In a difficult year we're delighted to report a big lift in traffic to our main websites - we're 15% up!
July is traditionally the second busiest month in the year as holidaymakers rush for last minute deals for summer so it's an important bellwether. Such a big lift is very, very welcome news.
Discount frenzy
We always knew 2012 would be a tricky year with consumers under real pressure to save money and wider economic confidence sagging under the Eurozone's problems. The inevitable result was holidaymakers leaving it later to book.
The good news is they still want to book - at the right price.
Traffic to España Breaks and Lanzarote Breaks has risen very strongly and our special offers pages have moved into top spot as the main landing pages.
We know constant requests for discounts can be difficult for owners but the best bet is to expect it. Consumers are programmed to ask for money off headline rates so it's wise to prepare for this when dealing with enquiries. Budget for it and plan ahead - it isn't an insult! Just a sign of the times.
More good news
We loved a report by Post Office Travel Money giving self-catering holidays in Spain a ringing endorsement for value. We were even happier to see these figures picked up in the national press this week, raising awareness of the excellent value we offer, to a wider audience.
Our own activity is also paying dividends.
The new Hot Bits section has been a big success, bringing some welcome zip to every destination we spotlight. We also revamped our main newsletter around this new content then cleaned up the subscriber list.
It has turned out to be very worthwhile: We're seeing much bigger traffic spikes (and very low bounce rates) from 38,000 happy subscribers.
Despite what the newspapers may say, there's still plenty of business out there. It just takes more agility and attention to detail to grab it.
Happy renting!
