Below, are some popular destinations, and useful tips to understand traveller preferences, thus to ultimately design unforgettable getaways at sunny warm destinations.
The Power of Early Booking at Popular Tourist Spots.
With thousands of holidaymakers seeking to escape the clutches of winter, it is always important to impress upon your clients the importance of booking winter sun holidays well in advance.
This proactive approach unlocks a treasure trove of benefits which you should share with them, and that we will list below:
> They Enjoy Benefits of Cost Savings: Booking early allows you as an ITA to leverage early-bird discounts and promotions for clients from your partners which you will find offered by many airlines, tour operators, and accommodations.
As the holiday season approaches, prices tend to climb sharply, so securing deals early translates to significant savings for your clients.
> You Can Make Better Accommodation Choices: Popular tropical destinations accommodations and resorts fill up quickly during peak winter sun seasons, so it’s far better to book as early as possible.
Early booking for clients further guarantees a wider selection of hotels, resorts, and private villa options for them. This allows you to tailor the accommodation to your client's specific needs and preferences, and most importantly, their budgets.
For example: Perhaps you could secure a beachfront family suite, an all-inclusive villa, or a luxurious all-inclusive travel package for clients before they disappear!
Insights into Some Popular Winter Sun Destinations:
a) Around Europe.
For European sun-seekers, a delightful blend of culture and sunshine awaits:
> Spain: A perennial favourite, especially for UK travellers. Spain boasts stunning coastlines like Costa del Sol, Costa Brava, and Costa Blanca. These havens offer miles of pristine sandy beaches, perfect for soaking up the winter sun. Beyond these beaches, cultural treasures abound, from the captivating architecture of Barcelona to the rich history of Seville.
> Italy & Greece: here you can plan for clients to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Italy and Greece. Plan for them to explore the ancient ruins of Rome or relax in the turquoise waters of Santorini – all under the warm winter sun.
> Turkey: This has become an increasingly popular choice because Turkey offers a unique blend of European and Asian influences. Beach resorts along the Turkish Riviera provide luxurious escapes, while historical sites like Istanbul captivate with their architectural marvels.
b) The Canary Islands: Another Haven for UK Families.
For UK families seeking winter sun, the Canary Islands (Gran Canaries, Tenerife, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura) are a haven, and very popular options for many holidaymakers, particularly families. With year-round sunshine, beautiful beaches, and a plethora of activities, these islands cater to all ages, and there are tons of activities to enjoy there.
> Tailored Recommendations: Go beyond mentioning the Canary Islands and what to expect there. Go a little deeper to highlight specific resorts like Puerto del Carmen in Lanzarote, known for its family-friendly atmosphere, or Costa Tegus’ for its water sports activities.
> Client Accommodation Options: Emphasize to your clients the variety of accommodation choices – hotels, resorts, private villas, and self-catering apartments – to cater to diverse budgets and travel styles.
> Tenerife's Popularity: For this destination, it is vital to advise your clients that Tenerife, being a top choice, requires extra early booking to secure ideal all-inclusive packages.
c) Beyond Europe: Winter Down Under, in Australia.
For clients seeking a longer-haul adventure, Australia beckons with its warm welcome, friendly locals and of course the mild winter temperatures.
> Offer City Breaks and Beyond: Cities like Perth and Sydney provide a wide option of accommodations for couples and families. Beyond the urban landscapes, Australia boasts diverse experiences – from exploring the rugged beauty of the Outback to marvelling at the Great Barrier Reef.
> Summer Delights: While winter offers pleasant temperatures here, encourage clients to consider extending their stay into the Australian summer (December to February) to experience the best weather conditions, with temperatures reaching a delightful 35°C.
d) Around South Africa: A Budget-Friendly Winter Escape.
South Africa offers a budget-friendly winter sun escape with stunning beaches in Cape Town and Durban., plus many other options at game reserves, and a diverse range of cultural experiences and activities.
- Their Safety First: Advise clients to research safe tourist destinations using travel advisories before booking and making their travel choices. Reliable resources like government travel advisories can be invaluable, and as an ITA you can do a lot in assisting them with planning.
- In Peak Seasons: Highlight the peak summer season (September to January) for the best weather conditions in South Africa. It can often be relatively hot during these summer months so always recommend sun safety.
Based on recent research 2023/4 into tourist data, Spain remains one of the most popular winter sun destinations for UK travellers, particularly due to its ease of accessibility and multiple flight options.
- Recommend to them popular Spanish coastlines like Costa del Sol, Costa Brava, and Costa Blanca, known for their extensive sandy beaches and opportunities for water sports, golf, and cultural exploration.
The Algarve, Portugal's premier tourist destination, attracts millions with its luxurious resorts, vibrant nightlife, delicious cuisine, and diverse activities.
A destination everything from championship golf courses for golfing enthusiasts, to historical sites for history buffs, the Algarve caters to a wide range of traveller interests.
These are some currently popular options for travellers seeking warm climates, fabulous beaches and a wide range of activities and adventure. With a little research online you will be able to find many of the top winter escapes for travel planning for your holiday maker clients
