The Spanish island of Majorca is the most popular hotspot for British travellers eager for a holiday getaway this summer, according to a new study. Analysis by Expedia for travel in the July and August summer period reveals a 65 per cent increase on the overall number of searches from UK travellers compared to the same period last year with the Balearic Island topping the list.
But whereas last year, when Covid-related travel restrictions were much stricter around the world, searches from UK travellers were heavily stacked in favour of domestic destinations (35 per cent for overseas destinations versus 65 per cent domestic), this year the pattern has been reversed, with 65 per cent of searches for overseas destinations and 35 per cent for staycations.
Searches from UK travellers for overseas destinations have almost trebled compared to the same period last year with Majorca attracting a 255 per cent increase in UK travellers looking to visit its beaches, mountains and party resorts. Popular beach destinations, including Santorini, the Algarve and Ibiza, are next on the list.
European City breaks are also back on the agenda, with Paris, Barcelona and Istanbul recording the biggest search increases. Meanwhile, Expedia data reveals that searches for long haul holidays have also increased substantially across various continents, with New York, Orlando and Dubai, the most in-demand destinations.
Irene Roberts, director, Market Management UK, Expedia Group, said: “The pent-up demand for foreign travel is being released after two years of uncertainty, with UK travellers searching in their droves for overseas city breaks and seaside holidays in hotels, vacation rental properties or on cruises.
"We continue to see a lot of volatility in who is searching for what kind of travel and trends are still evolving quickly. Travel businesses need to keep a close eye on the data to make sure they attract the attention of the guests they want and secure their business.
"Those that recover the fastest will be those who create connections with guests and foster loyalty by ensuring they have a seamless, personalised experience.”
The table below shows the Top 10 most searched overseas destinations by UK travellers and the percentage change against the same period last year
Most searched overseas destinations |
Percentage change on last year |
|
| 1 | Mallorca |
+255% |
| 2 | Paris |
+465% |
| 3 | Santorini |
+105% |
| 4 | New York |
+345% |
| 5 | Algarve |
+50% |
| 6 | Barcelona |
+325% |
| 7 | Orlando |
+180% |
| 8 | Istanbul |
+330% |
| 9 | Dubai |
+145% |
| 10 | Rome |
+440% |
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