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www.nitravelnews.com
June 2024
Travel at Alana Opens First Store in Lurgan
European Tourism Experiences Robust Recovery in First Months of 2024
ACCORDING to the European Travel Commission’s (ETC) latest report, ‘Monitoring Sentiment for Intra-European Travel’ Wave 18, intention to travel between May and October 2024 among surveyed Europeans has reached 75%. This marks a significant 3% increase compared to the same period last year. 37% of respondents intend to embark on a single trip, and
57% are gearing up for two or more getaways during this period. Destinations in Southern Europe are preferred by 43% of travellers, with Italy and Spain topping the list. With European air traffic now within touching distance
of pre-pandemic levels, intention to fly to vacation spots has reached 55%, an increase of 5% compared to the same period last year. Meanwhile, 28% of travellers plan to drive to their destinations, and 13% are opting for more eco- friendly travel by train or bus. Commenting on the findings, Miguel Sanz, President of
ETC, said: “It is very positive to see Europeans maintaining their desire to travel despite the ongoing geopolitical and economic circumstances. Popular destinations will continue their strong performance this summer season, but there are also great opportunities for lesser known and quieter destinations as many travellers look for peaceful, authentic experiences.”
Europeans determined to travel this spring and summer
Despite security concerns and financial constraints, Europeans are displaying remarkable resilience when it comes to travelling this summer season. Enthusiasm for travel is cutting across all age demographics above 25, reaching up to 81% among more mature travellers (aged over 55).
This determination, coupled with a desire to secure a holiday at a more favourable price, leads to early bookings. Some 52% of European travellers (including 56% of those aged 18-24) have already fully or partially booked their upcoming trips. The most popular trip length is four to six nights, favoured by 36% of respondents. This is followed by seven to nine nights (26%) and more than ten nights (21%). Travel budgets have stayed consistent compared to a year ago, with 42% of respondents planning to spend up to €1000 per person on their next trip, covering both accommodation and transportation costs.
Perceptions of safety crucial when choosing a destination
Amidst geopolitical tensions, extreme climate events and economic uncertainties, prioritising safety has become paramount in shaping travellers’ decisions. Feeling safe is the number one criterion when selecting a destination (16%), followed by pleasant weather (13%), bargains and attractive deals (11%), friendly local communities (9%), and lower cost of living at the destination (8%). Despite the strong desire to travel, 22% of Europeans are worried about escalating travel expenses, and 17%
Simon Community NI Receives Funding Boost from Belfast International Airport
LEADING homeless charity Simon Community NI, has received £5,000 support through an initiative managed by Belfast International Airport’s owners VINCI. The VINCI UK Foundation, which
INTRODUCING Travel at Alana: Your Premier Travel Consultant Partner
are concerned about personal finances amid the current economic climate. Additionally, geopolitical
tensions,
such as the conflict in Ukraine and unrest in the Middle East, are adding to anxieties, with 12% and 10% respectively expressing unease. Disruptions in transport options (10%), overcrowding (9%), and extreme weather events (8%) are other important sources of concern.
Scenic beauty and local cuisine top holiday preferences
A significant proportion of European travellers are gearing up for intra-regional trips during May-June (34%) and July-August (44%). Additionally, 17% are planning on travelling in September and October. Leisure travel is on the rise, with 74% expressing a desire to indulge – a 5% jump on last year. Italy and Spain top the list of summer destinations this
year, each capturing 8% of respondents’ interest, closely trailed by France (7%), Greece (6%) and Germany (5%). This line-up reflects Europeans’ desire for Sun & Beach trips (20%) and City Breaks (16%), which emerged as the most popular types of holiday for the following months. European travellers cite enjoying scenic beauty (19%) as their most preferred holiday experience, followed by trying local cuisine (17%), engaging with local cultures (15%), and admiring famous landmarks (15%).
