Press release: 2009 travel predictions

MEDIA RELEASE: Tuesday 16 December 2008

2009 travellers will spend wisely on classic trips says responsibletravel.com

Leading ethical holiday company responsibletravel.com is predicting a further increase in traditional holidays closer to home and a return to longer more classic travel experiences in 2009, as travellers aim to get maximum value from their holiday budgets.

Justin Francis, managing director, responsibletravel.com said:

“2009 will be one of the toughest years that the travel industry has ever faced. It’ll be tough for travellers too – many won’t take a holiday at all whilst others will cut out second and third holidays, choosing to stay at home – a ‘staycation’ – or with friends instead.

“Those that can afford additional breaks will explore much closer to home, particularly as the pound drops in value against the Euro - allowing them to save up the pennies and the annual leave for a longer annual holiday which will come in the form of classic, special travel experiences – those unforgettable once in a lifetime trips.

“Having made a tough choice to spend, travellers will want to ensure they are not disappointed and the ‘classic’ more dependable favourites – best in their category – will be the order of the day. Destinations such as Angkor Wat, Machu Picchu and the Masai Mara.

Incredible railway journeys , which epitomise slow and appreciative travel will be popular. And what could be more classic than a small group adventure holiday that takes in a number of destinations and experiences - proving great value for money too.”

Destinations – England tops the list

This year, responsibletravel.com has seen England jump from 11th to 1st place in its most popular destination list, with enquiries for England holidays increasing by 97%.

Classic Middle East destinations have also risen in popularity in 2008 – Syria by 94% and Jordan by 69%.

Cuba too has also increased 40% as travellers flock to the country before America lifts its travel embargo – predicted by many once Obama is in power.

The top 10 most popular destinations on responsibletravel.com in 2008 were as follows:

1)   England
2)   Egypt
3)   Thailand
4)   Greece
5)   India
6)   Tanzania
7)   Italy
8)   Turkey
9)   Peru
10) Spain

New to this year’s top 10 is Turkey – deemed to be good value as it is outside the Euro zone, as well as Spain .

Kenya has dropped from 3rd place in 2007 to 13th place this year due to the troubles that took place early on in 2008.

- Ends -

Notes to editors

About responsibletravel.com:
responsibletravel.com is the world's leading online ethical travel company, selling over 3,000 holidays from over 270 specialist operators and 550 accommodations. All the holidays meet specific responsible tourism guidelines and aim to create better places for people to live and to visit. Launched in 2001 with backing from Dame Anita Roddick, the website is for travellers who want more real and authentic holidays that also benefit the environment and local people. The organisation - based in Brighton, England - also campaigns for positive change in the travel and tourism industry.

Contact:
Krissy Roe
press@responsibletravel.com
01273 648 519 or 07717 348 368