New Research Shows Winter Holidays are on the Up

Winter holidays are on the rise, according to newly released research, by ABTA today (Friday).

ABTA, The Association of British Travel Agents, show in their new research that almost a third of people are planning to travel abroad this winter.

The statistics show that 29% of people surveyed, plan to take a winter holiday or break this year, with booking numbers having increased by 16% year-on-year.

Proving the most popular form of holiday for people to be taking this winter, going away for winter sun topped the tables at 31%, followed by city breaks (22%), and then UK breaks (14%).

Other breaks people will be taking this winter include ski holidays (9%), cruises (5%), Christmas market breaks (4%), and a trip to see the Northern Lights (4%).

Both the Caribbean and Asia have also seen an increase in winter bookings, with bookings to the Caribbean up 21%, and bookings to Asia up by 17%.

The report states that Cape Verde has also seen a strong growth in winter sun seekers.

36% of people aged between 25 and 34, plan to take a winter holiday this year, making them the most likely age group, with the second most likely being people over the age of 65 years old, at 33%.

Terror hit countries, including Egypt, and Tunisia, have seen a decline in winter tourists, following numerous ‘high profile’ attacks and updates to travel advice issued by the British Foreign Office.

ABTA’s Chief Executive, Mark Tanzer, said on the topic: “It is very encouraging that bookings for the winter season are looking strong. With such a wide range of holiday options available in the winter months, from winter sun to city and ski breaks, it is not surprising that so many people are planning a winter break.”

ABTA’s report.

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