The Dutch go on holiday more often this year

After a few years of a slight decrease and a stabilization in the number of holidays last year, the Dutch are expected to go on holiday more often again in 2016. Both the number of domestic and foreign holidays will increase. Spending on holidays is also increasing.

NBTC-NIPO Research bases this on, among other things, large-scale research into the holiday intentions of the Dutch. The results were presented during the trade day of the Vakantiebeurs on 12 January.

Both growth for domestic and foreign holidays

The total number of holidays increases by about 2%; The Dutch are taking more domestic and foreign holidays. A growth of about 3% is expected for foreign holidays. This increases the number of foreign holidays to 18,6 million. A more modest growth of around 1% is expected for domestic holidays, resulting in 17,2 million domestic holidays. Total spending on holidays is expected to increase by about 3% and amount to about 16,5 billion euros.

Positive economic expectations stimulate wanderlust

The main explanation for the positive holiday sentiment is the improving economy. The combination of growing consumer confidence and increasing purchasing power stimulates the wanderlust. Geopolitical tensions and (fear of) terrorist attacks could dampen the positive feeling somewhat. “But experience shows that the effects of this are often temporary and local. Consumers want to go on holiday and choose destinations that are perceived as safe," said a spokesperson.