Autumn Break: a renewed influx of the French to the South in 2023

IN BRIEF

  • Increase of 3.5% in bookings for the All Saints’ Day holidays 2024 compared to 2023.
  • Destinations in the South of France and Europe are particularly popular.
  • Coastal departments such as Hérault (+16.8%), Alpes-Maritimes (+15.3%), and Var (+12.1%) are experiencing a significant rise in bookings.
  • The weather plays a crucial role, with an increased search for sunshine.
  • Foreign destinations are gaining popularity, notably Spain (+21%) and Portugal (+12.4%).
  • A significant decline in interest for destinations like Normandy.

The All Saints’ Day holidays 2023 mark a turning point for French tourism, with a clear increase in departures to the South. This traditionally popular holiday period sees the French prioritizing destinations with sunny climates, both in the hexagon and on the European continent. The growing enthusiasm for the South highlights a clear trend: despite inflation, vacationers are looking to maximize their summer experience by enjoying the mild climate of the South during this period.

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A notable increase in bookings #

Booking trends reveal a significant rise: compared to the previous year, the number of accommodations reserved for the All Saints’ Day holidays has increased by 3.5%. This trend has been highlighted by a detailed study showing that the French are seeking more affordable accommodation options during this period, making South destinations particularly attractive. The analysis emphasizes that the price differences between the summer season and the All Saints’ Day period are remarkable, with gaps that can reach surprising levels.

The South, a preferred destination #

The quest for warmth and sunshine leads to coastal departments that show remarkable increases in bookings. Regions such as Hérault (+16.8%), Alpes-Maritimes (+15.3%), and Var (+12.1%) provide evidence of this. These territories, attractive with their beaches and mild climate, are emerging as ideal destinations for families and couples seeking a change of scenery during this week of vacation.

Destination choices influenced by weather conditions #

After a rather rainy summer in 2023, the French are turning to the South to maximize their chances of enjoying sunny weather. Indeed, the dominance of the weather in destination choices is a growing trend, with many vacationers striving to select places offering more favorable climatic conditions. This desire to escape to pleasant skies seems increasingly motivated by the memories of an indecisive and rainy summer.

An inverse trend for Northern destinations #

On the other hand, regions like Normandy are experiencing a significant setback, with a marked decrease in bookings. Calvados, for example, has seen a dramatic drop of 21.7% in bookings compared to last year. This trend also extends to other regions such as Charente-Maritime (-8.9%) and Loire-Atlantique (-5.1%), where uncertain weather seems to deter vacationers.

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International getaways to the sun #

International destinations are also gaining momentum this year, reflecting an insatiable thirst for light and warmth. Spain and Portugal are at the top of the list, with increases in bookings of 21% and 12.4%, respectively. These countries attract not only for their sunny climate but also for their friendly atmospheres and picturesque landscapes that are increasingly appealing to the French.

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