Royal visit to Australia sparks accommodation frenzy
Interest in the destinations to be visited by Prince William, Princess Kate and baby George during their visit to Australia has shot up as Aussies keen to catch a glimpse of royalty check out local accommodation deals.
According to travel search site Trivago, searches have risen by an average 41% for the relevant dates and cities.
Adelaide saw the largest increases with interest up 213% for the royal visit date of April 23 as compared with the same date last year. Sydney climbed 15% on April 16, the date of their arrival, while the Blue Mountains surged 48% on April 10 when they will visit areas affected by the recent bush fires.
Searches for Brisbane and Canberra both rose 8% on their respective visit dates.
Interestingly, the Trivago results did not reflect a similar pattern in New Zealand – although whether this is due to the closer proximity of the destinations touched by their NZ visit or to lower levels of interest in the monarchy is unclear.
"Positive news is that although the have been increases in interest to the cities visited by the royal family on those days, for Australians wishing to travel to see Will and Kate, accommodation prices have remained stable," Trivago said.
Last week Voyages Indigenous Tourism executive general manager Ray Stone told Travel Today that Ayers Rock Resort had completely booked out on the date of its royal visit – April 22.
During their Uluru stay, the royals will visit the resort’s National Indigenous Training Academy where they will hand out certificates and meet trainees before spending time at the base of Uluru with the land’s traditional owners.
Meanwhile, Tourism Australia highlighted the longer term benefits of the visit.
Managing director John O'Sullivan expected it would deliver a “big boost” for Australian tourism, showcasing some of the country’s most famous tourism icons to the world through global media coverage.
“I'm sure the royal visit will attract huge followings and global media attention, particularly with the young Prince George in tow,” he said.
“The pictures we can expect to see broadcast across the world, against such stunning backdrops as Uluru, Manly beach and the Blue Mountains, are tourism gold. That kind of free international exposure can't really be bought, and is fantastic for the country.”
Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au
australia hotels royal visit royals royaltyLatest News
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