It's not over for Staycations, says Hoseasons

Hoseasons has dismissed reports that ‘staycations’ are not here to stay.

The group, whose brands include Hoseasons, Cottages4you, English Country Cottages and Blakes, said its figures for the first six weeks of the year show that the UK will remain popular in 2011, despite reports to the contrary.

It said bookings for Cottages4you are up 11% on 2009 and 10% on 2010, while Hoseasons lodge and park are up nearly 9% on 2009 and 7% on 2010.

The company also reported growth in apartment and cottages bookings across its other brands.

“It’s early days for making predictions about the overall performance of the domestic holiday sector in 2011, but these figures are very encouraging,” said Hoseasons Group MD Geoff Cowley.

“One thing I do think is clear is that we’ve moved on from ‘staycation’ being a one year wonder, to UK breaks being a key part of British holidaymakers’ plans.”

He said UK shortbreaks are likely to do well, as people continue to manage their spending more carefully.

“Also the sales performance hasn’t simply been limited to one distribution channel, with trade sales slightly up and some very strong days for direct internet bookings,” he added.

By Bev Fearis