Aviation Watchdog Wins €1m
easyJet Holidays Named One of The Best Places to Work 2024
EASYJET holidays has been named one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2024, as one of the top ten most loved big companies. The tour operator was given recognition for the employee experience it provides, as voted by employees through a companywide survey. New performance shares, a weekly peer-to-peer thank you scheme and a fortnightly ‘permission to pause’, which allows employees to step away from work for two hours and do something for their wellbeing were called out as some of the factors contributing to the award win.
The operator launched in late 2019 with a team of 50, before facing the industry wide challenges of the pandemic. It has since become the fastest growing, lowest cost and highest margin travel company in the UK, expecting customer growth of 34% in 2024 and increasing market share from 5% to 7%. The team is now made up of over 300 people with the business having recruited from sectors including travel, retail, technology and government.
is part of a group of UK based VINCI companies, awards funding annually to charities who are working to support marginalised and vulnerable people across Northern Ireland. Simon Community NI has received a £5,000 grant towards its ‘Creating Homes Initiative’, which aims to address the shortage of quality social housing in Northern Ireland by purchasing and refurbishing homes.
Compensation for Passengers ACCORDING to the 2023 IAA annual report, the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) last year obtained €1m in refunds and compensation for air passengers.
The report shows that last year it handled 4,969 complaints – 2,275 over cancellations and 2,444 over long delays.
The brand new travel agency opened in Lurgan on 11th May 2024. Travel at Alana is not just another travel agency; we are your personal travel concierge, dedicated to crafting tailor-made experiences that exceed your every expectation. With a team of seasoned travel experts at your service, we curate bespoke itineraries that cater to your unique preferences, ensuring every moment of your adventure is unforgettable.
“Our mission at Travel at Alana is to inspire and empower travellers to explore the world and enjoy amazing travel experiences said Carol Little, Founder of Travel at Alana . “We believe that travel is not just about visiting destinations; it’s about creating meaningful connections, immersing oneself in diverse cultures, and embracing unforgettable moments.” Travel at Alana has confirmed it is commitment to personalised service and attention to detail. From booking flights and accommodations to arranging immersive experiences and providing 24/7 support, Travel at Alana aim to handle every aspect of your travel journey, allowing you to relax and savour every moment.
About Travel at Alana :
Travel at Alana is a premier travel consultancy dedicated to creating unforgettable travel experiences for discerning travellers worldwide. With a commitment to personalised service and attention to detail, we craft tailor-made itineraries that reflect the unique preferences and aspirations of each traveller, ensuring every journey is extra special and completely memorable.
Travel at Alana is the latest exciting addition to the Alana family.
Abu Dhabi Stopover Stays ETIHAD Airways and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) have announced the launch of Abu Dhabi Stopover. The announcement was made at the Arabian Travel Market following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between DCT Abu Dhabi’s Director General for Tourism, His Excellency Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, and Etihad’s CEO Antonoaldo Neves. The Abu Dhabi Stopover, exclusive to Etihad Airways,
Etihad Airways and SCT Abu Dhabi Partner to Launch Free
invites guests flying through Abu Dhabi to turn their free stopover hotel stay into the ultimate holiday. The capital of the UAE is an exciting and convenient stopover destination, thanks to its world-class hotels, stunning beaches, vibrant dining scene and full-throttle entertainment. When booking flights with Etihad, guests now have the option to add a stopover and select a complimentary hotel as part of the online booking process. Guests can choose a free stay for one or two nights in a range of premier hotels across the city.
The vision is to increase the number of affordable homes to end homelessness for the long- term, benefitting homeless clients, families, young people, those with mental health and addiction issues, and asylum seekers. To date, the charity has purchased 18 properties; 14 are rented, and four are under refurbishment. Harriett Roberts, Director of Growth
and Engagement, Simon Community NI said: “We all need a decent, affordable place to call home and we are so grateful to Belfast International Airport staff for nominating us for their annual funding programme and for the very generous grant of £5,000. With their support, our ‘Creating Homes Initiative’
can continue
to make real progress in tackling Northern Ireland’s housing shortage.”
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