Kuoni says bookings for 2021 are well ahead of what they would usually be at this time, with upgrading a trend.
It says the average spend per booking is up £683 from 2019 to £9,231 as customers looks to upgrade with business class flights, helicopter transfers and extra experiences such as hot air balloon flights.
The Maldives tops the list of the most popular long-haul destinations in demand, which has been given a boost by being granted a travel corridor and more direct flights. The appeal of isolated retreats with private pool villas, is also a draw, says Kuoni.
Antigua is the top island in the Caribbean while the Seychelles, safaris – especially Kenya and Botswana – are also proving popular, added the operator. Closer to home demand is rising for Italy and Greece, which Kuoni says are enjoying an upswing in bookings for summer 2021 as well as special occasion trips.
CEO Derek Jones said: “We’re seeing two types of travellers emerge, those who are prepared to book and travel at short notice and those who are planning much further ahead, aiming to travel in a year’s time or more – they’re enjoying making plans and are excited about the idea of heading off to see the world again.”
Top destinations for travel in 2021:
- The Maldives
- Italy
- Kenya
- Seychelles
- Greece
- Antigua
- Thailand
- Botswana
- Bali
- Sri Lanka
- Japan
