librarianne, I agree there no longer seem to be bargains on offer and if you know what you want then go for it. I do lots of research before hand and like to book almost as soon as the holidays are advertised. As you say, if it says there are only a few rooms left it is a bit of a risk to leave it too late so if you're in a position to book there and then, no point in hanging around. However, if the rooms appear to be almost all gone within weeks of being advertised, don't feel rushed into it as (unless it's a very small property) there are usually more rooms for sale at a later date.

Have a great time in Lake Garda. It's somewhere I've fancied but haven't been to YET lol.

Me

When looking to book our May holiday, at the same hotel we went to in September, the website states 'hurry there are only 2 suites left'. I know for a fact the hotel only has two suites, so therefore they haven't sold any of the suites yet! I think it's just a ploy to get you to book early!

I have had 4 bargain holidays in the last 12 months,and one booked 6 months before departure which was almost brochure price.
We are fortunate that we can go away any time and always holiday outside the school holidays.
I think the best bargains are booked 3-4 weeks before departure.
2 of the holidays were 5star AI in lovely hotels at less than the price of SC.
We are now waiting for the hotel were went to last December in Egypt to come down,which it will in a couple of weeks.
If we paid brochure price we wouldnt be able to go away 5 times a year.