HOW WE PLAN, EXPERIENCE AND SHARE OUR

THE KUONI WORLDWIDE REPORT 4 14 How people Best ways Introduction shop for holidays to see the is changing world For more than 50 years Kuoni has been at the forefront of the premium travel market and, as a result, is a regular and reliable barometer on premium travel trends around the world. As part of DER Touristik, one of Europe’s biggest travel groups, the Kuoni brand is thriving and evolving in the 22 UK market. Looking after the In this report we look back at the past 12 places we love months and ahead to 2019 to see what’s shaping the way we plan, experience and share our holidays.

16 10 Uncertainty for travellers around Brexit and the well documented The world New and challenges of the high street have dominated the news agenda. classroom noteworthy Whilst economic uncertainty, currency fluctuations and transport disruption always create jitters, this report shows that demand for premium holidays, particularly to Kuoni’s core long-haul destinations remains solid.

Whilst Britain’s exit from the EU will make 2019 a year like no other for the travel industry, this report indicates that holidays are not something that people will forgo easily. January remains the peak booking month for travel, but there’s a strong indication that in 2019 we will see holiday sales more evenly spread throughout the year as people wait to understand more about what exiting the EU really means. 20 Who we travel with Despite transformational technology, there remains a growing thirst for real expertise and advice. Conversations are still at the heart of holidays from planning them to remembering them in the years that follow. Real people play a vital role in creating and selling travel, something Kuoni continues to invest in. 8 Spotlight on the top ten

12 New and noteworthy 6 Top 25 destinations

2 | THE KUONI WORLDWIDE TRAVEL REPORT THE KUONI WORLDWIDE TRAVEL REPORT | 3 A RETAIL THEATRE DECADE How people COFFEE, TEA AND PROSECCO The buzz word in travel is on the experiential and that also In 2019 Kuoni broke its record and served more than 108,000 extends to shopping trends. shots of Nespresso coffee and Indian tea company cuppas high SHOP for Last year Kuoni hosted more combined, plus 11,160 glasses of Prosecco! The fridges are full than 500 people taking part and the kettle’s on for 2019… Street in cookery classes, author holidays is events, summer theatre at Chichester Festival Theatre and live Q&A sessions 2008 with Anita Rani – travel is changing increasingly a lifestyle and Kuoni opens the finding creative ways to first of its new- NEW FAMOUS FACE engage people with the brand style travel shops is part of the future of how in Kensington we shop. High Street Television presenter Anita Rani has become a Kuoni ambassador and has joined forces with Kuoni to create a 2011 series of live events based around her own travel adventures. As well as hosting events for customers in stores First travel agent she’s just returned from Sri Lanka, partner store with the purpose of creating a series opened in Bath of short films championing authentic and responsible travel. 2012

First John Lewis concession, NEW STORES, NEW DESIGNS at John Lewis Kuoni at Peter Jones, Sloane Square and at John Lewis White City opened last year and the next outlet will be at John Lewis, Trafford Centre in February 2019. Refreshed designs and interiors have 2018 added new energy to Kuoni stores in Bluewater and Solihull and more than 10 stores will be revamped this year. Kuoni within 18 branches of ON LOCATION TRAVELLING John Lewis and CLICK AND THE WORLD Partners CONNECT The so called “experience-economy” is driving a reinvention of SIMON REEVE PARTNER the shopping experience. The rise of lifestyle events and festivals 390 Kuoni travel experts 2019 Nearly everyone planning a ON TOUR TRAVEL AGENTS continues, with one of the most visited shows of 2018 being BBC are set to visit more than 30 Kuoni holiday starts online. Countryfile Live at Blenheim Palace. Through presence at live destinations this year to stay Yet navigating the plethora of As a partner of Simon Trusted independent leisure events throughout the UK, the Kuoni brand reached more at the forefront of worldwide New Kuoni at search results for a special trip is Reeve’s UK theatre show travel agents are thriving, than 350,000 people. Kuoni will up its attendance at events in travel trends. The past year John Lewis, complicated, which is why Kuoni in 2018, which attracted particularly for luxury and 2019 in line with the growth in live leisure experiences, with has seen travel experts visit Trafford Centre has further developed its “click more than 47,000 people, specialist travel, with Kuoni more than 60 travel experts getting out of the stores and being top selling destinations such opens Friday 22 and connect” strategy. Over Kuoni continues its long- reporting a 22% increase in places where people are actively looking for new ideas and as the Maldives, Sri Lanka, February the past 12 months, Kuoni has term partnership with the in sales through travel inspiration. Seychelles, Thailand and Bali, Total of 49 made significant advances to BBC presenter. Thousands of agents since last year. Kuoni as well as India, South Africa, Kuoni outlets, its online expert finder, making viewers watched his travels continues to invest in selling Canada, Jordan, California and including 19 it much easier for people to be to Russia, the Mediterranean holidays through hundreds LGBT SPECIALISTS the Galapagos Islands. Seeing within John connected to a specialist who and Burma, which show the of good independent agents places first hand is a vital Lewis & Partners has detailed knowledge of the light and shade of places throughout the UK and has People increasingly turn to Kuoni for specialist advice. part of what makes Kuoni Particularly valued are the team of LGBT experts, who planned destination which ultimately around the world. particularly close ties with stand out – customers value 11 partner travel honeymoons, weddings and special trips for a record number of results in the right holiday 11 businesses, which look and knowledge and expertise agency stores same sex couples and families. LGBT honeymoons are up 34% for them. feel like an extension of the more than ever. throughout year on year. Kuoni brand. the UK

