Taking inspiration from Choice Hotels’ more than 180 hotel locations that stretch far and wide
across both Australia and New Zealand, the inaugural 100 Untold Stories list shines light on
the hidden gems, intriguing stories, fascinating people and must-visit experiences that are the
beating heart of regional areas.
From Japanese monkeys found in Launceston, Tasmania, to the crystal clear waters of Lake
Entrance in Victoria’s Gippsland region; Crocosauras Cove in the Top End and the
Underground Opera in Rockhampton Queensland; the carefully curated list of 100 Untold
Stories includes adventures across themes of food and wine, nature, sport, art, culture and
many more fascinating and wonderful things to explore.
Trent Fraser, CEO of Choice Hotels Asia-Pac said: “No doubt, 2020 has been a tough year
for our communities. As we begin to emerge from the devastating impact of recent bushfires
and the COVID-19 pandemic, regional tourism is more important than ever in helping these
areas get back on their feet and thrive again, safely, and securely.
“With international travel on the back burner for the foreseeable future, there is no better time
to consider taking a short break to explore our own backyard and ultimately feed tourism back
into regional areas again – instead of that big international trip why not take 3-4 short breaks
and explore our beautiful country,” he added.
According to the research more than 80 per cent of Australians say they feel revitalised after
a short break, three out of four feel they get balance back in their life, most are happier and
more than one-third have a closer connection with their family after enjoying a short break
together.
Despite this, Australian travellers only take an average of two short breaks per year with one
in four not taking a break at all and more than one-third saying that work related concerns are
a big barrier to taking more breaks.
Data has also shown as of the end of 2019 Australians had accrued the largest total amount
of annual leave for years, with 146 million days of annual leave waiting to be used – this,
coupled with Australia’s easing of restrictions as we emerge from the COVID-19 crisis,
represents a supreme opportunity to reinvigorate Aussies to take time off, especially when the
health and wellbeing benefits associated with short breaks are evident.
With more people transitioning to a work-from-home set-up for the foreseeable future, it’s even
more essential for people to switch off and manage their work-life balance. Recent discussions
across New Zealand around the concept of a ‘four day work week’, in light of the learnings on
flexible work in the last few months will also facilitate more people to take advantage of a
longer weekend, and get away for a short break.
Data obtained by Choice Hotels has revealed cancelations have tapered off significantly since
the announcement of restrictions easing, with new bookings outpacing cancelations. In May,
reservations increased by 58%, with revenue up by 142%. Similarly, in New Zealand,
reservations increased by 68%, and revenue is up by 95%.
So, what do we want out of a short break? The research by Choice Hotels uncovered the top
three motivations for Australians to take a short break holiday are to spend time with family
(39 percent), visit a new destination (28 percent) and try something new or different (23
percent).
“We want people to feel optimistic, excited and safe about the upcoming reopening of
domestic travel and give them the opportunity to book with confidence and have something to
look forward to – it’s our intention that 100 Untold Stories list will become a great source of
inspiration for travel at home”, said Fraser.
As part of its response to ensuring guests feel safe and secure when travelling on their short
breaks, Choice Hotels has implemented its Commitment to Clean initiative which involves
enhanced protocols and best practice guidance for cleaning, disinfecting, hygiene, and social
distancing.
To encourage Australians to book a short break away, Choice Hotels is running a limited time
offer with up to 30 percent off accommodation bookings made between June 10 and July 20,
for stays through to 31 December 2020. To take advantage of this offer head to
www.choicehotels.com.au.
For inspiration on where to spend your next short break holiday and to see the full list of 100
Untold Stories visit www.100UntoldStories.com
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