety and quality included in the package tour.<\/i><\/p>\n
**Approximate conversion of Bhutan\u2019s US$100-per-night SDF for 5 nights and US$40 visa fee.<\/i><\/p>\n
Singaporeans have one of the best passports in the world, so we rarely have to deal with visa applications or fees. But Bhutan has a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), which requires adult visitors to pay US$100 per night and a one-off US$40 visa fee for every visit to the country. Letting Chan Brothers Travel secure the paperwork saves you a bunch of headaches and time.<\/p>\n
Additionally, international travellers are required to hire a licensed tour guide. You can travel without a guide only in the western valleys of Paro and Thimphu. If you want to go trekking and visit religious sites, museums, dzongs and cultural monuments anywhere else, an accredited tour operator or guide must accompany you.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Since DIY travel still requires you to hire an accredited guide, booking a package tour with Chan Brothers Travel directly removes the hassle of making these arrangements yourself. The tour operator will handle all necessary applications for you \u2013 including the visa.<\/p>\n
Browse all available Bhutan chartered flight tours<\/i><\/b><\/p>\nTaiwan<\/h2>\n\nOverview of Taipei 101 from Elephant Mountain.<\/p>\n
Photo: Getty Images<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
Taiwan is a good fit for a family holiday that mixes city time with countryside and hands-on experiences. We\u2019re all familiar with Taipei for a quick city getaway, but there is so much more to discover. Take this <\/b>8 Days Taiwan Family Fun<\/b> package tour with stops across Hsinchu, Changhua, Nantou, Yilan and Taipei.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Sample local food, visit a theme park, go on a Lukang heritage tour and get a taste of farm life through activities like making spring onion pancakes and enjoying a farm-to-table dining experience.<\/p>\n\nPa Cien Pagoda, with Sun Moon Lake in the background.<\/p>\n
Photo: Getty Images<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
Part of the package tour includes a 2-night stay at the international 5-star Sheraton Grand Taipei hotel (centrally located, with the metro at its doorstep for easy self-discovery), as well as a 1-night stay at the highly popular Leofoo Resort and Theme Park.<\/p>\n
Here is how a self-planned Taiwan getaway compares directly with the above Chan Brothers Travel package tour.<\/p>\n
Indicative cost per person (Departure 23 December 2026 \/ 8D7N)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n\n
\n\n\nItem cost<\/th>\n DIY estimate<\/th>\n Chan Brothers Travel package tour<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n \n\nReturn flight (Singapore Airlines)<\/td>\n ~$1,750<\/td>\n Included <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nAccommodation<\/td>\n ~$1,928 (for 7 nights)<\/td>\n Included <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nLocal transport<\/td>\n ~$300<\/td>\n Transfers included<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nSightseeing and activities<\/td>\n ~$150*<\/td>\n As listed in itinerary<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nMeals<\/td>\n ~$300*<\/td>\n Included <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nEstimated total \/ package tour fare<\/td>\n From $4,428<\/td>\n From $3,116<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n*Estimates are based on entry prices and basic dining only. They don\u2019t include the guided tours, services, and dining variety and quality included in the package tour.<\/i><\/p>\n
The numbers above make the value difference pretty stark, with the Chan Brothers Travel package tour proving to be the far better-value winner.<\/p>\n
Our estimated DIY for a 23 December Taiwan trip departure costs about $4,428<\/b> per person on a twin-share arrangement, including return flights on Singapore Airlines and accommodation. Chan Brothers Travel\u2019s package tour starts at $3,116 <\/b>and includes flights, accommodation, transfers, meals and the sightseeing listed in the itinerary. There\u2019s about $1,312<\/b> in savings there, which can be put to better use for shopping or simply that \u2013 savings.<\/p>\n
If you were already planning a similar Taiwan trip, taking a package tour with Chan Brothers Travel is worth considering. Beyond the agency\u2019s wide choice of December departure dates, with flights available almost daily except from 28 to 31 December, you can avoid paying a premium and<\/i> having to arrange everything independently. Instead, let them handle the heavy lifting, from the main bookings to transfers.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Browse all Taiwan tours flying by Singapore Airlines<\/i><\/b><\/p>\nGermany and Holland<\/h2>\n\nNeuschwanstein Castle in winter.<\/p>\n
Photo: Getty Images<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
With so much of Europe to explore, Germany and the Netherlands make an appealing pairing for a trip that combines history, architecture, food and city life without trying to cover half the continent at once.<\/p>\n
