Escaping high costs: Millions of UK residents choose Christmas abroad over pricy home stay
Travel agencies in the United Kingdom are expecting record profits. The tourism market is flourishing as the coronavirus pandemic recedes and living costs rise. It's becoming evident that for many, traveling and spending the holidays in a different country could actually be less expensive than staying in the UK.
Spain, Greece, and the Caribbean are at the top of the list for British tourists planning winter vacations. For holidays in Europe, deals can be found for around $353 per person. For those looking for a bargain, last-minute deals that include a week at all-inclusive resorts in places like Tunisia, Morocco, and Egypt are available for under $733 per person.
The UK's projected weather for this period suggests average winter temperatures, which further encourages residents to escape to warmer climates. It is estimated that 640,000 holidaymakers will depart from Stansted Airport, while another 470,000 will leave from Luton Airport, according to representatives of the Abta travel agency association, as quoted by the "Daily Express".
David Child, Head of Communication at Thomas Cook, reported a significant uptick in last-minute bookings. He told the "Daily Mirror", "We're seeing a massive increase in bookings for families and couples who decide to travel during the Christmas holidays."
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"Unsurprisingly, many people want to ease the burden of gift shopping and preparing holiday meals at home," he added. Many vacationers plan their trips to last from the beginning to the end of the year, making full use of their remaining vacation time before it expires.
The final two weeks of the year will be a busy period at Heathrow Airport, with staff expecting to assist more than three million departing and incoming passengers. A significant number of holidaymakers will opt for a Europe-bound crossing via ferry or the Channel Tunnel.
December 23 and 27 are predicted to be the busiest days for departures, as tourists aim to travel before Christmas Eve and Christmas, or plan to celebrate New Year's Eve overseas. In 2020 and 2021, travel was heavily impeded by restrictions due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Beyond the allure of a holiday abroad, other factors are driving the rush of tourists. Increased energy costs, higher mortgage rates and rents, as well as increased food bills and transport fees have stretched many household budgets.
Abta's CEO, Mark Tanzer, asserts that despite the pressure of living expenses, the eagerness to travel remains strong and is expected to continue into 2024. "We're anticipating a busy time this month, with many heading for the ski slopes or in search of some winter sunshine," he said. "Everyone is looking for a great deal, and our research indicates that many will choose package holidays."
