What's trending for short breaks, according to Newmarket Holidays
With cities and short break bookings soaring in popularity for the specialist tour operator, chief commercial officer David Sharman shares his destinations to watch and booking tips for agents
Which destinations are selling best?
Dubrovnik, Prague, Vienna and Budapest are all selling really well, as well as the tours in our Italian collection. We have recently added a new tour to our portfolio – Tuscany, Rome and the Amalfi Coast – which is proving popular, along with some of the classics, such as Pompeii, Portofino and Florence, which are back on our customers’ wish-lists post-pandemic.
Which city is a rising star?
Dubrovnik – it has actually become our best-selling tour for 2023. Croatia generally is selling very well, with the Istrian Riviera tour also rising up the ranks. While these tours are not new, the destinations seem to be on trend, so it is great to see them rising back to the top.
What is the shortest break you sell?
Our shortest break is probably our most special. It’s an authentic Lapland trip in a day. We’ve been operating it for more than a decade and it has been a very popular part of our portfolio. Obviously it’s aimed at families, but it’s a real multigenerational experience. We charter the flights and we’re the only people on the ground, so it’s a very intimate day for the families, away from crowds and includes all the things you’d expect – a ride on a snowmobile, a traditional sleigh ride, huskies and the magical highlight of the day – meeting Santa Claus himself!
What are your top tips for bagging a bargain?
The best bet for bagging a bargain is to book early as capacity is tighter since the pandemic. Also, as costs and prices are now more unpredictable, shorter lead times often result in increased prices. However, if customers are flexible on location and dates, then they can pick up a great deal on Late Escapes.
Are you seeing growth in flight-free short breaks?
We are certainly seeing a trend for flight-free trips and many of our UK tours are offered without flights to give our customers the flexibility to arrive at their own pace to combine their tour with something else beforehand. Scotland has always been a strong seller for us and we have just introduced a new tour incorporating the Royal Caledonian sleeper train, which is really special. This Royal Caledonian tour also includes a trip to Balmoral and the royal church of Crathie Kirk, as well as visits to Edinburgh, Inverness, the main Highland cities and towns and the Glen Ord distillery for some whisky tasting.
What’s your favourite city break?
I love Washington DC, New York and Boston as a combination of three in one trip. However, my ultimate favourite would have to be New York as there is so much to do at all times of year. Every time I visit I get to do something that I have not done previously and I think seeing a show is a must. Boston in the fall is stunning and highly recommended, whereas DC is old America and has the history and iconic landmarks as well as some great restaurants.
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