London,
30
November
2018
|
11:50
Europe/Amsterdam

GALICIA SHORTLISTED IN ABTA TRAVEL TRENDS DESTINATION REPORT 2019

On Monday 26 November 2018, the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) released its annual Travel Trends report which includes a list of 12 destinations tipped for tourism growth in the coming year. The destinations were selected based on new flight routes, major events and celebrations, and areas already experiencing a revival. Spain’s northern province of Galicia was included in the shortlist meaning that 2019 should prove to be an exciting year for the region.

According to the report, which is based on market information and consumer insights, 46% of travellers are likely to visit a country they have never been to before, and 53% are likely to visit a completely new resort or city in 2019. The findings also highlighted a focus on responsible tourism and the importance of a trusted travel expert. The increase in awareness of holidaymakers attitudes towards sustainability and ecotourism were underlined in key statistics. For example, over a third (36%) of people would opt for one tour operator over another if it has a track record of following strong environmental practices, representing an increase of 13% since 2014 (23%).

Galicia’s inclusion comes as no surprise to those who have been fortunate enough to visit Spain’s own Celtic land. Famed for its great seafood, dramatic coastlines and holy cities, the northern Spanish region possesses a uniqueness that is unrivalled across Europe. In the report, ABTA describes how the coastline is shaped by inlets known as “rias” while the mainland is made up of historic cities that are all worth a visit. The capital is Santiago de Compostela which holds the world famous cathedral, home to the shrine of St. James and finish line of one of the world’s most famous pilgrimages, the Camino de Santiago.

ABTA’s recommendation to British travellers also includes La Coruña, a city located on the Galician coast and home to a 2000-year old Roman lighthouse, named Hercules Tower. The city is a perfect spot to enjoy some of the region’s delicacies such as Pulpo (Octopus) or Percebes, a barnacle like seafood dish. These can be paired with Galicia’s famously high quality wine, particularly whites such as Albarino and Ribeiro.

Victoria Bacon, ABTA director of brand and business development, said “This year’s 12 destinations to watch showcase the diversity available to UK holidaymakers, including a range of vibrant cities, rich cultures, incredible countryside and stunning beaches,” all of which Galicia offers. The report hopes to “provide some inspiration for customers when choosing their breaks in 2019.”

The ABTA Travel Trends report looks to further inform British travellers on where and how they spend their precious holiday time in what will prove to be a big year for Galicia.

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For more information on the ABTA Travel Trends report 2019, please visit www.abta.com

For more information on Galicia as a visitor destination, please visit www.turismo.gal

For further information on Spain as a visitor destination, please visit www.spain.info or email Spain@wearelotus.co.uk.