Aerospace

Las Vegas takes Gold as athletes' top destination

Posted 15 August 2012

It seems that British athletes will be going from the podium to the party, as Las Vegas is the number one destination for athletes following the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, according to a recent BA survey.

Official airline partner British Airways asked a number of Team GB and ParalympicsGB athletes about their holiday plans post September. Far from having a relaxing break, the results showed that many of the athletes will be seeking sun and fun, following weeks and months of gruelling schedules.

Nearly a third of athletes (28%) are planning a trip to America with Las Vegas and Orlando among the top cities. In second place is Brits favourite Spain, with 13% of athletes planning a break to the mainland and its islands, with Ibiza topping the list - and just in time for the closing parties!

One of the many athletes planning a trip to Las Vegas is triathlete Helen Jenkins, who said: “My husband and I Iove Vegas and cannot wait to return. The weather is always great, and there’s always something going on. I’m not surprised it’s popular with the athletes as we’ve all trained so hard for so long - it provides the perfect antidote to get away from it all.”

In joint third place are Australia, Greece and Thailand – preferred destinations for their sunshine, beaches, sports activities, great food and culture.

Some of the more unusual destinations included; Lithuania, Cuba and the less far-flung - Scotland! The findings also revealed that there’s no rest for some athletes, with 4% planning an active ski or snowboarding holiday.

The top destinations chosen by Team GB and ParalympicsGB athletes include; America, Spain, Greece, Thailand, Australia, Maldives and France.

Richard Tams, British Airways Head of Sales and marketing for UK and Ireland, said: “We’ve seen a slight increase in late summer bookings this year, due to many holidaymakers staying at home to support our athletes during the London 2012 Games. The good news is that there are still lots of late bargains to be had.

“There’s some great deals to Spain and Greece for those looking for a quick city break, to make it back in time for the Paralympic Games. For holidaymakers looking to go further afield, then Mexico is great this time of year, although the party atmosphere in Jamaica following their Olympic success may well be more appealing to those looking for a lively time.”