Decades old travel brochures from Siesta Holidays in Middlesbrough have recently resurfaced, shedding light on the fascinating world of package holidays in the 1980s and 90s. Siesta Holidays, a company that has been organizing coach holidays around Europe for an impressive 44 years, offered affordable vacation options long before the era of cheap flights and Airbnb.
To commemorate their nearly five decades of providing budget-friendly holidays for individuals in the North East, Siesta Holidays has released some of their earliest brochures. These vintage brochures offer a glimpse into the past, showcasing the incredible deals that were available to travelers during that time.
In 1982, one of the most sought-after budget offers was an all-inclusive 17-day trip for a mere £69, which is equivalent to around £250 in today’s currency. What’s more, children under 19 were able to travel for free, making family vacations even more affordable. A one-week break could be enjoyed for just £49, while a two-week excursion could be had for as little as £69. These incredible prices included all travel arrangements and accommodation, taking tourists to exotic destinations such as the south of France, the Italian Riviera, and Spain.
As the years progressed, Siesta Holidays continued to offer unbeatable deals to their customers. In 1994, all children under the age of 19 were eligible for free holidays, further cementing the company’s reputation for providing affordable travel options. In 1989, Siesta Holidays expanded their offerings to include trips to destinations further afield, such as the former Yugoslavia and Austria.
Traveling with Siesta Holidays was not just about reaching your destination; it was also about the journey itself. Customers had the opportunity to travel in style on ‘super coaches’ and experience the beauty of the French countryside aboard the SNCF ‘Holiday Express’. These unique modes of transportation added an extra layer of excitement to the travel experience, making each journey memorable in its own right.
Despite their long-standing success in the travel industry, Siesta Holidays recently announced that they will be closing their doors next month due to financial pressures. Director John Harrison cited several reasons for the closure, including the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced the company to shut down for two years and impacted their ability to invest in marketing efforts. Additionally, the complexities of post-Brexit travel regulations have made it more difficult and costly to cross the Channel, adding to the overall expenses of operating a travel business.
Harrison also noted that changes in consumer behavior, particularly among younger travelers who now prefer low-cost airlines for their European getaways, have contributed to the company’s decision to close. As the client base of Siesta Holidays has aged, health concerns have also played a role, with some individuals no longer able to travel for medical reasons.
While the closure of Siesta Holidays is undoubtedly a loss for the travel industry, the company leaves behind a legacy of fond memories for countless customers. Upon announcing their closure, Siesta Holidays received an outpouring of support from past and present travelers who shared stories of the unforgettable experiences they had while vacationing with the company. The vintage brochures serve as a testament to the important role Siesta Holidays played in providing affordable trips to the continent, allowing families to create lasting memories together.
In conclusion, Siesta Holidays may be closing their doors, but their impact on the travel industry and the lives of their customers will not be forgotten. The vintage brochures offer a glimpse into a bygone era of travel, where affordable vacations and unforgettable experiences were within reach for all. As we bid farewell to Siesta Holidays, we remember the joy and excitement they brought to countless travelers over the past four decades, leaving behind a legacy of affordable adventures and cherished memories.