ANWBHalf of Dutch people plan to go on holiday this May. This is a significant increase compared to last year, when one in three indicated that they would book a holiday during that period. The high prices for a holiday play an increasing role in the plans. This is evident from research by the ANWB.
The most popular destination, just like last year, is our own country, according to the tourist association. Two in five holidaymakers stay in the Netherlands. The research does show that Dutch people go on holiday for a slightly shorter period: last year most people went away for a week, now it is a midweek.
The high costs play a role in this. Half of those who go on holiday in their own country say that prices influence their plans, compared to 40 percent last year. But the Netherlands is also suitable for a shorter holiday such as the May holiday, and has plenty to offer within its borders, according to the ANWB: forests, heaths, the coast or cities and historic villages. That is also why a holiday in your own country remains popular.
“We see that Dutch people are ready for a holiday,” says ANWB spokesperson Sanne Over. “The number of people who go on holiday during the May holidays has increased considerably, and they traditionally do so in their own country. What we also see is that higher costs are being taken into account: how can I go on holiday while the price remains somewhat manageable? This is by taking shorter holidays, booking fewer paid outings and eating out less often.”
The ANWB bases its research on the holiday period from April 27 to May 12. The official school holiday lasts until May 4, but schools can add another week.
Spain is popular as a holiday destination
About half of those who book holidays during this period choose a European destination. One in five of these goes to Spain. That country is more in demand than last year, says Over. “Prices may also play a role in this. These are lower during the May holidays than in the high season. And the temperatures during this period are not as high as during the summer holidays. Eight percent of respondents go on holiday outside Europe.
Most popular countries for May holidays within Europe
1. Spain, 21 percent
2. Germany, 16 percent
3. France, 16 percent
4. Italy, 9 percent
5. Belgium, 6 percent
Within the Netherlands, Limburg, Drenthe and Gelderland are the most booked destinations. At least half of holidaymakers plan to cycle – one in three takes their own bicycle on holiday, and almost a quarter rent a bicycle locally.
50 euros per person per day
The ANWB also investigated how much people spent during their May holiday. A quarter spend less than in previous years. The majority of respondents say they spend around 50 euros per person per day on activities, food and drinks. Almost half spend a maximum of that amount for a stay at a campsite or in a house.
The tourist association examines the holiday plans of Dutch people several times a year. The ANWB cannot yet say whether the increased popularity of the May holiday will influence the number of holidaymakers in the summer. “But we do expect that the summer will certainly remain popular.”
Those interviewed who are not going on holiday say they have other activities planned. Outings such as a zoo, a museum or amusement park are mentioned, or a day of walking or cycling in nature. Two in five take advantage of a discount promotion with these plans.
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