4 | THE KUONI WORLDWIDE TRAVEL REPORT TOP 25 destinations

1 MALDIVES

2 SRI LANKA

3 THAILAND

4 MAURITIUS JAPAN

5 USA

6 BALI SAINT LUCIA 7 ITALY

8 INDIA

9 VIETNAM KENYA

10 SOUTH AFRICA Maldives

11 KENYA INDIA 12 ANTIGUA

13 AUSTRALIA

14 SAINT LUCIA

15 BARBADOS #20 16 NEW ZEALAND

17 CANADA #21 TANZANIA 18 MEXICO

19 UAE SEYCHELLES

20 TANZANIA

21 SEYCHELLES

22 MALAYSIA

23 GREECE #16 KUONI SELLS MORE THAN 90 DESTINATIONS AROUND THE WORLD 24 JAPAN NEW ZEALAND No change Seven countries Japan into the Spain dropped 25 CUBA in the top have moved up, top 25 for the first out of the seven destinations seven countries have time at #24 top 25 to #28 moved down

The top 25 list is based on those destinations which have seen the highest booking numbers for 2019 holidays at the time of going to press.

6 | THE KUONI WORLDWIDE TRAVEL REPORT THE KUONI WORLDWIDE TRAVEL REPORT | 7 Sri Lanka

Spotlight 5 USA The USA is a consistent performer but gets a much- needed boost this year from on the South Africa and hoteliers. Budget carriers Wow and Norwegian helped spark interest in TOP TEN secondary cities and now the premium market welcomes 7 ITALY flights into Charleston and Pittsburgh Italy is still Kuoni’s best-selling short haul destination and the only Our best performers from April. American Airlines European entry in the top 10. The top three performing areas are 2 SRI LANKA adds -Phoenix in March Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast, Lake Garda and Sardinia. There has 9 VIETNAM and Edinburgh-Philadelphia been expansion to the programme to places including Ischia which, are still strong Synonymous with adventure Sri Lanka packs a lot of variety into a single island, which helps in April and Delta is adding though small, is seeing strong demand for 2019 with sales up 95%. and touring, Vietnam is for 2019 explain its continued popularity. The British market already Edinburgh-Boston in May. following Thailand into the accounts for 254,000 out of an annual 2.3m visitors; a growth of Fly-drives are fuelling growth mainstream thanks to the 26% since 2017. Kuoni bookings for 2019 are 8% ahead of last for Kuoni with California and launch of direct flights in year, with private car and driver itineraries generating much of the New leading the way. 2011, and great value on demand. Just over half (53%) of Kuoni bookings are for multi-centre the ground. The country has itineraries with private drivers. Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, Bali slipped by one place in Kuoni’s rankings though, but a new flight from Bangkok to the island of Phú Quoc – a popular beach destination – could help restore its fortunes. Lake Garda

