It’s been a summer of highs and lows. We’ve had days when the beaches of Ireland have been jam-packed with crowds feasting on melting 99s. And then there have been days when the only thing gracing the beach was clouds of mist and rain. All in all, an average Irish summer.

However, if you feel you need an injection of vitamin D before the winter hits, then last-minute holidays may be high on your agenda. It’s been a very unusual year for the holiday market, as terrorist attacks, the migrant crisis and sometimes the sheer perception associated with them have taken some popular destinations right off the table.

Destinations disappeared

Paul Hackett, CEO and co-founder of Irish travel company ClickandGo.com explains more: “Egypt, Tunisia, Morocco, Turkey were once very popular holiday destinations for Irish consumers. But over this year and last, all have seen a serious decline in tourist numbers.

“Even though Morocco hasn’t been attacked, they are feeling the implications. However, it’s Turkey that has really taken a hit. I’d estimate their beach resorts are down by 75%, if not more.

“A few years ago, there were over 10 charter flights a week going from Ireland as well as airline flights. It was a destination that always sold well. Now there are two Aer Lingus flights a week,” he says.

It’s not just Irish tourists who are avoiding these areas. “Tourists from the UK, France, Germany and the Nordic countries all want to head in the direction of the sun. As a result, everyone’s looking at alternative destinations and some markets reached saturation points this summer.”

Saturated Markets

The likes of the Algarve in Portugal, all the Costas in Spain and the Canary Islands have undeniably reaped the benefits, playing on their strengths of being safe-haven destinations.

This is especially relevant for families with children, where the issue of safety plays on their conscience far more than couples or single people, who are primarily out for a good time at the best price.

So what impact has this increase in popularity had on price? Paul says: “On average, rates haven’t increased much. However, what we have found is that the good accommodation sold out very early. In fact, hoteliers in Spain and Portugal have probably had the best season in 10 years, with room occupancy levels close to 100% in peak months.

“This has left those hoping to bag a last-minute deal with very limited options. There are still seats available with Aer Lingus and Ryanair but very little accommodation to match. We do believe, though, that while prices weren’t affected massively this year, there may be a knock-on effect next year, so consumers may need to get even more organised for the 2017 breakaway – especially if you have your heart set on a particular property or destination,” warns Paul.

Furthermore, people are looking outside the “usual” destinations. Irish consumers are heading towards less developed areas than the traditional resorts, and many are enjoying the more authentic areas of Spain. Costa Almeria in the south of Spain, the nearby resort of Roquetas de Mar and Costa Calida are all growing in popularity as well as the coastline between the Algarve and Costa de la Luz.

August angst

If you are hoping to hit the road over the coming weeks, though, what’s on offer? Paul advises: “If you can avoid travelling in August, then do so. You will run into problems trying to get accommodation, but your options will open up in September when the kids go back to school.”

For example, in September you can head to the Algarve for €265 per person, while Tenerife starts from €289. Lanzarote and the Costa del Sol are coming in at around €349 per person. Prices with ClickandGo.com include flights, transfers, accommodation for seven nights, 10kg carry-on luggage, taxes and charges.

Even if September is becoming a more realistic option, it’s worth booking now to avoid disappointment. Sara Zimmerman, managing director of the Travel Department says: “Although there is more availability in September, it is selling fast now, and prices are on the increase. Many of the hotels we work with, particularly four-star and above, are reporting exceptional demand.”

Holidays with a difference

It’s also worth thinking outside the box, especially if you don’t have children in tow. There is some availability with guided options, a holiday which is really growing in popularity with Irish consumers. Suiting those who aren’t fans of seven days by the pool, these trips allow you to see the beautiful scenery of the countryside and the bustling cities but take the hassle out of exploring.

For example, you can enjoy the coast and country of the Algarve taking in tours of the historic centre of Lagos, the rugged cliff top of Sagres, old Faro town and market as well as the picturesque Serra de Monchique mountain range for €759 per person with the Travel Department. Flying out in mid September, prices include half board, flights, transfers, accommodation, guides and excursions.

If you’re really into the travelling buzz, then Insight Vacations also has a few offers worth checking out. An eight-day European breakaway takes in the sights of London, Brussels, the Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland and France including seven nights’ premium accommodation for €1,869 per person sharing (down from €2,200), flying out on 18 September.

You’ll also still get good temperatures in the States and if you fancy experiencing New England in the Fall, where the heat isn’t quite as intense as the summer, then the Travel Department has an option of flying out on 3 October for €1,999, taking in the sights of Boston, Southern New Hampshire and Rhode Island.

These types of holiday might not always have been on your radar but with the usual destinations reaching saturation point, it might be time to expand your options, if the budget allows.