Travel Industry, News and Analytics

The UK Reveals the Number of Tourists That are Expected to Visit the Country During Christmas

UKinbound, the leading travel association in the UK, has released its new report regarding the number of international tourists that are likely to arrive for the festive season. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic remains the major hindrance for the hospitality industry of the country, so UKinbound doesn’t have its expectations high. The release states that the number of international guests visiting the UK for Christmas will be approximately 75% down in November and December compared to the same period of 2019. The 2019 Christmas season yielded the UK economy £4.25 billion.

Hotels in London, Edinburg, Manchester, and other major cities, as well as local tour operators and attraction companies, also do not expect a profitable end of the year. 89% of respondents that participated in a survey are sure that the number of foreign guests visiting the UK for Christmas will be lower than in 2019. The survey was taken before the new restrictions caused by Omicron, which may shrink the potential revenues even more.

Four out of five local hospitality providers, which participated in the survey, expect their revenues to be down 75% or more. Although many restrictions were lifted for international guests, it is still too early to talk about an influx of tourists. Local hotels were also asked whether they had cancellations of trips to the UK in November/December and what was the reason for that. It turns out that clients decide to postpone holidays in the UK, deferring their visits to 2022.

UKinbound also asked inbound tour operators and destination management companies about their expected revenues as they were responsible for bringing more than half of all international travelers to the UK in 2019. On average, these businesses expect their revenues to be down by 93% in November-December 2021 compared to the same period of 2019.

The industry was on the verge of survival prior to the announcement of the newest restrictions caused by Omicron. Christmas is traditionally one of the most important periods of the year for the hospitality industry. The latest restrictions make it even harder for international guests to visit the UK. Hotels across the country already see an increased number of cancellations for the end of the year. Tourists are increasingly interested in visiting the UK next year but today inbound tourism worth £28.4 billion in 2019 (the third largest export of the country) continues to be in deep crisis.

Individual City Guides

Tokyo travel guide

It is impossible to describe Tokyo in a few words. The capital of Japan is huge and multifaceted. On the one hand, this city is the embodiment of ancient Japanese traditions, and on the other this is a super modern business metropolis. Tokyo has grown from a small fishing village named Edo. Only several attractions from the shogun times remind of the old city. For a long time shoguns were the absolute rulers of Japan. One can feel the atmosphere of the old Tokyo in numerous palaces, temples and … Read further

Cuisine of Courchevel

Vacationing in Courchevel will appeal not only to fans of active pastime, but also to gourmets, since the resort houses a huge number of attractive restaurants. The La Montagne restaurant has opened in 2003, since then it has become a favorite holiday destination among connoisseurs of Savoyard specialties. Excellent cheese fondue, escargots and frogs legs are branded treats of this popular restaurant. All meals are cooked by skilled chefs on an open fire, so the obtained taste is simply … Read further

Traditions and festivals in Willemstad

Willemstad is a city in Latin America with European traditions. That is how it can be described in a few words. Just imagine a Dutch city framed by sandy beaches - that’s what Willemstad will be like. This is also reflected in the city's architecture and the habits of locals. Like many Dutch cities, Willemstad is characterized by ethnical diversity (it is home to over 100 nationalities). Therefore, locals are used to finding a compromise on many issues. That, in turn, says about tolerance, … Read further

Lesvos cultural sights

Most iconic landmarks of the island are located in the port city of Mytilene. Here you can see beautiful Byzantine buildings, ancient churches, monuments and examples of modern architecture. One of the main distinguishing features of the city is an abundance of beautiful Turkish fountains. They are located along the main road; Mytilene itself can boast more than a dozen of old fountains. The main symbol of the island is beautiful Genoese castle built on a high hill. After the recent … Read further

Agios Nikolaos attractions and entertainment

Rest on the beautiful beaches of the city remains the main entertainment for travelers. Ammos and Kitroplatia beaches, which are located near the center of the city, are the most popular, crowded and well-equipped for sports entertainments. Fans of more secluded rest and those, who have come to the resort with their children, are recommended to visit Havania beach. Divers should absolutely not forget to visit Creta's Happy Divers Center, where they can rent all necessary equipment and book a … Read further

Oldenburg for families and kids

One of the largest cities in Lower Saxony - Oldenburg - is a great option for a family holiday. Here, besides numerous attractions (Oldenburg Castle, the Town Hall, St. Lambert's Church), children will like entertainment centers and parks where you can have a nice walk or picnic. Outdoor activities ideal for the whole family include zipline, golf, SUP-boarding. The first place to go with kids while in Oldenburg is Olantis Huntebad Water Park. The complex houses a swimming pool, three water … Read further

Shopping in Istanbul

Istanbul is an ideal city for lovers of shopping. It is full of luxury shopping malls, colourful markets and original stores. Osmanbey area is a perfect place for purchasing new clothes and shoes. It includes shops of different price categories. Both young people who prefer the most unusual and trendy details, and lovers of classical style will be able to choose suitable things for themselves. This district is also known for its excellent children's clothing stores and perfect textiles. No less … Read further

Extreme and fun in Puerto Vallarta

Go Diving or Snorkeling in the Los Arcos Marine Park. 5 Islands of the Los Arcos archipelago are located 12 kilometers south of Puerto Vallarta. They have had the status of a national marine park since 1984. If you come here on a pleasure boat, you can watch the birds. They live on this stretch of land. You can also see the coastal tunnels, stone arches, and caves. You can go diving or snorkeling near the steep shores of the picturesque Islands. You will have the opportunity to see coral reefs, … Read further