Advantage highlights uptick in festive long-haul trips
Will PayneThe Advantage Travel Partnership has seen an increase in long-haul festive holiday bookings this year despite concerns upcoming UK Border Force strikes could impede Christmas getaways.
The group said after "years of uncertainty" brought by international travel restrictions and closed borders, demand for long-haul flights is "slowly but surely" returning.
New York, Dubai, Cancun, Jamaica and Orlando came out as the top five long-haul destinations booked by Advantage members for those looking to travel further afield.
However, despite early booking enthusiasm, the excitement of a winter escape has been dampened by fears of cancelled flights due to planned Border Force strikes between 23-26 and 28-31 December.
Despite the concerns, Advantage chief commercial officer Kelly Cookes was hopeful any disruption caused by the walkouts will be minimised by the time the Christmas holidays start.
"The wide range of trips that are being booked shows that people are not letting rising prices at home stop them from travelling abroad," she added.
"Whilst people are looking to make the most of their holidays this winter, they are also seeking ways to travel that are also cost-effective."
Elsewhere, Tenerife, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria, Alicante and Fuerteventura were the top five short-haul destinations booked in December, and bookings for Christmas markets have doubled this year compared to 2021.
Advantage agent partners have also seen average stays increase, with holidaymakers trading up on their accommodation as well as adding excursions.
The popularity of river cruises has continued to grow with demand estimated to have increased 315% since 2011, and ex-UK cruises have performed "exceptionally well" for the consortium as Brits look to minimise travel time.
As costs continue to increase, Advantage reports an increase in all-inclusive bookings as consumers look at cost-effective ways to travel.
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