Tour operators and travel agents are reporting a surge in bookings for 23-24 season holidays at present. Some speculate that the sudden jump in enquiries is down to too hot weather (where it’s hot) or disappointment with Britain’s current summer weather but concern about possible travel disruption and excess heat and wild fires at summer destinations again making people think “ski”.
Within the jump in bookings there are trends emerging, with one online ski travel agency reporting they’re seeing a surge in bookings to Bulgaria. Heidi.com say bookings to Bulgaria have seen it jump from their fifth to second most popular destination, behind France. Heidi.com say their bookings to Bulgaria are up by 200%.
“Bulgaria is now as popular as Andorra and Austria, which you wouldn’t expect,” commented Marcus Blunt, Heidi Co-Founder, adding, “This is quite a shift in popularity. Bulgaria is proving popular with those who want lower-cost holidays and offers travellers great skiing at a great value. The Bulgarians are very welcoming with great customer service.”
Heidi.com report that Bansko (pictured) is their most popular Bulgarian destination, followed by Borovets. The most popular month for booking is February – however it is not so much families booking for half term as mostly couples, Heidi.com report.
“The most interesting fact is that 70% of the bookings are for less than 7 days – so it does appear this is for people looking for a great value way to still get a ski holiday and knocking a day or two off to make it happen,” a Heidi.com spokesperson said.
Heidi.com has reported sales of ski holidays to all destinations are currently more than double that of last year overall: up +107% on this time last year.
“Despite the economic climate, it’s clear that customers are still keen to have a fantastic ski holiday this season, but many are finding smart ways to save money where they can. You can make substantial savings by going on a slightly shorter trip, not flying on Saturdays, and choosing great value or lesser-known destinations,” Marcus Blunt concluded.
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