Increase in all-inclusive bookings
Directline Holidays has seen a 280% increase in all-inclusive bookings. The company said the rise had been noted in the period between November 2009 to March 31, 2010, compared with the same time a year ago. It also saw a 59% increase in summer holiday sales.
The largest hikes were in destinations such as Mexico, Turkey and Malta, which saw increases of 280%, 139% and 125% respectively. Spanish bookings are also up by 102%, and Sharm El Sheikh, 94%.
Chief executive Maria Whiteman said: “The current economic climate has made the British public more price conscious and all inclusive trips allow people to budget more effectively [and] avoid escalating resort costs.
“The pound is now so weak against many foreign currencies that once affordable destinations have become expensive. In addition, savvy hoteliers in countries such as Egypt and Turkey are increasing prices in line with British demand for non-eurozone destinations.”
Whiteman said Directline holidays had also seen significant growth in DIY flights and accommodation stimulated by last year’s surge in popularity for such holidays, but said that many other travel brands were finding the “hidden extra” levys introduced by no-frills airlines, were acting as a deterrent to the DIY route.
“Ultimately, the British public want complete transparency on holiday costs and the all-inclusive trip affords them this security,” she added.
