Staycations Increase in 2011

The number of Staycations taken by UK holidaymakers where up 3% in the first half of 2011 according to VisitEngland, the national tourist board of England.

Staycation is a relatively new term used to describe the growing trend of holidaying at home due mainly to the tough economic climate. The increase in the number of such UK breaks is, it is believed, owed partly to the extra bank holiday in 2001, introduced for the royal wedding as well with good weather experienced in the early part of summer.

The report regarding staycations, which was released at the Association of British Travel Agents convention in Majorca, also showed increased spending by holidaymakers year on year, listing an increase of 10% compared to the previous year.

VisitEngland were however quick to issue a warning before hotel owners got too excited, suggesting a lack of consumer confidence and poorer weather later in the summer may lead to businesses under performing throughout the school holiday period.

Referring to the figures in the report James Berresford, Chief Executive of VisitEngland said “We know the trend for staycations is still popular but we must continue work hard ensuring that it continues and that UK holiday makers continue to be inspired to choose England as their main holiday destination for 2012.”

Although the end of summer did turn out to be a little disappointing Scarborough hotels did get a welcome boast in September with an unexpected period of warm weather. The bizarre weather saw locals, visitors and holidaymakers making the most of the sunshine on the beach right up until 1st October.

By admin in National News on November 11, 2011