The explosion of consumer prices will not get the better of the French summer holidays. After booking records during the last Ascension weekend, the summer holidays promise to be just as busy for tourism professionals. An upsurge in departure intentions is already being felt for the summer of 2022. Which destinations will holidaymakers favor this year? Will they take advantage of the lifting of health restrictions to go abroad?
Despite the strong recovery in air traffic abroad and a reduction in health measures in the majority of major European destinations, most French people (73% according to Protourisme) have already chosen the coasts of France. On the holiday program for July and August, sun and beach.
According to a study published this Thursday, June 2 by PAP Vacances, it is the Côte d’Azur which has recorded the highest increase in requests for reservations for holiday accommodation. It shows 30.6% between 2019 (pre-Covid period) and 2022. In second position Corsica (20.3%), followed by Languedoc (7.5%). “Holidaymakers are ready to cross all of France to get some sunshine, even if it means making an additional financial effort. Last year, many suffered from a gloomy summer”, observes Lætitia Caron, general manager of PAP.fr.
Fréjus and Hyères (Var) are the two most popular cities, reports Le Figaro. “These are two cities that are easily accessible by train or plane, where you don’t necessarily need a car to get there,” explains Lætitia Caron.
On the other hand, due to bad weather last year, reservations in Brittany and Vendée are in free fall.
Vaucluse, Ardèche and Drôme occupy the top 5 of the most requested departments, according to the study. “These are cheaper offers, with qualities equivalent to those of the coast in terms of guaranteed sunshine and activities. They also respond to a desire for authenticity”, notes the director of PAP.fr.
Spain and Greece also delight holidaymakers. Which rentals do they prefer?
The need for greenery and space is felt. The French have thus largely anticipated their summer vacation rental, to be sure of having a comfortable property. Renting a house remains their first choice. This year, booking requests for this type of property jumped 14.8% compared to 2019, notes PAP Vacances. Apartments fell by 16% over the same period.
To have the house of their dream, where it is possible to meet up with family or friends, many of them have to review their budget. How much are they spending, exactly?
If, according to an Ifop study carried out for Interhome France, one of the holiday rental specialists, 56% of French people are planning an identical budget to last year, 18% are ready to spend more. Because the price of vacation rentals has risen by 7.3% for houses between 2012 and 2022 and 5.2% for apartments over the same period. “Despite this increase, demand follows, because the summer holidays are too important for the French”, assures Lætitia Caron. It takes on average more than 2000 euros per week for a house on the Côte d’Azur, or nearly 1900 euros in the Vaucluse.