10 SOU TH 8 INDIA AFRICA Preskil Island At eighth position, India has risen two places up Kuoni’s top Down one place from last 6 BALI 10 with sales 4% ahead of last year. Dehli, Agra and Jaipur still year, the classic safari account for the lion’s share of business. Kuoni customers who have destination faces stiff Despite one of its toughest ‘done’ the Golden Triangle are returning to India to experience competition from East Africa: 3 THAILAND years in memory, Indonesia, Sandies Bathala, artist impression other must-sees including the River Ganges and Varanasi, as well Kenya is up from number 18 specifically Bali, retains its as the lesser known national parks such as Bandhavgarh and to 11 and Tanzania from 24 Still the most popular Far number six position. It’s Kanha. The southerly Kerala region is increasingly popular for to 20. But South Africa sales East destination for Kuoni, 4 MAURITIUS one of the top honeymoon those seeking a contrast to the north while first timers are treated for 2019 are strong helped by Thailand remains in number destinations, favoured not to a newly clean Taj Mahal, fresh from a two-year refurbishment. a new British Airways flight three position for another A pioneer of the barefoot only for its reliable climate 1 MALDIVES to Durban. The country’s surf year running with consistently luxury trend, Mauritius is still during the peak summer capital is home to its best Retaining its number one spot for the 16th year running, the strong sales. Demand is a firm favourite for weddings, honeymoon months, but beaches and its waterfront Maldives delivers a level of luxury that was unheard of a generation growing for some of the less honeymoons, families and also the diverse landscapes has had a revamp in recent ago. The destination saw an overall 10.2% increase in UK visitor traditional areas and smaller couples. New investment and variety of luxury , years. Cape Town is still numbers last year. With 20 properties due to open over the next islands such as Khao Lak for 2019 and beyond should many with pool villas. Despite popular, and drew praise two years and a second runway on Male scheduled to open this year, and Koh Lanta, which are up keep it safely in the top five: earthquakes, aftershocks from around the world while 2019 looks set for continued growth. Much of the development 50% and 22% respectively. Preskil Island Resort makes a and flooding creating 2018 managing its water supply is at the top end, but the newly renovated Sandies Bathala helps Affordability on the ground welcome return to the Kuoni headlines, it’s primarily a crisis last summer. Among Kuoni to balance its programme – the 300m-wide speck in the Ari is another reason Thailand programme following summer destination for Kuoni other solutions, careful Atoll is on trend with its simple slice of Maldivian charm making it a continues to perform well. a complete refit in 2018; and so far forward bookings rationing has shone a light on popular choice for affordable luxury in 2019. Real cultural experiences such C Mauritius is open again appear to be unaffected, with sustainability issues. as cycling tours, market visits after an expansion and June sales to date up 33%. and local food are what Kuoni renovation and Paradise Cove travellers are looking for. Boutique Hotel has a full

refurbishment planned for River Ganges, Varanasi, India later this year.

8 | THE KUONI WORLDWIDE TRAVEL REPORT THE KUONI WORLDWIDE TRAVEL REPORT | 9 New and noteworthy

EGYPT

Beyond the top 10 – What’s trending Beyond Security fears have subsided the top 10, and replaced by a new- some destinations found confidence in an old favourite resulting in Egypt are seeing rising seven places to 26th strong demand position. Kuoni relaunched its Egypt and North Africa programme at the end of ISRAEL 2018, tying in popular Moroccan destinations too, What is old is new again: the and the response has been Holy Land is hot for Spring, encouraging. Nile River with the launch of a dedicated Cruising is selling particularly Israel programme. A first well, but the opportunity to for Kuoni as a standalone visit the Pyramids or tie in a brochure, it is a collection of Red Sea break is especially 22 hotels in beach and welcome. Sharm el Sheikh is city destinations including still off the map, but as far as Tel Aviv, Eilat, Jerusalem and the rest of Egypt is concerned, the Dead Sea, with add on now is the time to go back. Holy Lavra of Saint Sabbas the Sanctified, near Bethlehem, Israel locations in Jordan. AJMAN

Dubai was practically unheard of 20 years ago – much like Ajman today – so this could be one to watch. Next door to Sharjah, Ajman has some of the best beaches in the UAE but is less expensive Pyramids, Cairo, Egypt than Dubai or Abu Dhabi. “Ajman is a destination in its own right, creating its own identity. With spectacular beaches, it’s proving more than just a stopover.” says Kuoni’s commercial director Wendy Kenneally. “Quality brands such as Oberoi, and the Ajman Saray offer a good EAST AFRICA Oberoi, Ajman value mid-haul beach break.” Time will tell if the Nairobi hotel siege in January will impact Kenya’s chance of success this year. Kenya and Tanzania both rose through the rankings in 2018; up seven and four places respectively and show no signs of slowing. Luxury camps, the wildebeest migration, world heritage sites, national parks and the Big Five in their natural surroundings make Kenya in particular a firm favourite JAPAN with Kuoni customers. Giraffe Manor’s appearance on Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond The Lobby and David Atenborough and the BBC’s Dynasties series about the Marsh Pride in the Maasai Mara also Rising three places, Japan has been making its way up the best-sellers list for the past created renewed interest. three years. Be it the Rugby World Cup, kicking off in Tokyo on September 20th, or the ABTA convention following in October, Japan will be getting plenty of exposure by the end of the year. That will only continue as Tokyo hosts the 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Sales to Japan are already up 74% year on year for Kuoni, and set to remain strong thanks to a new British Airways flight to Osaka, taking off on March 31st. Known as Japan’s foodie capital, Osaka is only 35 minutes from Kobe and an hour from Kyoto.

