British operators are selling more luxurious holidays as prices continue to decrease for long-haul destinations. In a review published by Hayes & Jarvis, holiday bookings for locations such as Thailand, Dubai and egypt were on the up, as five-star resorts offer more discounts and lower prices.
Holiday prices were lower than last year and reductions have been as high as 40%, with 15% the average. The last two months have been a strong holiday booking month for the operator, who have seen a 60% in bookings for the October 2010-April 2011 period.
Niel Alobaidi, Commercial Director for Hayes & Jarvis said: “This is the year when holidaymakers who have traditionally booked three-star accommodation can now have a five-star experience for the same price – or even less. 2010 could be the year when a long haul holiday can finally prove cheaper than a European trip.”
Alobaidi has suggested that the strengthened sterling pound exchange rate has helped sway customers decisions, as well as the low tourist costs in the resorts. The Post Office’s Travel Money Monitor reported January currency purchases up 45% for Thai baht, 23% for UAE Dirham and 17% for the Egyptian pound.
Thailand has seen the biggest growth as more holiday-makers opt for a roaming style trip and sales have increased 70% year-on-year. This has been helped by plenty of booking initiatives such as free hotel nights. Although there were concerns over Dubai’s economic and tourism sectors, the emirate is bouncing back with strong offers and is successfully selling itself as an ideal stop-over destination.
The Egyptian resort of Sharm el Sheikh has been tipped as one of the best value resorts by several travel sites for its al inclusive deals and trips to the infamous landmarks nearby.
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