SINGAPOREAN travellers cannot resist the charms of Europe and less traditional destinations on the continent are gaining popularity for travel in 2015, according to a survey by Trafalgar. Egypt is also set to make a comeback when Insight Vacations restarts tours there in January.
In Trafalgar’s poll, the travel company asked Singaporeans where they intend to go next year. Greece, which saw a major resurgence in 2014, took top spot. It was followed by Switzerland, the UK, Turkey, France, Italy, the Czech Republic, Spain, Croatia, and Hungary.
Nicholas Lim, president of Trafalgar Asia, commented: “With these insightful results where the usual European destinations and cities continue to appeal to Singaporeans, such as London and Paris, we are also seeing new interesting trends where, for example, Turkey has become one of Singaporeans’ destinations of choice.”
The survey also showed that 44 per cent of Singaporeans plan holidays three months in advance, with 34 per cent planning half a year ahead. Singaporeans also value cultural interactions as their ideal enriching experience while on holiday.
Holidays are growing longer as well, with 33 per cent taking 10 to 12 days to travel, an increase from last year, though 34 per cent take a week off at a time.
Singapore travellers are going farther abroad. Destinations such as the US and South America have gained favour with Singaporeans – 51 per cent of Singaporeans expressed desire in visiting Rio de Janeiro, while 40 per cent are keen on going to New York.
Another longhaul destination that is returning to the travel radar is Egypt. Insight Vacations cancelled all tours to Egypt in 2013 after the destination was rocked by violence and political instability, but will resume tours there in January next year.
Robin Yap, president of The Travel Corporation, which is the parent company of both Insight Vacations and Trafalgar, said: “Guest safety is our number one priority, and we will continue to maintain extensive consultation and constant dialogue with our teams on the ground.”
Four new itineraries will be launched from January 8 including the nine-day Wonders of Egypt, 12-day Splendours of Egypt, 11-day Jewels of the Nile, and 12-day Wonders of Egypt and Jordan Experience.
