In part one TTFN Travel reviewed the travel data from its 2013 holiday makers for Europe, Africa and Asia to examine the average length of holiday by destination and the average amount of days the holidays were booked prior to departure.
In part two we examine holidays to the USA & Canada, holidays to South America and Holidays in Australia.
Holidays to USA and Canada
Holidays to USA and Canada averaged 16 days and were booked about 71 days in advance. Given the distance to travel it is somewhat surprising that the duration is not longer and closer to that of a trip to Europe. Reasons for this may include perhaps the perception that there is not as much to experience in the USA or Canada (ie because there are not as many countries to visit) or the fact that their culture is more similar to ours in Australia. Either way, the vastness of the North American continent makes for a great travel destination that requires repeat visits to really absorb all that is on offer.
Holidays to South America
Very few holidays to South America were actually booked by TTFN Travel in 2013 which is not too surprising given that Australians are still fairly cautious about it although they have no need to be. Another reason is that many people may have been waiting for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. The average holiday to South America was 31 days. This is a reasonable length of time for a visit however the continent is so vast that we recommend not trying to see it all in one go (unless you have 3 – 6 months to spare!) A better choice would be to choose one or two countries and spend some time in them. For first timers who want to holiday to South America we would definitely recommend choosing Argentina or Chile as they are the most westernised and have a plethora of amazing things to do and see.
Holidays in Australia
Holidays in Australia were the shortest with an average holiday duration of 6 days and were booked only 39 days in advance indicating that they really were much more of a last minute decision than a holiday to Europe.
Article by Nicola Billens