With the Office for National Statistics (ONS) having recently announced that the value of the pound has jumped again, hitting a two-year high which at its peak saw it fetching up to $1.65 against the dollar, Myles Stephenson, CEO of my Travel Cash, shares his views on what?s in-store for travel in 2014...
Winter breaks
For the first time in five years, the winter of 2012/13 saw increased demand from travellers looking to take on the adventure of winter sporting holidays, and we believe 2014 will be no exception, with holidaymakers once again looking to take to the slopes. With the pound still showing signs of instability against the euro however, we expect to see travellers venturing out of the Eurozone to get more bang for their buck, with budget ski resorts in Zakopane, Poland, Bansko in Bulgaria, and Polana Brasov, Romania offering some of the best deals.
As well as winter sports breaks, we also expect to see increasing demand from Britons looking to escape the bad weather in January by booking last minute breaks to catch some much needed winter sun.
Long-haul and quick-fix trips
At my Travel Cash, we have seen a significant increase in the number of people requesting express delivery for their currency, which seems to indicate a more spontaneous attitude from holidaymakers booking last-minute breaks; something which we expect to continue into 2014.
Our sales also indicate a trend towards travellers choosing to go further afield ? with New Zealand and Australia being popular choices for many ? but staying longer at their destination to avoid further travelling during their trip.
Hotel rates
Market reports suggest that hotel rates across much of the EU will decrease next year due to economic concerns at certain destinations. So this will present a great opportunity for travellers looking to secure a bargain, with Spain, France, and Italy among those countries set to implement reduced rates.
