Travel news
Trying to book a holiday in 2020 is like having a flutter at the races – there’s every chance you’ll be on to a winner, but there’s always that looming risk of backing the wrong horse.
With quarantine restrictions increasingly dished out with very little warning, it feels like there are no longer any safe bets.
Many travellers are stepping on the brakes and turning their attention to next year – a rosy future on the horizon, when Covid chaos will hopefully be under control.
What few people realise is that some key periods are already booking up. Many cancellations have been rolled over from this year, and there are also a considerable number of fresh bookings as people seek to make up for precious lost travel time.
It’s hard to imagine where we’ll be in six weeks – let alone six months – but several trends are beginning to emerge.
Bucket lists boom
During lockdown, the only way to explore was in our dreams. Now wild, adventurous thoughts are edging closer to a reality with bookings up for once-in-a-lifetime trips.
Shipshape is small
Given the controversy around cruising and coronavirus, it’s hardly surprising most people are opting for smaller vessels next year.
Slow travel ramps up
While we’re all desperate to see normality resume, none of us want to return to the fast lane. As a consequence, people are choosing to move at a slower pace.
Seasonal sights
It’s always been advisable to book ahead for popular events. Even more so in 2021, given the number of shifted bookings from this year and the prospect of limited flight capacity.
Entry restrictions
It’s not only seasonal spectacles that are selling out. Many galleries, museums and attractions are still operating on the basis they may only be able to admit limited numbers.
Last-minute / long-term
Uncertainty has resulted in many travellers booking holidays at the last minute to ensure it’s still possible to reach their destination. That trend may continue into next year, but a number of people are planning ahead – even beyond 2021.