In our regular market update, we take a look at the latest trend among holidaymakers for long-haul destinations and the rise in the level of early bookers

In our regular market update, we take a look at the latest trend among holidaymakers for long-haul destinations and the rise in the level of early bookers

Travel agents are reporting an increase in bookings for long-haul breaks.

Australia, Canada and the Far East are proving to be among the most popular destinations.

Manchester-based Dykes Travel managing partner Geoff Dykes said:”The popular holiday destinations at the moment include Australia, the Caribbean and the Mediterranean.

“A lot of people are also making bookings for the Christmas period. I think it’s the time of year, but we are also seeing a rise in bookings for weekend and city breaks.

“Other locations like South America, which was put on the back burner for a while, are also getting popular. People want to try new places.”

The trend for last-minute bookings is starting to fade, as travel agents attempt to educate clients about the benefits of making early bookings.

“People now realise that if they leave it to the last minute they will not get a better package,” Dykes added.

Franchise proprietor Clair Roberts of Let’s Go Travel, based in Bude, Cornwall, said: “The autumn trend seems to be for the Caribbean and places such as Sri Lanka and Goa – cheaper long-haul destinations.”

However, Quest Travel, based in Kingston, Surrey, does not cater for the package holiday market, instead organising flights or tailor-making holidays outside Europe.

Marketing executive Catherine Roa said:”This time of year people are booking for Australia and South Africa. In general though, South Africa is very busy, more so than previous years.”