In the first full year unaffected by Covid since 2019, Explore will not only return to pre-pandemic levels but greatly exceed them.
“We knew 2023 was going to be a big year for Explore with a lot of pent up demand,” says Managing Director Michael Edwards. “We also know that being the operator people could trust throughout the pandemic has stood us in good stead. With the world now fully opened up, and an enhanced appreciation for freedom and travel, there really is no better time to seize the day and book that once in a lifetime trip.”
The greatest gains have been in Explore’s walking trips, up 41% in 2019 and European tours, up a huge 67% in 2019. The three fastest-growing trips of the year so far have been Cycle the Dalmatian Coast, Simply Japan and Toubkal climb, up 406%, 366% and 319% respectively.
Explore’s Financial Year runs from November 1 through October 31 and totals are for trips traveled during those months. Increased investment in overseas markets, including a new office for Australia and New Zealand, and a focus on trade business have contributed to this growth. 16% of Explore’s bookings are now through travel agents, as compared to 11% in 2019, resulting in a 73% increase in trade revenue.
Tags: Michael Edwards, Explore Worldwide
