SAVVY families are taking advantage of kids going back to school later in January by booking a cheeky New Year getaway.
With the new term for many starting on January 8, one travel agent has seen a 101 per cent rise in family bookings compared to last year.
The Canaries, Turkey, Spain and Portugal are the favourite destinations, On The Beach said.
The travel firm said: “Departures in January’s first week are up 49 per cent year on year as families look to take advantage of children going back to the classroom on January 8 – much later than in most previous years.
“And it’s family bookings that are the most popular with a 101 per cent increase compared to the same week in 2023, as parents look to whisk their children off to start 2024 on the right note.
Chief customer officer Zoe Harris said: “There’s a brief window of winter sun and fun for families wanting to escape the first chunk of the dreariest month of the year.”
“It’s the first time in six years that kids have gone back to school so late.
“The last time was in 2018, so what better excuse than to leave the freezing cold behind and get the new year off to the best start possible.
“Our bookings in the first week, and especially on January 1, are continuing to rise as parents grasp the opportunity to escape the UK.
“What better way to boost your January mood after taking the Christmas tree down than packing a case and scarpering off somewhere sunny.”