This 10-day and 7-night Germany and Holland Delights<\/b> package tour moves from Bavaria\u2019s castles and medieval towns to the canals and food halls of the Netherlands. At the picturesque Neuschwanstein Castle (the same castle that inspired Sleeping Beauty\u2019s), we can join a guided tour through its ornate rooms; in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, a 1-night stay gives us more time to wander the charming old town\u2019s winding lanes and walk part of its 4-kilometre city wall.<\/p>\n\nAmsterdam in winter.<\/p>\n
Photo: Getty Images<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
There\u2019s more to explore as the journey continues. Admire Cologne Cathedral\u2019s soaring Gothic architecture and cruise along Amsterdam\u2019s canals by boat and sail past historic bridges and canal houses.\u00a0<\/p>\n
On the trip, you\u2019ll also head to Rotterdam\u2019s Markthal, which will have been transformed into the city\u2019s festive Kersthal (Christmas Hall). Browse festive food stalls and stop for a bite beneath its vast arched ceiling for a wonderfully cosy experience.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
Now let\u2019s talk numbers. Here\u2019s how much a comparable DIY Germany-Holland trip fares\u00a0<\/p>\n
Indicative cost per person (Departure 3 December 2026 \/ 10D7N)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n\n
\n\n\nItem cost<\/th>\n DIY estimate<\/th>\n Chan Brothers Travel package tour<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n \n\nReturn flight (Singapore Airlines)<\/td>\n ~$2,008<\/td>\n Included <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nAccommodation<\/td>\n ~$2,500 (for 7 nights)<\/td>\n Included <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nLocal transport and rail<\/td>\n ~$700<\/td>\n Transfers and listed train ride included<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nSightseeing and activities<\/td>\n ~$150*<\/td>\n As listed in itinerary<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nMeals<\/td>\n ~$700*<\/td>\n Included <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nEstimated total \/ package tour fare<\/td>\n From $6,058<\/td>\n From $5,493<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n*Estimates are based on entry prices and basic dining only. They don\u2019t include the guided tours, services, and dining variety and quality included in the package tour.<\/i><\/p>\n
Flight prices are notoriously unpredictable. Just 1 week after our initial check, airfares jumped to $2,724 (accurate as of 26 October 2026). That\u2019s a $716 price difference<\/b>! When you DIY travel, you\u2019re at the mercy of these price spikes. Booking with Chan Brothers Travel shields you from unexpected fare hikes so you can skip the price tag stress.<\/p>\n
With Chan Brothers Travel, not only do you save more overall, but you also take out the stress of booking and mapping out a multi-city journey.<\/p>\n
In the case of this Germany-Holland tour, the main sights are spread far apart, and the combined cost of transport and individual attraction tickets adds up fast. So, travelling with a tour group can be more beneficial as it allows you and your family to travel seamlessly from point to point.<\/p>\n
You\u2019ll also enjoy 4-star hotel stays <\/b>in Maastricht, Rotterdam, and Amsterdam. With a direct flight from Singapore and transfers arranged, you can spend less time working out how to get to these stops and more time exploring.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Browse all available Germany direct flight tours<\/i><\/b><\/p>\nThe verdict: What makes sense if you\u2019re booking a year-end holiday now?<\/h2>\n\nPhoto: Getty Images<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
Planning a holiday ourselves can be part of the fun, especially if we enjoy the research and want full control over the schedule. But it also means coordinating flights, hotels, transfers, meals and advance bookings \u2013 more work when an itinerary spans several regions.<\/p>\n
After crunching the numbers, 4 Chan Brothers Travel package tours cost less than the comparable DIY trips, while Hokkaido was broadly on par.<\/p>\n
If you still haven\u2019t booked your year-end holiday, time matters too. When a package tour already covers the places and experiences you want, spending hours recreating the same trip yourself (and potentially paying more) makes less sense.<\/p>\n
Booking with Chan Brothers Travel also means the itinerary, accommodation and transport are already arranged, with tour guides and on-ground support available if something unexpected happens.<\/p>\n
Ultimately, it isn\u2019t only about paying less. If the itinerary suits you and the package tour costs the same or less, having the main arrangements taken care of can make it better overall value. All that\u2019s left for you to do is pack.<\/p>\n
Still looking for a year-end holiday? <\/b>Browse Chan Brothers Travel\u2019s available departures<\/b> and compare itineraries<\/b><\/p>\nLanguage note: Featured package tours may be conducted in Mandarin. Please check the individual package tour page or confirm the tour language with Chan Brothers Travel before booking.<\/i>\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
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