Youtravel flexes programme to meet fluctuating winter demand

Accommodation specialist youtravel.com has claimed a doubling in winter bookings over this time last year.

Around 30% of total estimated winter sales are already booked although demand is fluctuating.

Winter bookings are expected to account for 27% of overall 2008/09 revenues for the company.

Sales and marketing director Paul Riches said: “Although we have predicted the above, there has been a slow down in winter bookings over the last few weeks, due to the impact of XL on the traditional winter hotspots, especially Egypt.

“However, the great thing about our business model is that we are able to be flexible with winter/summer revenue splits – meaning that we are able to reduce risk.”

Egypt and the Canary Islands are the biggest sellers for this winter with Naama Bay and and Sharm el Sheikh proving the most popular Egyptian resorts, with Hurghada bookings are increasing. 

 Riches said: “For the Canaries, Playa de las Americas in Tenerife is our top seller but demand is coming through strongly for Costa Adeje too.

“Destinations which are selling very well alongside Egypt and the Canaries include Majorca, Malta and Cyprus. All are strong summer destinations but thanks to the consistent airlift into them during the winter too we’re seeing demand continue year-round. “

Long-haul bookings for the Christmas and new year period are claimed to be “significantly up” on this time last year with Florida, Dubai and Mexico leading the way.

Riches said: “Agents are really starting to embrace long-haul dynamic packaging options and these are the fastest growing destinations for us. We’ll be looking to add more long-haul resorts in the coming months in a bid to meet demand and increase choice.”

Riches cautioned that demand could change due to limited air lift following the XL Leisure Group collapse.

“We are conscious that demand could change because there are fewer flights available – e.g. fewer regional flights into Sharm after the demise of XL. Over the next few months we will get an idea of the shape and size of flying programmes available and will be able to look at our portfolio subsequently.”

He added: “Naturally we’re keeping costs under close supervision and an eye on how economic fluctuations are affecting travel plans. So far we’re seeing a polarising of the accommodation market with increased interest in both self-catering and all-inclusive options.

“Some people want to strip their holiday down to basics and then control their spending – others would rather pay a little more for all inclusive and then not have to worry about budgeting while they’re away.”

by Phil Davies