Spain reigns once again for sun-seeking Britons. Tunisia rising in popularity, Turkey continues to grow.
Research conducted by On the Beach, the UK’s leading beach holiday specialist, has revealed Dubai, the largest city in the UAE and home to some of the best beaches in the world, as the fastest growing summer sun destination for 2019.
Booking data at the online travel agent reveals that whilst the UAE remains outside of the top 10 most popular summer sun destinations this year, Dubai is the fastest growing destination, along with the Caribbean island of Barbados and the once favourite North African hot spot of Tunisia.
Spain grabs top spot once againSpain reigns once again this year, with British favourites such as the Canary Islands, Balearic Islands and the Costas on the Mainland, proving as popular as ever, making it the most popular summer destination for 2019.
Greece retains its position this year, named the second most popular hot spot for sun-seeking Brits one again, followed by Turkey, which maintains its position in third place.
Portugal is the fourth most popular destination this summer season, with Cyprus replacing Malta in fifth place.
Most popular destinations this summer:
- Spain
- Greece
- Turkey
- Portugal
- Cyprus
- Malta
- Morocco
- Egypt
The Brexit Effect
Research conducted by On the Beach also reveals that whilst bookings to Europe continue to rise, 2019 is a big year for non-Euro destinations, perhaps suggesting that with the uncertainty surrounding Brexit, many people are looking further afield to destinations which may offer cheaper in-resort costs.
Destinations proving more popular this year compared to last include the Caribbean island of Barbados, Egypt, Tunisia, Turkey and the UAE.
Last minute bookings
Whilst the majority of British holidaymakers book their holidays well in advance in order to secure early booking discounts, booking data shows that those who have left it later, are looking for the best deals in Spain, Greece, Turkey and Portugal.
Holidays booked over the past four weeks reveal the sun-kissed islands of the Canaries and the Balearics, as the overall most popular destinations amongst Brits booking last minute summer holidays.
The ever-popular Portuguese region of the Algarve is proving particularly popular amongst late bookers, making it the third most popular choice.
Top five most popular destinations over the past four weeks:
- Spain
- Greece
- Portugal
- Turkey
- Cyprus
Alan Harding, Marketing Director at On the Beach comments: “With its year-round warm weather, the UAE is popular a destination this year and our data shows Brits are heading to the hot spot in their droves.”
“However, Spain continues to dominate but with Greece attracting high volumes of holidaymakers and the resurgence of Turkey, we may see more of a shift next year.”
“There are still some great value last minute holidays available for those who have yet to book their summer break, with holidays in Turkey available for just over £200 per person. If Brits can be flexible with their departure date and destination, there are some fantastic bargains out there.”
Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales.
She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.
