What's Happening?
ABTA, The Travel Association, estimates that more than five million individuals will travel internationally during the Christmas and New Year period, from December 19 to January 4. December 19 is anticipated to be the peak day for departures, while Christmas Day
is expected to be the least busy. Popular destinations include mainland Spain, the Canary Islands, Portugal, and Turkey, with strong sales reported by ABTA members. Winter sun locations such as Palma de Mallorca, Dubai, and Sharm El Sheik are also favored. Additionally, travelers are opting for festive experiences at Christmas markets in cities like Tallin, Gdansk, Vienna, and Cologne, and traditional snowy holidays at ski resorts in France, Austria, Switzerland, and Scandinavia. Major UK airports are experiencing high passenger numbers, with Heathrow anticipating its busiest December and Christmas Day on record.
Why It's Important?
The surge in international travel during the holiday season highlights the strong demand for leisure travel post-pandemic. This trend is significant for the travel and tourism industry, which has been recovering from the impacts of COVID-19. The increase in travel can boost economic activity in popular destinations, benefiting local businesses and economies. However, it also poses challenges such as managing high passenger volumes at airports and ensuring adequate travel insurance coverage, especially for those heading to ski destinations. The travel industry's ability to handle this surge efficiently will be crucial in maintaining customer satisfaction and safety.
What's Next?
Travelers are advised to plan for busy roads and potential public transport disruptions, allowing extra time for travel to departure points. ABTA emphasizes the importance of appropriate travel insurance, particularly for those visiting ski destinations. As the holiday season progresses, monitoring the impact of increased travel on infrastructure and services will be essential. The travel industry may need to adapt quickly to any unforeseen challenges, such as weather disruptions or changes in travel restrictions, to ensure a smooth experience for travelers.