10 | THE KUONI WORLDWIDE TRAVEL REPORT THE KUONI WORLDWIDE TRAVEL REPORT | 11 Beyond the top 10, some destinations TURKEY are seeing strong demand While mainstream tour operators report a return to form for Turkey, for Kuoni it has come back from a standstill. For 2019, Istanbul and Cappadocia have been SINGAPORE added to the programme. Turkey has thousands of years Up seven places to number 29, Singapore enjoyed a publicity Cappadocia, Turkey of culture to draw on, but boost from the movie Crazy Rich Asians and the BBC’s Amazing reliable sunshine and good Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby. Giles Coren and Monica Galetti value premium hotels and visited the Marina Bay Sands – not quite as famous as Raffles have been critical but certainly larger, employing around 9,500 people. Business is in winning back visitors booming for Kuoni, with longer stays becoming more common. looking for a quality The publicity continues as the city state celebrates its 200th short-haul holiday from the anniversary this year. Experience it on Belmond’s Eastern & western Med. Oriental Express to Bangkok, reintroduced to the programme GREECE for 2019. At the premium end of the market, Greece is not just about sun, but also culture and a certain amount of cool. Number two after Italy in Kuoni’s Europe programme, Greece has seen vast luxury hotel investment and was a big winner at the Conde Nast Traveller Gardens by the Bay, Singapore Awards last year. Kuoni has expanded its programme with the introduction of the Sporades Islands and new hotels in Athens, Crete and Thessaloniki. Rhodes and Corfu are seeing an upturn, the latter WES TERN having benefitted greatly from ITV’s Sunday-evening hit, The Durrells. AUSTRALIA

A long flight is rarely the greatest of sells – but the first non-stop route from the UK to Australia? It’s almost a badge of honour. Qantas’ London- Amirandes, Grecotel Exclusive Resort, Crete Perth service which launched last year is giving Western Australia a well-deserved boost as both a destination in its own right as well as a great value stop over before heading on to the East Coast. The Ningaloo Reef is every LATIN AMERICA bit as impressive as the Great Barrier Reef, and Perth is a Mexico was the stand out success for Kuoni’s new sister company, good value gateway compared Journey Latin America in 2018, with new business doubling and the with Sydney. Sales are sell-out Frida Kahlo exhibition at the V&A driving interest. Kuoni continuing to grow and are up bookings to Latin America saw significant growth in 2018 too, with 18% for 2019, definitely one demand for tailor made itineraries group tours and stay and cruise to watch. fuelling a 41% growth into the region. Peru regains its number one spot with Ecuador fast on its tail with a 200% growth since 2017.

Perth, Australia

12 | THE KUONI WORLDWIDE TRAVEL REPORT THE KUONI WORLDWIDE TRAVEL REPORT | 13 12% SMALL GROUP TOURS increa se for cruise There is a 13% increase in escorted touring for 2019 with the top five selling holidays booked destinations being: 1. India, 2. Vietnam, by Kuoni 3. Sri Lanka, 4. Japan, 5. Kenya. last year

INDIA +6%

Listed at number eight in Kuoni’s top 10 destinations overall, there is an increasing trend for travel beyond the iconic Taj Mahal with interest in Kerala growing as people More than are seeking out Southern India’s slower pace 25 Rail and the popularity of shows such as The Real journeys in Exotic Marigold Hotel filmed in the region. 12 countries around the KENYA +17% world

