About the market:

Despite a series of devastating terrorist attacks, natural disasters and health scares since 2000, the outbound market has continued to grow, to the extent that it has overtaken domestic travel, showing the resilience and resolve of the British tourist. Between 2000 and 2005 the outbound market increased by an estimated 22.0% to 44.8 million trips, whilst the domestic market has actually fallen by 7.5% to an estimated 41 million trips.

The rate of outbound growth did slow down following 9/11 and in real terms expenditure did decline marginally in 2002, before returning to growth the following year. The main market growth has been achieved through the independent sector, which now holds a superior market share to that of the more sluggish package market, while the catalyst thas been the proliferation of low-cost airlines and increased Internet usage.

In terms of socio-economic groups, it appears that those from the higher ABC1 – and to an extent the C2 – segments are less likely to allow catastrophes to affect their holidays. These people declare that they will not be put off travelling by terrorism and they also feel that it is important to support stricken areas. However, the ageing profile of the UK population is not necessarily an advantage for destinations that are affected by disasters, as it is the older respondents in Mintel’s survey who appear to be most prone to altering their holiday decisions.