Premier Holidays is claiming a 10% rise in January bookings over the same peak booking month last year.
The third week of the month saw bookings jump by 28% on the same period in 2012 despite the snow and wintery conditions.
Tailor-made bookings have doubled to destinations such as South Africa, Canada, Indochina, Sri Lanka and New Zealand, according to the company.
Thailand and Malaysia are continuing to sell well, especially bespoke packages to both countries. Borneo is the top destination for Malaysia, while clients visiting Thailand are booking Elephant Hill – the country’s first luxury tented camp situated next to Khao Sok National Park.
The specialist operator is offering agents capital bond vouchers as a booking incentive with the amount awarded depending on the value of the booking.
Head of sales and marketing Debbie Goffin said: “The increase in bookings is a fantastic reflection on our reservations staff who are expertly trained in putting together unique and complex itineraries.
“In this area we can really work together with our travel agent partners to differentiate ourselves from what’s available for customers to do themselves online.”
She added: “Demand for Indochina and Burma is also increasing and we expect to see these destinations featuring in our top 10 for 2013. Clients are looking for a holiday with a difference and these destinations fit the bill perfectly.
“Clients benefit from a team who have travelled to the destinations and have first hand experience of the hotels. This, coupled with our competitive pricing and attention to detail helps keep us top of mind for the trade. We look forward to working together to make 2013 a prosperous year.”