British Holidays are here to ‘stay-cation’

2009 has undoubtedly been an outstanding year for UK holidays, but it isn’t going to be a flash-in-the-pan according to Hoseasons, the UK’s leading self-catering operator, as they announce advanced bookings for 2010 are already up by 61%.

The figures reinforce the view that 2009 has given holidaymakers a renewed interest in UK breaks, and after experiencing the best Britain has to offer they are set to return in 2010.

“We had an unprecedented opportunity to showcase the UK and these figures demonstrate that people haven’t been disappointed,” said Richard Carrick, Chief Executive of Hoseasons Holidays. “Without doubt UK holidays have always been popular, but in the last 10 years it has been a challenge for companies to adapt to a weak euro, low-cost flights and last minute booking trends. 2009 has given us the chance to turn the tide in favour of British breaks.

“There have been a number of surveys showing people intend to stay in the UK next year, but until they actually book it is natural for the industry to remain sceptical. Our figures therefore represent some of the first tangible proof of 2009 being a tipping-point for UK breaks. What is also significant is that the 61% increase in advanced bookings is set against the growing trend in last minute purchases – so these figures are growing despite consumer buying habits moving the other direction, which makes them even more remarkable.

“The key to the continued success of the UK breaks is to lead the way in development of new and innovative packages and experiences. To do this we have just launched our ‘Go Active’ breaks, working with Sport England and sports governing bodies, to provide customers with a range of indoor and outdoor active experiences for all ages and types. This new range will provide holidaymakers with the biggest ever selection of UK sporting activity breaks, supporting the Government’s Change4Life initiative, and will be the perfect lead into the much anticipated 2012 Olympic Games.”

“We will be launching the new programme in 2010 at five flagship ‘Go-Active’ sites in the Scottish Highlands, South Devon, East Sussex, Snowdonia and the Isle of Wight. We have also identified a further 140 parks which have access to sporting facilities or venues. In total we can host up to 1m holidaymakers taking sporting break next year.”

Highlights from the new Go Active range include:

- ‘Ready Steady Go’ a programme for children to enjoy swimming, cycling and a FUNdamentals programme supported by British Gymnastics
- ‘Go Wild’ adrenalin-pumping activities including White Water Rafting and Rock Climbing
- ‘Go Pro’ professional coaching in Archery and Fencing
- ‘Go Discover’ opportunities for horse riding and mountain biking
- ‘Go Slow’ more leisurely activities including short mat bowls, petanque and sports massage

In 2009 bookings across all the products are on average up by 31% overall, with the Easter and August bank holiday periods completely selling out.

For more information on UK holidays visit Hoseasons.co.uk.