DESPITE the downturn, many Singaporeans are being lured out of town this Labour Day, which falls on Friday, because of falling prices.
The cost of travel has fallen by up to 30 per cent, said industry sources. Airlines have slashed prices by as much as 25 per cent and hotels are charging lower rates.
Tour agencies said they have seen a spike in bookings for trips compared with last year, especially to Europe, the US and Central Asia.
CTC Holidays has seen a 40 per cent hike in demand for trips next month to China, especially Sichuan, Tibet and Silk Road packages, said Ms Alicia Seah, its senior vice-president of marketing and public relations.
Over at Super Travels', the number of people who have booked US packages has risen by 110.
The three-day Labour Day weekend is also a boon for time-strapped folks. Demand for trips to nearby destinations such as Indonesia, Hong Kong and Taiwan has climbed by 12 per cent, said Ms Ruth Lim, SA Tours' manager of marketing and communications.
But long-time favourite Thailand is losing out, she noted.
Tour agencies expect that Singaporeans will continue to take time out abroad despite the recession.
