Popular destinations so far in 2018….

13.07.18 | Nathan Collins

As we are well over half way into 2018 I thought I would take this opportunity to report on popular destinations this year and where the trends are leading us into 2019.

A significant change has been when travellers are booking their holidays… with more clients planning further and further ahead than ever before. We have already taken bookings for 2020. On the other hand, with the beautiful weather we have been having lately, it has been noticeable how many clients are yet to arrange their Autumn break we enjoy our gardens and the delights the UK has to offer. I do have a little insider tip for you here; September can be surprisingly popular as many couples and friends choose to travel after the children are back in school. Destinations such as Croatia, Sicily and the Algarve in Portugal are already extremely full so our advice is to book early for Autumn breaks!

Elsewhere in Europe, Greece continues to be popular with the smaller, less commercialised islands such as Santorini, Ithaka and Paxos being three stand-out options. Santorini’s sunsets are sublime and it is most definitely a world-away from the more built-up resorts in the Mediterranean. As I type I’m looking at a fabulous trip to Ithaka from Birmingham, staying in a lovely boutique hotel with its own pool and just 35 rooms. It has great views and the reduced price comes in at just £690 per person – of course the price is subject to change as demand rises but I can highly recommend we look at these off the beaten track Greece holidays for late summer escapes.

Cruise holidays continue to grow in popularity and this year alone bookings have risen by about 20% with us compared to last year. Cruise companies take bookings a lot further in advance than some other holidays, and bookings are already open for 2020 to certain destinations, including river cruises. These have become very popular with the Douro Valley in Portugal one particular river cruise that requires very early booking as it often sells out! Some of the more luxurious 6* liners have announced heavy investment in their future with new ships planned from Silversea, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Crystal to name a few. Our team have all spent time visiting a variety of ships, such as Nicola who most recently toured Regent Explorer down in Southampton.

For short breaks; Lisbon, Prague and Florence have all been popular with us this year so far. All are easily accessible from the UK from local airports and have a wealth of cultural experiences to enjoy. We love Florence and recommend visiting some of the world’s best collections of art and of course sample the local specialities such as a gelato on the Ponte Vecchio. My fellow Director Oliver picked up a car in Lisbon and drove over to Sintra – a wealthy and historic area with mountain top sites to explore, a beautiful coastline national park and plenty to keep everyone entertained. It is a great area to explore by car.

Further afield, Russia has been a popular destination for us, no doubt due to the World Cup. Despite the country changing their visa requirements a few years ago which now require you to visit Manchester or London for the application, travellers have not been put off visiting. St Petersburg is the most western city’s and popular for ballet performances and the Hermitage art collection, as well as the opulent palaces. This is now easily combinable with Moscow by high speed train. We have a great escorted tour to combine both cities at a great price with 5* hotels, flights and comprehensive tour programme, starting from just £1,285 per person! Do contact us for more details. Mention the Journal for complimentary VIP lounge passes on this tour when you book before the end of August 2018, new bookings only.

Cuba is definitely on the up and we have great contacts who are able to arrange fantastic, unique excursions and experiences for our clients. We definitely recommend a few nights in Havana followed by a tour around the island, or a beach stay at the end to relax. It also offers good value for money with 1 week holidays starting from £829 per person with flights, 4* accommodation and transfers.

With more and more flight routes opening up and destinations coming onto the map, the world really is our oyster and we are here to create the perfect holiday memories, call us on 01543 258631, email vip@rbcollection.com or visit us only on Boley Park, Lichfield – next to the Co-Op with free parking.

 

 

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