Lockdown ends with a holiday booking frenzy

Reservations up 80% on 2019 in big getaway rush

-  Giles Sheldrick

LOCKDOWN-WEARY families are scrambling to book holidays as the summer season looks set to last for the rest of the year.

Airlines, resorts and operators have seen a surge in demand for breaks, particularly in the autumn, and reservations are up by 80 per cent on 2019 bookings.

The appetite to finally get away, no matter when, has led some to predict this year will see the longest season yet.

Hays Travel said a quarter of its current bookings were for this season, with the rest for summer 2022. Three-quarters were for short-haul destinations.

Susan Wear from the company said: “Things are changing daily so we are advising customers within Government guidelines to help them choose a holiday for when and where it’s safe to do so.

“Those who are booking for next year are taking advantage of some really good offers and the opportunity to spread the cost by direct debit.

“There are still excellent round-Britain cruises by some of the top operators and luxury ships which are starting up from early May and selling fast. These are really the next best thing to a holiday abroad.”