East Africa is definitely growing in popularity TRAIN as customers seek out value for money with More than 25 Rail journeys in 12 countries Japan: By Shinkansen (bullet train) or light wildlife adventures combined with a tropical around the world can be booked with Kuoni rail, public transport in Japan is punctual beach stay, offering the best of both worlds. and there’s been a steady rise over the past to the second, offering an efficient way four years in itineraries featuring rail travel. to get around towns and cities giving you the opportunity to experience life like a Travel by rail is becoming increasingly popular local. These can be experienced on Kuoni’s THE FAR EAST +8% as a method of travel within a wider tailor- Essential Japan tour. made itinerary or as part of a small group tour. There has been particular growth in Japan India: Kuoni features several rail itineraries Some examples of where trains form a major (+16%) and Vietnam (+33%). Customers are in India including luxury trains such as the feature: increasingly seeking authentic experiences Maharajas’ Express and the Deccan Odyssey, Kenya: On Kuoni’s Kenya and Beach Safari which this region offers in abundance. as well as the more authentic local services, guests can travel on the new Madaraka O CE A N LINER which you can use to travel between the Best ways Express linking the Kenya coast with the Indian cities. Luxury rail travel in India was up capital travelling by some of Kenya’s most A 12% increase for cruise 15% last year and express rail was up 40%. famous national parks. holidays booked by Kuoni last SEAPLANE to see the year and many of these are customers trying a cruise Kuoni personal travel experts for the first time. From booked 7,130 return seaplane world Antarctica to Japan, personal transfers in the Maldives travel experts at Kuoni last year, with an increase regularly recommend cruise in the number of people BICYCLE ‘ With more than two million Brits cycling as one of the best ways to Getting around and seeing choosing a flight over a boat at least once a week, we’re not surprised see a destination. transfer (64% upgraded), Discovering a destination different perspectives is that suppliers are routinely catering for specifically because they want by bike is far easier than them, most typically with complimentary part of the fun – whether the experience. you think – and can be RIVER CRUISE rental bikes but also organised sightseeing by rail, ship, bike or more rewarding than travelling by bus or car. excursions. Last year I enjoyed an motorhome people are Four new river cruise lines MOTORHOME were added to Kuoni’s In the UK alone, cycling interesting cultural tour of Cochin in being more creative about collection last year reflecting From New Zealand to Canada, has overtaken golf as Kerala on a bike, which was a superb way how they explore and increasing demand. More trips in motorhomes were up the nation’s favourite to discover the sights hidden amongst the immerse themselves in their like boutique floating hotels 49% year on year. For 2019 sporting pastime, city’s narrow lanes and back alleys. And than ships, river cruising Kuoni’s partner THL in New following a worldwide surroundings. as a keen cyclist I loved picking up some allows you to fully immerse Zealand is currently trialling trend towards exotic Strava segments! ’ yourself in unique cultures a new electric motorhome two-wheeled travel. with the on-board dining and we now have more than Tom Waite, Product Manager - Discover and entertainment often 31 suggested itineraries reflecting the region that in Canada and the USA, you’re travelling through. showcasing the best routes.

14 | THE KUONI WORLDWIDE TRAVEL REPORT THE KUONI WORLDWIDE TRAVEL REPORT | 15 LIFELONG LEARNING The WORLD Almost 70% had been on at least one holiday as an adult where they had the opportunity TO P 10 to learn something new. And 60% said they HOLIDAY LEARNING had learnt something new on holiday as a EXPERIENCES ARE: Classroom child, with more than half believing that their childhood experience had improved their life 1. Conservation: eg coral as an adult. From sunrise yoga to literature reef planting, Whether learning to be a gladiator in Rome turtle rescue, safari festivals on cruise ships, Kuoni has to seeing hydrothermal activity first hand experience seen demand grow for people who want on the drive in volcano in Saint Lucia, for 2. Photography to blend their time away with learning parents today, selecting a holiday destination that allows their children the opportunity to 3. Cookery a new skill, improve an existing hobby learn a new skill or understand new cultures 4. Diving or snorkelling or take part in an experience to broaden is particularly important. The survey revealed 5. Watersports: eg 39% people said they choose destinations that their understanding of the world. kayaking, waterskiing, provide a learning opportunity and a further sailing For example in Sri Lanka, there has been a 12% increase year 29% said that although they do not currently on year for excursions with a learning theme. New research do this, they definitely would on future trips. 6. Mindfulness commissioned exclusively for Kuoni reveals 70% of people believe Being away from home with a sense of 7. Dancing their reasons for booking a holiday have changed over the years freedom is the main reason 38% said 8. Yoga with almost half (46%) saying this is due to a wider choice of that they did not feel embarrassed to exciting travel opportunities. A desire to experience and learn new try something new on holiday. The older 9. Tennis or other sports skills is increasingly becoming one of the motivations to travel with generation also feel less embarrassed when 10. Pilates 34% of those surveyed citing this as the reason for a change in their trying something new on holiday with only booking habits. 29% saying that this would be the case vs 44% amongst 18-24 year olds.

