As payday arrives and the January booking frenzy reaches its peak, many Britons are eagerly searching for their next getaway. One of TUI's seasoned travel agents has disclosed where savvy holidaymakers are snapping up the most attractive bargains.
Expert Advice on Securing Value Holidays
Abbie Watkinson, based at TUI's Newcastle Metro Centre store, has assisted thousands of customers in securing excellent value deals. She explains, 'January is our busiest booking time of the year, and for good reason. January sales are well and truly under way, so it's a great time for holidaymakers to secure fantastic deals.'
The key to obtaining the best holiday value lies in booking early in the year. 'Not only do you get first pick of the best hotels and dates, but you can take advantage of sale prices and pay the rest when it suits you. It's a no-brainer in my eyes, especially on payday and with low deposits,' Abbie adds.
Top Destinations for January Bookings
Here are the destinations that are dominating Abbie's bookings this January, offering a mix of luxury, paradise, and reliable sunshine.
Turkey for All-Inclusive Luxury
In Abbie's view, Turkey remains the top choice for families and couples seeking five-star experiences without the premium price tag. With stunning Mediterranean and Aegean coastlines, along with exceptional all-inclusive packages, it's no surprise her customers consistently turn to Turkey for good bargains.
Average temperatures hit 25 degrees in May and stay high all the way to September, when it's still around 30 degrees. Abbie notes, 'Lots of the resorts out there have family-friendly facilities and kids' clubs – my personal top pick would be the Platinum Rixos Sungate. You get free access to the Land of Legends theme park and it's also got its own waterpark with 13 flumes! There are also 13 bars in the hotel…. so everyone in the family will be happy.'
For couples after relaxation, Abbie suggests the TUI BLUE Angora Beach in Izmir. 'It's an adults-only hotel that has a small boutique feeling to it. It's also only a short drive to Ephesus, which is an incredible day trip for history buffs,' she adds.
Greece for an Island Paradise
From iconic white-washed villages to family-friendly beaches, Abbie says Greece offers something for every type of traveller. 'Stunning scenery, warm hospitality, delicious food, and competitive pricing makes it a personal favourite of mine. Whether you're up for some island hopping or prefer to lay by the pool, Greece ticks a lot of boxes… I can almost smell the gyros just thinking about it!'
For the best value, she recommends spots like Zante, Kos, and Skiathos – they're less crowded than destinations like Santorini and Mykonos, and a pint will only set you back around £4. 'The cheaper price tag makes it a win-win!' Abbie exclaims.
All of the islands are breathtaking, but personally, she loves Kefalonia the most. 'You get the kind of turquoise and white scenery you'd usually associate with the Caribbean, but without the long-haul price tag!'
Spain for Reliable Sunshine
Whether it's the Balearics, Canaries, or the Costa del Sol, Spain is a go-to choice for excellent weather and value, with average temperatures around 27 degrees in July. Abbie says, 'It's got short flight times of just a couple of hours, diverse resort options, and everything from lively nightlife to peaceful retreats. There really is a Spanish getaway to suit every budget and preference.'
She personally adores the Canaries for their year-round sunshine, great hotel options, and plenty of experiences. Tenerife would be her pick for families – Villa Mandi in Playa de las Americas has its own TUI Kids' Club and is also really close to attractions like Siam Park. For couples, she'd turn to Lanzarote where you can find stylish resorts with a romantic vibe.
Final Tips from the Expert
Abbie concludes with a crucial reminder: 'I always tell customers; don't wait. January sale prices combined with payday timing means you can secure incredible value and have your dream holiday sorted before February even arrives. These deals won't last forever, so it's definitely the best move to lock in your holidays asap.'
