As the cost of traditional holiday destinations like Spain continues to rise, Tunisia and Egypt are emerging as new hotspots for budget-conscious travelers, offering affordable winter getaways with Tui Travel.
A New Era of Affordable Holidays: Tunisia, Egypt, and Bulgaria Lead the Way
Holidaymakers on smaller budgets are turning to Tunisia, Egypt, and Bulgaria as they seek affordable destinations for their annual breaks. According to Europe’s largest package trip operator, Tui Travel, these countries have become increasingly popular among consumers who can no longer afford traditional locations like Spain.
The Rise of Alternative Destinations
Tui’s chief executive, Sebastian Ebel, attributes the shift towards more affordable options to easing inflationary pressures and a leveling out of average holiday prices. Although the cost of a trip remains higher than in 2019, Tui believes that prices will remain stable for the time being.
“We also see quite often new customers who have less income but still want to travel,” Ebel said. “They have a budget of €1,000/£800 per vacation, and if they don’t see it in Spain, then they look for alternatives, and they find alternatives.” This is particularly true for destinations like Mallorca, which is expected to be full during the summer months, and the Canary Islands, which are already crowded in winter.
Tunisia and Egypt Return to the Scene
The resurgence of interest in Tunisia and Egypt marks a significant turnaround for these countries as holiday destinations. A series of Islamic State terror attacks around 2015 led to a decline in visitor numbers, but Tui’s efforts have helped restore confidence among travelers.
Tui reported an annual pre-tax profit of €1.3 billion (£1 billion) in the 12 months to September, a 35% increase compared to last year. The company attributes this strong performance to the success of its package holidays and cruise division. As part of its recovery from the coronavirus pandemic, Tui continued to reduce its net debt, cutting it by €500 million to €1.6 billion.
Bulgaria Joins the Affordability Club
Bulgaria has also become a more attractive option for travelers on smaller budgets. With over 20 million customers traveling with Tui in the 12 months to September, an increase of 7% on last year, consumers are continuing to prioritize spending on holidays despite economic pressures.
Addressing Local Concerns
Tui’s boss has taken anti-tourism protests in Spain’s most popular destinations seriously. He traveled to Mallorca and spoke to local people about the issues, highlighting Tui’s efforts to bring customers who stay in hotels rather than apartments, providing employees with good contracts and working conditions.
“We recognize that there is, in some areas, big constraint on housing,” Ebel said. “We have been and we are ready to build more housing for our own people.” This approach demonstrates Tui’s commitment to addressing local concerns while still offering affordable holidays to travelers.
- theguardian.com | Holidaymakers on smaller budgets turning to Tunisia and Egypt, says Tui
