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South Australians are flocking to Asian destinations to escape the winter chill, with bookings to the continent up by 38% in the last 12 months, new RAA Travel data shows.
The top three international destinations for bookings at RAA Travel this financial year are:
1. Bali – 37% of bookings,
2. Japan – 16% of bookings, and
3. Thailand – 12% of bookings.
Of the three, Japan has recorded the highest year-on-year growth (84%) as holidaymakers seek a new cultural experience at a more affordable price tag.
RAA Travel General Manager Gina Norman said more South Australians were opting for Asian holidays this year.
“The growth of holiday destinations in Asia has been extremely strong – particularly as South Aussies try and escape winter back home,” Ms Norman said.
“Bali continues to top the list, but Japan has rocketed into second spot with a massive 84% growth in bookings over the last 12 months.
“In winter a lot of people head to the northern hemisphere chasing the warmer weather, to destinations like Europe, North America or Asia.
“This year we’re seeing a lot of growth in Asian destinations which may be driven by a number of factors, but largely we think it’s affordability driving that demand.
“As a destination, Asia has a number of benefits compared with other northern hemisphere locations – generally speaking it’s more affordable, closer to Australia and we have a lot of direct flights out of Adelaide.”
Ms Norman said if people were considering a last-minute winter escape to Asia, there are still plenty of flight availability and deals on offer.
“You can still get direct return flights from Adelaide to Bali in July-September for $600pp with Jetstar,” Ms Norman said.
“If you want to head to Japan – which so many South Australians are at the moment – you can get there for just over $1,000 with Malaysia Airlines.”
Ms Norman said other affordable packages on offer at RAA include seven days’ accommodation in Seminyak for $569 per person, and a 12-night Japanese cruise aboard Celebrity Millenium from $2,343 per person, twin share.
“Of course, if you need any help or don’t know where to start – give RAA Travel a call or drop in to one of our shops to chat to our amazing travel consultants.”
To book your next holiday visit travel.raa.com.au.