The Canary Islands is the most popular destination this winter – although increasing numbers of cost-conscious clients are opting for cheaper trips in Turkey and Egypt, according to On the Beach.
The online travel agency’s Big Winter Sun Report shows that more than 40% of bookings for this winter are to the Canaries, with a third of those holidaymakers heading to Tenerife.
It said a “noticeable” trend is the rise of Turkey, with the agency’s consumer research showing more than half (52%) of Brits have either been to Turkey or are planning to visit within the next year.
Furthermore, more than half (57%) of the bookings for winter are all-inclusive – up by 8% since 2019.
However, five-star hotels bookings have increased by 20% since 2019.
The OTA said concerns about costs are prompting more all-inclusive bookings – but the increased sales for upmarket properties suggests many customers are spending more for a high-quality hotel knowing that food and drink will be included during their stay.
Zoe Harris, chief customer officer at On the Beach, said: “It’s no surprise seeing the Canaries taking top spot for winter destinations; it’s been a firm favourite of many Brits for a good number of years.
“However, on average, it’s one of the priciest locations for a seven-night all-inclusive stay and with cost being at the forefront of everyone’s mind, we’re seeing destinations such as Turkey and Egypt make a significant rise as a go-to winter sun escape.”
Malta is one of the cheapest destinations for a seven-night all-inclusive break, followed by the Balearics and mainland Spain.
Top 10 wintersun destinations:
Canaries (40%)
Spain (17.2%)
Balearics (8.5%)
Turkey (6.9%)
Greece (6.9%)
Portugal (4.9%)
Egypt (3.8%)
Cyprus (2.7%)
Malta (2.5%)
Morocco (2.1%)
Average cost of a seven-night all-inclusive holiday:
Malta – £282.57
Balearics – £294.89
Spain – £305.93
Morocco – £311.69
Portugal – £355.03
Turkey – £364.37
Greece – £364.91
Egypt – £378.47
Cyprus – £384.95
Canaries – £396.23
Pictured: El Duque beach at Costa Adeje, Tenerife.