Booking trends: 2022, the year of all records for the French?

Paris, 12 January 2022 – With the end-of-year celebrations just over, travelers seem to have already made certain resolutions for the new year 2022. After back-to-back waves of COVID-19’s that have swept through the tourism industry, Europeans are determined to get even while travelling close to home. According to Belvilla by OYO, the specialist in holiday home rentals, the booking trends for 2022 look promising compared to the beginning of 2021 at the same time.

FRANCE, A COUNTRY THAT ATTRACTS MANY AT THE BEGINNING OF THE YEAR

In this winter period, France is experiencing a 100% increase in bookings in the January-February period of 2022 compared to the previous year. This can be explained in particular by the strong increase in the number of Dutch people (+800%) in France, followed by Belgians (+300%) and Germans (56%). The French are not far behind with +48%. The two most popular destinations at the beginning of the year are the Northern Alps and the Grand Est region with Alsace, the Vosges and Champagne-Ardenne.

Chalet with terrace in Tignes near the ski slopes

Chalet with terrace in Vallandry

A DESIRE TO TRAVEL THAT IS NO LONGER IN EVIDENCE

The majority of French people book their holidays in France but, according to Belvilla’s figures, more and more of them are looking abroad compared to 2021. At the beginning of the year, Germany and its wide open spaces covered in snow seem to attract French travelers (+250%). When the good weather arrives, Italy will be in the lead with an increase in French bookings of +300% for the spring period and +230% in summer. For the low season, the French will take advantage of the mild climate in Spain to try to extend the summer.

Provençal holiday home in Montpezat

HOLIDAY HOMES, A TREND STILL IN VOGUE

The number of bookings in France for this summer is up by 12% compared to the same time last year. This clearly demonstrates the desire of Europeans to plan their holidays in advance and, above all, to favour a holiday home over a traditional hotel room. Ideal for families, couples and groups of friends who want to enjoy a comfortable and safe stay, holiday homes are a trend that is continuing this year.