Oliver's Travels, a leader in luxury villa rentals, has reported a significant rise in affluent travellers booking high-value villas closer to their departure dates.

From April to June, bookings exceeding £25,000 increased by 33%, whilst those made within 60 days of departure surged by 45% year-on-year. This trend highlights a shift in luxury traveller behaviour towards shorter booking windows and larger group gatherings.

The demand for larger properties is also on the rise, with bookings for villas accommodating 10 guests up by 51% compared to the previous year. Travel advisers have played a crucial role in facilitating these complex bookings, with a 22% increase in trade bookings year-on-year. Fern Higgins, Distribution and Travel Adviser Manager at Oliver’s Travels, noted, “Bookings made within 60 days of departure have increased by 45% year-on-year. The fact that advisers are bringing us these larger, later booking enquiries suggests affluent travellers are becoming more comfortable making significant travel decisions closer to departure.”

In June, Oliver’s Travels secured three record group bookings through travel advisers, including a £48,638 stay for 19 guests at Le Belvédère in St Tropez, confirmed just 14 days before departure. The company continues to invest in its travel adviser network, offering specialist training and support.

Additionally, Oliver’s Travels has launched a £5,000 referral initiative running until 31 August 2026, encouraging existing trade partners to refer new travel advisers, with the chance to win a gift voucher. This initiative aims to expand their network and cater to the growing demand for luxury villa holidays

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