More Greeks to Travel Abroad for the Holidays

Christmas in Zurich, Switzerland. Photo source: Antaeus Travel

More Greeks this year will travel abroad for the Christmas and New Year holidays, according to figures gathered from Greek travel agencies by the Federation of Hellenic Associations of Tourist & Travel Agencies (FedHATTA).

According to the data, a 20 percent increase in bookings for trips abroad this year has been recorded, both for travel to Europe’s traditional destinations – London, Vienna, Switzerland, Finland, Belgrade – as well as for long haul destinations such as Central and Latin America and Australia.

FedHATTA also noted that bookings for travel to Arab countries – Egypt, Morocco, Jordan, Dubai – are seeing a continuation of the recovery that started during last years holiday season, with 2018 bookings up by 30 percent compared to last year.

“The recent data confirms the upward trend recorded in recent years in the trips of Greeks, with further strengthening in 2018,” the federation said in an announcement, adding that the criterion of consumer preferences remains the price, destination and offered services.

“Consumers do not necessarily choose the most cost-saving option, but the one they think offers the best value for money,” FedHATTA said.

Demand for travel to Greek destinations unchanged

Photo source: Visit Greece

In regards to bookings for travel to Greek destinations, the data shows that the demand has remained at last year’s levels.

“This is due to the high prices of services that lead consumers to opt for destinations abroad, as there are offers for travel abroad at particularly attractive rates,” the federation noted.

Favorite holiday destinations in Greece include Ioannina, Meteora, Tzoumerka, Trikala, Karditsa, Pelion and Arcadia.

FedHATTA also noted that bookings for travel during the holiday season were made early this year, from the very first days of December.