Tuesday, July 23, 2024
Reading Time: 2 minute
Recent findings from ABTA suggest that this year’s particularly bad weather in the UK has led to a significant increase in people considering a last-minute summer holiday overseas.
A survey showed that more than 27% of respondents would be inclined to book a trip if they found an attractive deal to a warm, sunny destination. Additionally, 20% expressed a desire to escape the UK’s harsh weather conditions.
In a regional breakdown, residents of Scotland are the most keen to swap dreary skies for sunnier climes, with 31% considering booking a holiday to a warmer location if the price is right, and 27% motivated by a desire to escape the gloom.
The surge in interest follows a Met Office report which said this spring was the UK’s wettest since 1986, with scattered sunny days and a forecast that suggests a gloomy outlook for domestic sun-seekers until August.
However, in contrast, many of Europe’s favorite holiday destinations, including the Costa del Sol, the Algarve, Istria and islands such as Rhodes and Crete, as well as the southern resorts of Turkey, are expecting continued sunshine over the coming days.
ABTA is encouraging travelers to take advantage of the remaining deals this summer, especially if they suit their travel dates and destinations. They recommend consulting local travel agents or tour operators for the best options available.
ABT Director of Communications, Graeme Buck said:
“While many people already have a summer holiday to look forward to, our data suggests that a significant number of late deals can be booked – particularly if the UK summer continues and they get a well-priced break to deliver some much-needed vitamins Can D!
“Whether for a quick weekend away or a few weeks in the sun, we would encourage anyone who is thinking of booking a last minute holiday this summer to speak to their local ABTA travel agent or tour operator. They can tell them which places still have good availability in the summer and help them find the best break for their budget.”
ABTA’s essential tips for getting a late summer holiday:
- Prioritize flexibility: Getting the best deal often requires flexibility, such as choosing mid-week flights, choosing less popular times or flying from less crowded airports.
- Explore new places: Keeping an open mind about your holiday destination can lead to exciting and unique vacation experiences, possibly in places you wouldn’t have initially considered.
- Use ABTA-affiliated agents or operators: For a wide selection of holiday packages including exclusive deals, start with an ABTA-affiliated travel professional.
- Opt for package holidays: Not only are package holidays generally more cost-effective, but they also offer convenience and protection under package travel regulations, ensuring a well-protected trip.