‘For next summer we have seen a 38% increase in packages sold,’ says the destination’s regional minister for tourism, María Lorenzo.
‘I think security concerns are the main reason for this increase in advanced bookings, because they [British holidaymakers] are not sure about travelling to other destinations. The #CanaryIslands are safe, and a #destination they trust.’
The UK is the number one market for the Canaries, representing more than 30% of total arrivals to the six islands the destination comprises. Tenerife remains the favourite island for the Brits, followed by Lanzarote, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, La Palma, and El Hierro.
‘The UK market is extremely important to us and it’s still growing,’ said Ms Lorenzo. ‘From January to September this year more than three million British tourists visited the island, an increase of 3.3% compared to the same period last year (January to September 2014).’
The strong value of sterling versus the euro, the Canaries’ year-round warm climate, and its diverse offering were key factors driving more Brits to the destination. As a result, she said, the repeat business rate from the UK was 84%.
Ms Lorenzo said her job was to build on this momentum by lobbying for improved air connectivity from the UK to the Canaries, with a focus on flights from the North and South-West England. ‘We also need to renovate hotels, provide modern infrastructure, and invest in the islands to ensure they remain attractive.’
The Canary Islands have launched a website – hellocanaryislands.com – which features more than 2,600 photographs, videos, and other resources highlighting the islands’ attractions.
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