The high cost of living, post-pandemic wanderlust, changing weather patterns and overtourism are combining to turn travellers’ attention towards new destinations that have largely stayed out of the mainstream.
While Spain continues to attract the bulk of British holidaymakers, an increasing number of travellers are looking at alternatives to the busy Balearics and crowded Costas, where they’ll find a quieter landscape and lower prices.
A trends report by search engine Skyscanner has found that value for money remains a key factor for UK travellers, with the cost of the hotel (25 percent) and flight (22 percent) being the biggest factors determining the destination of their trip.
The report also showed the biggest year-on-year increase in searches for flights (up by 1,235 percent) to the city of Vigo in Galicia.
This corner of so-called “green Spain” – the landscapes are maintained by the temperate, oceanic climate in the north of the country – is already popular among Spanish tourists, but is quickly gaining the attention of Brits.
There are white-sand beaches in Vigo, including Samil, a 1,500-metre-long haven in the Navia neighbourhood.
Moreover, the idyllic Cies islands are just 45 minutes by ferry from Vigo and offer a cost-effective alternative to Ibiza and Majorca.
While parts of Majorca endured temperatures of close to 45C in July this year, Vigo rarely topped 30C.
In peak season, hotels will cost you around £96 per night.
For those wanting to cut down the cost, it is just £75 per night in most areas.
A locally sourced pint is just £2.50, coffee for £1.80 and if you fancy a meal in an authentic restaurant, expect to pay between £15-20.
Vigo is a great place to visit, offering a mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and vibrant city life.