Excite Holidays has recorded a growth in international bookings to Europe and North America in the second quarter of 2013, compared to the same time last year.

(TRAVPR.COM) AUSTRALIA - October 1st, 2013 - According to the latest analysis of data from Excite Holidays, there has been a growth in international bookings to Europe and North America in the second quarter of 2013, compared to the same time last year.

Excite Holidays has seen a 61% increase in accommodation bookings to Europe, while bookings to North America also increased by 22%. In particular, London and Paris still remain popular among Australian travellers, with bookings increasing by 80% and 42% respectively. In addition, Excite Holidays saw an increase of 50% for bookings to Las Vegas and San Francisco (13%).

According to George Papaioannou, CEO of Excite Holidays, “An increasing number of Australians are also flocking to Hawaii for a holiday. Surprisingly, we have noticed that they are venturing beyond the old favourites of Honolulu and Waikiki and exploring other islands. For example, we have seen an increase in bookings for Maui by approximately 96% in the second quarter of 2013, compared to the previous year.”

“The great airfares, the dramatic Maui beaches and the chance to catch a sunrise or sunset on the dormat volcano, Haleakala can be very appealing for many Australian travellers,” continued Mr Papaioannou.

Data from Excite Holidays also found that Australian travellers were booking further in advance of departure. Compared to last year, Excite Holidays saw an increase of 30% for bookings made up to 2 months in advance. Bookings made up to 3 months in advanced increased by 6%, while bookings made up to 4 months in advance increased by approximately 39%. This longer booking window is indicative of travellers looking to find better deals, have access to a greater selection and more availability of hotels when planning well in advance of their travel date. However, Excite Holidays notes that last minute bookings are still being made, with hotel bookings made less than 1 week of departure increasing by 14%.

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