With the start of the winter flight schedule in November 2024, Ruefa, one of Austria's leading tour operators, is fulfilling the wish of many Austrians to escape the cold season.
This winter, warm destinations that guarantee sun and relaxation are particularly popular - be it on the paradisiacal beaches of the Maldives, the Canary Islands or the exotic Dominican Republic. This winter, Ruefa is offering a diverse range of long-haul and medium-haul destinations, which include not only classic favorites, but also new, up-and-coming destinations.
Winter time means long-distance travel time
While many Europeans prefer the Mediterranean coasts in summer, winter remains traditionally the high season for long-distance travel. The Christmas holidays in particular offer the perfect opportunity to escape the cold and travel to distant countries that promise warmth and relaxation.
According to Birgit Wallner, Managing Director of Ruefa, the Maldives and Thailand are once again very popular this season: "We continue to see strong demand for the Maldives and Thailand. Both destinations are at the top of the long-haul travel rankings." Thailand attracts visitors with its diverse holiday options, from the vibrant metropolises such as Bangkok to the beautiful beaches of Phuket to the quieter regions such as Khao Lak and Koh Samui.
Mauritius, another classic winter travel destination, is also enjoying great popularity. The expansion of flight connections to Bangkok and the Maldives offers travelers more flexibility, which further increases the attractiveness of these destinations.
New trends in long-distance travel
In addition to the traditional long-haul destinations, new trends are also emerging. Tanzania, with the Zanzibar archipelago in particular, is becoming increasingly popular with travelers. "Tanzania is perfect for travelers who want to combine tours with fascinating natural discoveries and animal safaris. We are offering many new options this winter, such as relaxing beach stays on Zanzibar," adds Wallner. The combination of adventure and relaxation makes this destination an attractive new addition to the Ruefa portfolio.
The Dominican Republic, which has been a popular holiday destination for years, is also seeing an increase in booking numbers. The combination of dream beaches, cultural experiences and an extensive range of all-inclusive resorts makes the country particularly attractive to travellers. South Africa, Barbados and the Seychelles are also among the destinations that are gaining popularity again. South Africa in particular offers an attractive mix of natural beauty, exciting safaris and a rich culture.
Ruefa's top long-distance destinations for winter 2024/2025
According to the Ruefa ranking, the Maldives, Thailand and Mauritius are at the top of the long-haul destinations for winter 2024/2025. The Dominican Republic follows in fourth place, while the USA - especially the cities of New York and Florida - are also among the favorites. The USA offers not only urban adventures, but also a variety of nature experiences, from the beaches of Florida to the impressive national parks in the west of the country.
Sunny middle-haul flights remain popular
A clear picture also emerges on the medium-haul routes: The Canary Islands, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates (particularly Dubai) dominate the rankings. The Canary Islands, which are characterized by a pleasant climate and a unique landscape, remain the most popular choice for many Austrians. Fuerteventura and Lanzarote are particularly popular, and the diverse offerings on the islands offer both beach vacationers and active tourists a lot of variety.
Egypt, which offers not only sun but also culture and history, is also high on the list. The coastal towns of Hurghada and Marsa Alam are ideal destinations, especially for diving enthusiasts. Dubai, which attracts with its luxurious resorts, shopping opportunities and modern attractions, remains another top destination on the medium-haul route.
An interesting new feature in the winter flight schedule is the return of direct flights from Vienna to the Cape Verde Islands. This exotic group of islands off the west coast of Africa, especially the island of Sal, is experiencing a boom and is increasingly becoming an insider tip for winter holidaymakers looking for sun and relaxation.
Emerging goals and other trends
In addition to the tried and tested sunny destinations in the long-haul and medium-haul sectors, there is also a growing interest in Asian destinations. Countries such as Vietnam, Japan and Singapore are increasingly attracting the attention of travellers who want to experience exotic cultures, breathtaking landscapes and culinary diversity.
Cruises also remain a strong trend. Many holidaymakers choose to cruise through the Caribbean, along the Canary Islands or even along the coasts of South America. This form of travel offers a combination of comfort and the opportunity to discover different countries and regions in a short period of time.