OPERATORS and agents are bracing themselves for a slump in
sales as prices are slashed to entice holidaymakers away from the UK.
Both reported a mixed week in the wake of the US crisis,
with some holidaymakers cancelling their trips for fear of war breaking out,
while others are happy to haggle for the cheapest deal.
At a traditionally healthy time for last-minute bookings –
in the run up to the October half-term – late bookings to Greece and Spain are
now being offered at £99, with some as low as £59 for a week in Majorca.
Cadogan Holidays managing director Gary David said: “In an
attempt to sell anything, the big boys are slashing prices to fill seats, just
so they get something in return. They are not doing anybody any favours.”
Sunvil Holidays managing director Noel Josephides accused
operators of misjudging the mood of the market.
“Low prices will stimulate travel when we start coming out
of this,” he said.
JMC sales director Ian Derbyshire admitted prices had come
down earlier than usual but insisted JMC had less stock to sell than the same
time last year.