While well-known hot spots are still firm favourites, including the United States, Italy and France, other more distant locales are also emerging as desirable destinations. Known as a leading trend forecaster in the industry, Virtuoso has surveyed its UK travel agency members to uncover the hidden gems and popular-with-good-reason destinations on everyone’s wish list.
Top European destinations for October half-term:
- The Cotswolds
- Italy
- France
- Portugal
- Greece
UK staycations are increasingly popular and the Cotswolds provide the perfect picturesque break. October half-term often gets chilly so UK holidaymakers are heading for sunnier climes only a short-haul flight away. These European destinations are all well-known for their cuisine and wine, keeping all family members happy.
Top worldwide destinations for October half-term:
- United States
- Maldives
- United Arab Emirates
- Mauritius
- South Africa
The United States is always a popular destination for UK travellers with the 50 states providing ample opportunities for all manner of travellers. The Maldives and Mauritius are picture-perfect beach destinations for relaxation before the stress of the Christmas season kicks in. With plenty of new hotel and resort developments, United Arab Emirates has become a stand-out location whilst South Africa allows holidaymakers to gain a well-rounded experience: from beaches to safaris, cities to vineyards, it has it all.
Top worldwide destinations for the festive season:
- Maldives
- United States
- Sri Lanka
- Mexico
- Thailand
Temperatures may drop during the UK’s festive season but travellers are looking to combat this by heading to sunnier destinations. Tropical locations like the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Mexico and Thailand are always popular with their stunning beaches being fantastic settings for an unusual Christmas dinner.
Upscale British travellers are also venturing to a variety of lesser-visited destinations, particularly in Africa and Asia, including Rwanda, Uganda, Bhutan and Vietnam.
Top travel trends:
- Beach destinations
- Family trips
- Multigenerational travel
- Wellness & spas
- Celebration travel / Ultra-luxury and exclusive-use travel (tie)
As expected for holiday travel, beach destinations and family trips were the most popular. Both travelling with immediate family and multiple generations made the top five, showing the desire to be with family at this time of year. Wellness and spa trips have become more popular as stress levels increase, and they provide a fantastic way to focus on oneself in preparation for the year ahead.
Top travel experiences:
- Wellness, spa and relaxation
- Insider tours with a local
- Exclusive access to rare experiences
- Experiences with local culture
- Food and beverage experiences
As seen in the top trends, wellness and spa breaks are extremely popular with the UK population, and spending holidays being pampered is continuing as the most popular travel experience. Insider tours and exclusive access to rare experiences ensure travellers are enjoying the hidden treasures of their holiday destinations and allow them to leave with new knowledge and skills. The holiday season is synonymous with enjoying both food and beverages so it is the perfect time of year to seek a gastronomic experience.