THE TRAVEL INDUSTRY’S RESPONSE TO A GROWING TREND FOR WORLDWIDE LEARNING EXPERIENCES IS BECOMING A NEWLY LAUNCHED WORLD CLASSROOM INSPIRATION SECTION HAS BEEN ADDED AT WWW.KUONI.CO.UK EVER MORE DIVERSE AND INVENTIVE.

FARMING MARINE BIOLOGY ASTRONOMY YOGA SINGING CHESS PETER DIVING PHOTOGRAPHY

As part of Kuoni’s Thailand The eco-centre at Kuramathi in From Orion to the Plough, From dedicated studios in the Workshops for a five-day There’s evidence that board Available for beginners and Following sell-out trips in Explorer tour you can really get the Maldives plays a vital role stargazing gatherings to Maldives to retreats in the expert-led “Caribbean Choir” in games are back with a 20% advanced divers, PETER diving previous years, we now have hands on and help out on an in enriching visits for guests observe the night sky’s Caribbean, there has been a September are selling out fast. increase in tabletop games at Faarufushi, Maldives, due two dedicated tours for 2019; organic rice farm, transplanting with a true experience of the constellations is on the up. rise in enquiries over the past Celebrity vocal coach Mike King sales. Reflecting a mood for to open 16th February is a the Images of Russia and Images rice seedlings, harvesting or Maldives. It’s designed to give The Canaries is one of the two years for customers who provides two-hour morning the “real thing” in gaming new kind of diving where the of Japan photography tours. milling rice and even ploughing information about marine life best areas in the world for wish to improve their yoga coaching classes at Pineapple a new chess academy, run air supply is filtered directly On these exclusive small group the paddies with water buffalo. through visual and microscopic stargazing and the quality of practice. Kuoni favourite, Beach Club, Antigua. by Russian World Champion from the surface. This is a great escorted tours, you’ll get the presentations. the sky is so clean and clear Galley Bay in Antigua has Anatolij Karpov will be sharing option for dive beginners who time to hone your photography that it is protected by law teamed up with Fat Buddha strategies for beginners and are looking to build confidence skills and capture famous Yoga founder Jessica Skye to experienced players at the under water. sights under the guidance and create a tropical retreat. Forte Village Resort, Sardinia. expertise of award-winning travel photographer, Neil Buchan-Grant.

16 | THE KUONI WORLDWIDE TRAVEL REPORT THE KUONI WORLDWIDE TRAVEL REPORT | 17 SMALL SCREEN WONDERS

Hotels with the wow factor are in demand, What’s primarily led by the Amazing Hotels series. Mashpi Lodge in influencing Ecuador featured in the first series of the BBC’s Amazing Hotels and put the spotlight T R AV EL on small, luxury lodge and treetop stays in stunning locations. Luxury hotel retreats are From heatwaves to moving towards natural materials, incorporating television programmes, authentic culture SPECIAL CELEBRATIONS and smart architectural here are a few of the planning to ensure Weddings and honeymoons have long been a Kuoni speciality, areas influencing low impact on the but any event could be an excuse for a special trip with group surroundings. bookings for landmark birthdays and anniversaries all on the our holiday choices up. Special occasion travel now makes up a third of all bookings. Destination weddings continue to grow with a 260% increase this year. year on year. Italy has moved into the top three wedding destinations for the first time in 2019.

MONEY MATTERS

WHATE VER Currency fluctuations always give us the jitters, but despite THE WEATHER the fall in sterling to around €1.1, the Euro was still the If there’s one conversation best selling currency in 2018, common to nearly every according to Post Office FEAR FACTOR travel conversation, it’s the Money*. US and Australian weather. While the British dollars were position two However Brexit plays out, heatwave of 2018 persuaded and three respectively there will always be turbulence many to holiday at home, (unchanged from 2017) but in travel. The Gatwick Airport extreme weather in Indonesia the surprise was the Turkish drone was the industry’s hit the headlines post the Lira: sales were up 368% unwanted Christmas present, FOOD SETTING THE AGENDA devastating tsunami. To after it fell 73% against the but scares like this remind help people navigate their SOCIAL TRAVEL pound. Travellers can insulate travellers of the benefits of Eating sets the agenda on holiday more than ever before; street way through hurricane themselves from prices on booking a package. food in Asia, vegetarian cuisine in India… every food trend is seasons, tropical humidity As much as some travellers want to switch off, others need to the ground by booking an an excuse to make a gastronomic pilgrimage somewhere in the ABTA found 30% of and dry climates around the turn on. Millennials use Instagram in the way their parents used all-inclusive holiday, but it world. Such is the demand for food experiences nearly all Kuoni’s holidaymakers spoke to a world Kuoni has teamed the Lonely Planet or Rough Guides. Honeymooners in particular is clear that a good deal on small group tours now include a local culinary element. From travel professional about their up with meteorologists at want that iconic backdrop. The prevalence of WiFi has also money can still cause learning to make Kimchi in a cookery class in South Korea to holiday in 2018, with 93% weathertrending. prompted a surge in solo travel – apps make navigating alone far a stampede. joining a local chef in Lima, Peru to explore the markets and pick saying they went on to book less daunting. Keeping in touch is easier too, as is meeting the ingredients to take back to a local restaurant, there’s a definite with that company. locals – swipe right for a holiday romance! move towards moments which bring to life the local flavours. Trusted brands are valued more than ever.

