Double the price for a holiday to Spain’s Benidorm on the Costa Blanca

Holidaymakers fear doubling the prices for a holiday to Spain’s Benidorm on the Costa Blanca will make it impossible to spend their annual break in the popular resort.

INDUSTRY experts are predicting the cost of package holidays could soar after lockdown, with reports prices could double, “rising to as much as £1,000-a-head in order for airlines and hotels to manage social distancing,” reports Glasgow Live.

Martyn James, of consumer website Resolver, told The Mirror: “It’s likely the cost of overseas package deals will double. Even when they [customers] get to their hotel, there will be no buffet and all kinds of limitations around the pool.”

Aviation expert Matt Purton said customers could be looking at a 30 per cent rise in fare prices if airlines have to keep middle seats empty in line with social distancing regulations.

A potential hike in insurance costs and a decrease in business travel are also likely to play a part in rising holiday costs.

Robert Clare is a regular to Benidorm. He said: “Here’s my problem, me and the wife spend an average £2,000-ish for 10 days in Benidorm, usually twice a year. Now as much as we love Benidorm and have been going for more years than I care to divulge, lol, doubling the price does nothing except put us off going back.”

After sharing his comments on Benidorm Seriously, holidaymakers and residents were quick to share their views.

Beccie Kidd said: “Not going to go there if prices are too high, been 19 times in nearly three years.”

Charles Smithson has inside knowledge. He wrote: “We had our two holidays to Benidorm cancelled and were asked if we wanted to change to two next year. We did, as a friend of mine works in the travel industry and told us the prices would soar next year, supply and demand etc.

“When we changed them over it cost £40 to transfer each admin cost and the girl working for Jet2 told us it will soar next year. I said we’d already had that info, but both holidays were paid for in full so I thought it’s a good ploy, stay safe people.”

Linda Hartley advises against booking a holiday. “Best thing people should do not book, we’re all suffering money and job wise, we are pensioners and would be a struggle for us. If they just keep the prices as they were they will get more people booking, fingers crossed!!”

Florence Ní Mhurchú said: “I definitely do think prices will increase due to more cleaning/products, PPE training etc.

“Also for the fact of what has been lost, every company will be in the same position raising prices to meet end of year quota to be able to pay staff. I totally agree with that especially if it makes everything safer.

“In saying that if the price I pay for a week abroad is excessive and could cost me the same amount to holiday at home I will.”

Ronnie Scott said: “It stands to sense that someone will have to pay for all these safeguards being brought in to airports, planes, and hotels. Also insurance payments will go through the roof.”

David Marshall fears a hike in prices would be disastrous.

“Would be a bigger nail in their coffin than Covid-19, they still have to keep it competitive.”

And Tony Jones added: “Going back to years ago when only the very rich could afford a holiday abroad.”

Meanwhile, many will still be heading to Benidorm, as soon as they can.

Gary Rubble said of potential price rises: “Doesn’t surprise me if they do. To comply with social distancing and the relevant reduction in guests and passengers and the operating costs remaining the same, I can’t see how prices can remain the same. But saying that, first chance I get Beni, here I come.”

Neil Steadman thinks price hikes might not even be on the cards. “Keyword here is… scaremongering again I think. Personally looked at holidays next year through easyJet and tbh not looking that bad.”

James Hanratty agreed: “Pish I booked February next year cracking price.”

Richard Taylor said market forces set the price.

“If they don’t fill the flights or sell the rooms they will be cheaper. Don’t want to pay it, but will have no choice.”