2016 is shaping up to be a good year for travel, with a second travel company reporting strong sales during the first few weeks of the year.
New figures from STA Travel revealed a 26 percent increase in total sales during the first two weeks compared to the same fortnight 2015.
A mix of popular and rising hot spots contributed to the growth, with trips to North America seeing a seven percent spike in sales while Europe grew 20 percent and Africa up 26 percent.
Sales for South America jumped by 16 percent on last year, an upward trend STA expects to continue throughout 2016 as more travellers plan last minute getaways to the Rio 2016 Olympic and Paralymic Games.
“The increase can partly be attributed to the upcoming Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro and additional capacity.”
Andrea Robinson, STA Travel Product Trading & Marketing Director
“Customers are also extending their travel to include Mexico and Cuba and returning via the USA. South America is definitely one of the hottest destinations this year.”
With so many more international destinations booked, it shouldn’t come as a surprise to hear flights sales were also up 13 percent for the same period.
Robinson continued, saying the company is “delighted” by the strong start to 2016 and thanked “market-leading prices and products” for the overall growth.
“With the uncertainties surrounding our dollar, travel in 2016 is all about value and STA Travel specialises in affordable holidays,” she said.
Meanwhile, P&O Cruises’ latest investments (ship upgrades, new vessels and additional itineraries) are paying off, with the cruise line reporting 84 percent more sales during the first seven days of the year compared to the same week last year. Read on.