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Leading holiday operators Thomson and First Choice have launched new All-Inclusive brochures for the Summer 2010 season in response to the surge in popularity of all-inclusive holidays that allow customers to know the cost of their package holiday ‘up front’.
According to research from Mintel, the main increase in all-inclusive holidays has been within the affluent ABC1 socioeconomic groups, who previously have favoured self catering accommodation, enjoying the convenience of the larger family rooms and freedom to try different restaurants during their stay.
The last few years has seen the introduction of more 4 and 5 star all-inclusive properties in short and mid haul destinations such as Spain, Turkey and Egypt, offering a variety of both a la carte and buffet restaurants, larger family rooms as well as extensive facilities for children and adults alike. Consequently the more affluent travellers are choosing all-inclusive properties as these now offer the variety, convenience and superior standards they demand from their holidays.
“Many all-inclusives offer so much more than unlimited food and drink,” said Alex Loftus, Head of Short & Mid Haul and Product Development. “Added benefits such as Spa treatments, water slides and themed restaurants are often included, with many hotels also offering fantastic upgrades. For example the Flamingo Beach in Costa Blanca features an upgrade to VIP adults-only package, which includes private rooftop swimming pool, a private lounge area with DVD library and mod-cons including, plasma TVs, WiFi and even i-pod docking stations.“
All-inclusive holidays now make up 20-25% of all package holidays, with bookings having grown by 32% in the last five years as customers are attracted by the great value for money, convenience and extensive facilities they offer.The credit crunch and fluctuating exchange rates have accelerated the trend, as budget conscious customers continue to see the benefits in paying all holiday costs in pounds in advance of the holiday, where flights, transfers, accommodation and meals are taken care of, rather than leave themselves open to the whims of the market and financial uncertainty, such as hefty credit card bills on their return.
“More customers are looking at ways of making budgeting easier or their money go further,” continued Alex Loftus. “With these trends in mind, Thomson and First Choice have launched two separate brochures – ‘Thomson All Inclusive’ and ‘First Choice All inclusive’– featuring a wide selection of short and mid haul all-inclusive hotels and resorts. With properties ranging from 3 star hotels for those on a budget to luxury 5 star luxury hotels with activities and facilities, the brochures offer great value for money holidays.”
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
