Airlines and tour operators are offering bargain prices over the coming weeks to revive sales hit by new testing rules and the surge of Omicron cases.
The Times said Christmas holidays have been “slashed” with 50% of some late departures, while airlines are “flooding” the market with cheap seats.
EasyJet is selling flights from Gatwick to Faro in Portugal for less than £50 return this month, for example.
Tui has a two-week self-catering holiday to Spain, departing from Cardiff on December 18, which costs £350 per person.
A spokesperson for Tui said: “We’ve got some great Christmas deals available for customers who want the ease of getting away from their local airport, and who prefer to swap the winter temperatures at home for some warmth and sunshine instead.”
The Independent says Jet2 Holidays has a one-week Malta holiday, flying from Manchester on December 19, for £258.
Julia Lo Bue-Said, chief executive of the Advantage Travel Partnership, said: “The onerous and constantly punitive restrictions imposed by the government have worked wonders in suppressing demand for an already fragile economic sector.
“Month on month we have seen sales decrease by 40%. When you consider most of the sector has traded at minus 90% since March 2020 you can start to comprehend the devastating impact restrictions continue to have for the sector.
“This isn’t just about holidays, it’s jobs, businesses and people’s livelihoods.”
She said that low fares and cheap deals will help stimulate bookings, but added: “However, it’s important for consumers to be aware of the flexible conditions applicable.
“If the fare isn’t flexible, consumers will still lose money however cheap the price.
“Our continued advice is to book with a travel agent who will be able to help consumers every step of the way with their holiday bookings.”
By David MG/Shutterstock