“Staycation†trend set to continue this summer
Wight Locations managing director Mark Curtis said: “Last year people almost stumbled into a UK holiday, mainly fuelled by two things; the recession and a rocketing euro.
“In 2009 holidaymakers were looking for value for money from their UK break; that is why the self-catering and camping sectors performed so well. People were still determined to get away but were being more careful with their money.
“I’m encouraged we are now seeing this momentum continue; if things keep going the way they are bookings in 2010 will be another record.”
Curtis, who has grown the business from covering 86 properties when he took over in 2005 to 130 this year, added: “If as an industry we can ensure people have another great experience then there is every chance we will have convinced them to look on the UK as their number one holiday choice – which would be a major achievement.”
But he added: “There are of course challenges; people are leaving booking until the last minute so we need to be ready to turn things around very quickly.
“Another is that the pound has grown in strength against the euro and it may well continue to do so once the uncertainty of the election is over and the new government takes steps to reduce public debt.
“But overall I am convinced the UK tourism industry is in for another good year.”
*TravelMole’s Travel Industry Question Time debate on the staycation is held on Thursday with full coverage appearing the following day.
by Phil Davies
Phil Davies
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