As many people head back to school or the office, it's the turn of the septembrists to pack their bags. Nearly one in five holidaymakers now choose to go away outside the school holidays, and the trend is growing all the time. For them, September means extended summer... at lower prices.
Who are they?
- Mainly couples without children, who account for more than 75 % of reservations.
- Families are still bound by the school calendar.
How long will they be gone?
- A week remains the preferred format (50 % of stays).
- Long stays of 10 to 14 nights attract 19 % of travellers.
- Short breaks of 3 to 5 nights attract 12 %.
Clubs and packages
The formula all inclusive in a club is still the star (6 out of 10 bookings). Some examples speak for themselves:
- Marrakech from €558 in September, compared with €1,159 in August.
- Grenada to €640, instead of €1,371.
Tours and combined tours are also gaining ground.
Top destinations
- Spain 21 % (Malaga in the lead).
- Greece 17 % (including 13 % in Crete).
- Morocco 13 % (mainly Marrakech and Agadir).
Then there are the exotic destinations of Mauritius, Bali, Zanzibar and Mexico.
Smart budgeting
In September, prices are on average 20 to 30 cheaper % than in July and August, sometimes with discounts of up to -50 %.
Where do they come from?
Paris still accounts for a third of departures, but regional airports such as Nantes and Lyon are making rapid progress.
Source : Jet Tours
Photo opening : Marrakech. Club Coralia Valeria Dar Atlas.
