According to Excite Holidays, Australian travellers are looking for more authentic experiences. In particular, countries in the Eastern Mediterranean are growing in popularity.

(TRAVPR.COM) AUSTRALIA - August 13th, 2013 - According to Excite Holidays, Australian travellers are looking for more authentic experiences. In particular, countries in the Eastern Mediterranean are growing in popularity.

Compared to the same period in 2012, the last six months has seen an increase in the number of paid bookings to Turkey (71%), Croatia (51%), Cyprus (19%), Egypt (171%) and Jordan (30%).

In addition, Excite Holidays has recorded a dramatic increase in the number of paid bookings to Morocco and Malta, with a growth of 205% and 328% respectively.

Joe Karbo, General Manager of Excite Holidays said: “We are seeing a trend for holidays that allow travellers to immerse themselves in a country’s culture and engage in authentic local interactions and local experiences.”

“Malta is one such example. Although small, Malta offers a vast and rich history that goes back to the Neolithic era. The country boasts some of the world’s greatest prehistoric temples, fossil-studded cliffs, hidden coves and exceptional diving opportunities,” continued Mr Karbo.

Furthermore, Malta’s uniform use of English and low-cost travel options makes it an attractive option for many Australians. 

The ability for travellers to experience an authentic trip, ranging from the traditional character of the villages to restaurants offering local produce all combine to account for the increased number of bookings and night stays to Malta.

Excite Holidays has also reported an increase in the number of paid bookings to Italy (29%), France (59%), Spain (48%), Portugal (30%) and Greece (29%). These figures indicate that Europe still remain high on the list of places Australians want to travel to.

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