Bad weather in Denmark boosting travel abroad – agencies

Travel agencies welcome the rainy days as this has contributed to an increase in bookings for travel to warm destinations

More people are cancelling their plans to spend their summer holidays in Denmark in search for warmer skies elsewhere. 

It is especially warm destinations such as Malta, Spain, Greece, Italy and Spain that entice people in Denmark to pack their suitcases, said Lars Thykier, CEO of Danmarks Rejsebureau Forening or the Danish Travel Agency Association.

“I think it’s excellent summer weather. That’s exactly what we need. It would certainly not hurt us if the meteorologists could forecast three more weeks of the not so good weather. The gray weather sells travel,” Thykier told DR.

Travel agency Århus Charter observed the same increase in demand for international trips due to the weather. “As tour operators, we are always happy that it is raining a little in Denmark,” said Henrik G. Jensen, the agency manager. 

Travelling in Europe
Danes can again travel to most of Europe without quarantine requirements upon entry and exit.

When a country is classified as “orange”, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs discourages all unnecessary travel to the destination.

Parts of Sweden are listed as orange. The same is true for all of Ireland and Portugal. 

Travel for 2021 already booked
As expected from travel-loving Danes, trips abroad are being booked quickly. 

“We booked our trip last Saturday. The kids wanted to leave and we pushed on. It will be nice to get away and finally be allowed to have a little holiday,” said Merete Kusk, who is vacationing in Spain with her family.

At Århus Charter, many customers are already booking trips for next year. “2021 looks really sensible. In terms of sales, we are already where we usually are in December,” said Jensen. 

It is now mandatory to wear masks at Danish airports. Some countries also require masks when travelling in public areas. Most of Europe has reopened to Danish tourists.