Crete in ABTA’s ‘Destinations to Watch in 2024’ Report

The Greek island of Crete is included in the “Destinations to Watch in 2024” report released by ABTA – The Travel Association on Friday.

The new report features 10 countries and regions which are intended to inspire holidaymakers and help inform their decision making as they decide where they will be heading off on holiday in 2024.

ABTA’s most recent consumer research found that 64 percent of people will travel abroad over the next 12 months. The research has also found that 47 percent of people plan to visit a resort or city they have never been to before (up from 43 percent in 2022) and 41 percent a totally new country (up from 38 percent in 2022).

According to the association, if the numbers becomes reality, then the percentage of people travelling will be in line with 2019 – which was a bumper year for travel.

“We know that many people are looking for inspiration and new suggestions of where to go, so our team of experts at ABTA has put together a list of 10 ‘Destinations to Watch’ which offer varied and memorable experiences around the globe,” Graeme Buck, ABTA’s Director of Communications, said.

Crete

In the report, ABTA says that Crete, Greece’s largest island, is “guaranteed” to restore travelers’ love for life.

“Its most famous creation ‘Zorba the Greek’ star of book and film, fully expressing the Cretans’ irrepressible joie de vivre and warm hospitality to guests,” the report notes.

ABTA’s team of experts recommends that travelers begin their trip in the capital Heraklion with its impressive Venetian port, a city bursting with bars, museums and restaurants.

The Archaeological Site of Knossos is considered a “must-see” site while the town of Rethymno, and the historic coastal towns of Ierapetra and Sitia are all well worth a visit.

Knossos, Crete. Photo source: Culture Ministry.

On the other hand, ABTA suggests the resorts of Agios Nikolaos and Elounda for those looking for glamour and five-star luxury.

The report also highlights Cretan food, which is based on the freshest of local ingredients. “You can eat very healthily and then enjoy a glass (or three!) of the fiery local alcohol ‘Tsikoudia’ with some of the most welcoming people on the planet.”

ABTA’s “Destinations to Watch in 2024” report also include (in alphabetical order): Albania, Aruba, Extremadura, Mauritius, Saxony, Shropshire, The Tyrol, Vietnam and Zambia.

The report was released ahead of “Sunshine Saturday”, the first Saturday after the Christmas and New Year break and one of the busiest days of the year for holiday bookings, according to ABTA.

A trade association for UK travel agents, tour operators and the wider travel industry, ABTA has over 4,600 travel brands in membership.