The sharp rise in energy prices seems to be encouraging Belgians to spend part of the winter in warmer, sunnier parts of Europe, as several tour operators have noticed.
"Belgians are coming more often to find out about long stays of at least three weeks in the south," TUI noted. "The reason for this renewed interest is the rise in energy prices. People do their calculations and deduce that it is more financially interesting to stay a little in the south."
The travel and tourism company has observed a 50% increase in long stays for next winter compared to the previous one. These are not only retirees, but also workers looking for a base.
Some companies offer the possibility of working from abroad.
Sunweb, meanwhile, has seen a 27% jump in vacation bookings for at least three weeks. The Belgian Association of Tour Operators (ABTO) confirms the trend. "The Belgian is smart. If he can turn off the heating at home for a few weeks, he will do it," said spokesman Pierre Fivet. German customers would adopt similar behaviour, he added.