18 | THE KUONI WORLDWIDE TRAVEL REPORT THE KUONI WORLDWIDE TRAVEL REPORT | 19 CASE STUDY: JILL & MARNIE

Who we Bridging the generation gap: Jill Ugo, 75 and granddaughter, Marnie, 11 T R AV EL with

From grandparents travelling with grandchildren to husbands What inspired you to travel with your granddaughter? travelling with husbands, Timing and circumstances really. I’d been meaning the list of who we choose to go but was struggling to get around to just to travel with is evolving. booking. Autumn was the best time to travel and also my daughter’s busiest time at work, so the Boyfriends, girlfriends, three of us mooted the idea of Marnie joining me husbands, wives, fiancés, over dinner one night. The idea grew from there.

daughters, grandparents, Why India? friends, sons, aunts, I had always wanted to go and travelling with uncles… we’re mixing up Marnie gave me the motivation to do it. The autumn half term gave us both a deadline and a our travelling companions window to stick to! more than ever before. How did Kuoni help? Kuoni’s own research Gemma at Westfield was a real star. We had spoken to a few consultants previously but hadn’t shows that 20 years ago, got the right advice or personal feel from them. nearly all of our guests From the moment we sat down with Gemma and were couples. Two decades she explained she’d been to India the year before, we felt comfortable. She had great advice about on, while couples still the internal travel options and was really practical make up around 82% of about accommodation – suggesting when was bookings, today the mix best to splurge and where savings could be made as we’d hardly be in the hotel. She was quick is more varied – and the to respond to questions and would update the business is adapting to suit itinerary and price when we made changes or how people travel today. requested different ideas.

TOP FIVE TOURS FOR A LIFETIME OF FAMILIES OF ALL SHAPES LGB T JUST ME SOLOS 2018 TRAVEL AND SIZES HONEYMOONS

The rise of solo travel has been widely Kuoni’s own research shows 77% (42% yes 1. Temple, Tiger & Taj Trail Couples of all ages are core customers. Extended families with grandparents, single Since Kuoni introduced the travel industry’s reported over the past year and Kuoni’s own definitely, 35% possibly) would consider 2. Highlights of India - Taj Tour There’s no age limit on travel. The youngest parent families, families travelling together, first team of specialist LGBT travel experts, figures reveal a steady increase on people travelling alone to see somewhere new, 3. Classic South Africa customer to travel with Kuoni in 2018 was there has been a 7% rise in family bookings honeymoon bookings for same-sex couples choosing to travel by themselves or with a provided they were somewhere they felt safe 4. Wildlife of Borneo just three months old and the oldest couple for 2019. Large family groups to celebrate have risen year-on-year by 34% friend rather than a partner. and there were activities suited to them. 5. Highlights of Japan were aged 187 years combined. a special occasion is a growth area. The Top destinations are: Top choices are: Kuoni is planning a new programme for largest family group last year was for 12 1. Maldives, 2. Mauritius, 3. Thailand, 1. Small group tours for single travellers single travellers in 2019. people (to Turkey). 4. Indonesia, 5. Sri Lanka 2. Wellbeing Escapes 3. Beach breaks with health and activity programmes

20 | THE KUONI WORLDWIDE TRAVEL REPORT THE KUONI WORLDWIDE TRAVEL REPORT | 21 For many years the Kuoni brand has been synonymous with responsible travel and looking after places our customers love to visit; being actively engaged in supporting projects overseas with charities such as the Born Free Foundation to developing a responsible code of conduct for suppliers. Chobe Game Lodge, Botswana While responsible travel is not new, there has been a shift in public consciousness. People are more aware than ever of the pressures holidays place on the environment. From COSTA RICA GOES CARBON GIRL-POWER GOES UP A GEAR animal welfare to the use of disposable NEU T R A L IN BOTSWANA plastics, responsible travel has reached a tipping point. Undoubtedly one of the stars of the natural Botswana’s Chobe Game Lodge is determined Kuoni’s parent company DER Touristik has world, Costa Rica not only aims to be the first to do things differently. The lodge is too long been active in social responsibility carbon neutral nation in the world by 2021, large to derive all of its energy from the sun projects, having established the DER Touristik but also plans to ban single-use plastics by (currently it runs at 20%), but many of their Foundation in 2014. Through group-wide the same date. The Costa Rican government fleet of safari and river vehicles are fully fundraising efforts, recent successes is known for stepping up to the plate; it electric or solar powered. And as if cruising include four school building projects in the was the first Latin American country to ban the veldt in near silence was not unique Simanjiro district of Tanzania, as well as recreational hunting, and the travel industry enough, their all-female safari guiding team the construction of an education centre for has made its own contribution with a rating gives women a chance to excel in what has Maasai women. Goals for this year include system for sustainability. The five-leaf rating traditionally been a man’s game. Gandys setting up a vocational training centre for is the gold standard in eco lodging: secondary-age pupils, putting an emphasis on www.kuoni.co.uk/costa-rica/why-costa- SEYCHELLES SAYS GOODBYE self sufficiency. rica-is-unique. TO STYROFOAM There’s plenty of good news elsewhere – here are some encouraging projects in the JEWELLERY SHINES IN KENYA Nowhere is single-use plastic more of a places we love. risk than the Indian Ocean. Local recycling Looking after the East Africa has some of the longest standing facilities cannot deal with the influx of straws eco- projects. In 1975, the Kazuri KUONI AND GANDYS GIVE and disposable packaging, so island nations project started with two single mothers are stepping up their efforts to cut waste. BACK TO SRI LANKA places WE LOVE experimenting with decorative beads. In The Seychelles banned the importation of common with many other women in the Styrofoam takeaway boxes in 2017 as well Kuoni has teamed up with lifestyle brand villages around Nairobi, their traditional as disposable cutlery, cups and plastic bags. Gandys for an extraordinary journey through skills helped create a cottage industry in This year they followed up this year with a Sri Lanka. Gandys founders Rob and Paul hand-crafted jewellery. Kuoni features the ban on single-use plastic straws. Forkan were just teenagers when they lost For travel companies, talking project as part of the Leopard Safari: their parents to the 2004 tsunami. They were www.kuoni.co.uk/kenya/safaris/leopard- travelling together when disaster struck, but about responsible travel safari EDIBLE STRAWS REPLACE the experience led them to set up a charity, PLASTIC IN THE MALDIVES is no longer an option: you have Orphans for Orphans. Gandys allocates Kenya has also been a leader in renewable energy. Solar is the main power provider at 10% of its profits to helping fellow orphans Plastic straws are on their way out across the Tawi Game Lodge in Amboseli National to do something that makes worldwide and in 2019, Kuoni gets on board many of the Maldivian islands, to be replaced Park and the Kilaguni Serena Lodge in Tsavo with a new independent car and driver tour with paper ones or even, as on Velassaru, an a difference West has recently gone fully solar. It features of the island. For every trip sold, £50 goes to edible version. Made from sugar and corn on Kuoni’s new Beach & Safari Journeys at Orphans for Orphans. starch, the gluten free straws can withstand an www.kuoni.co.uk/kenya/safaris/kenya- See www.kuoni.co.uk/sri-lanka/tours/ hour submerged in liquid, enough time beach-and-safari gandys-tour for anyone to drink a cocktail. Velassaru has For more information see: www.kuoni. also built a recycling plant for plastic and co.uk/responsible-travel/eco-holidays glass, and a botanical chipper can mulch kitchen waste into compost for the island’s vegetable plots.

22 | THE KUONI WORLDWIDE TRAVEL REPORT THE KUONI WORLDWIDE TRAVEL REPORT | 23 Rachel O’Reilly Head of Communications +44 (0) 1306 744194 [email protected]

Jemma Purvis Public Relations Manager On maternity leave

Sarah Jackson Senior Public Relations Executive +44 (0) 1306 744006 [email protected]

Alissa Kirkwood Public Relations Assistant +44 (0) 1306 744731 [email protected]