FPTR analysis: Over 5,500 tourists spent their mini-vacation in the Delta, with an occupancy rate of 40%

During the mini-holiday of May 1st and Easter, over 200,000 Romanians went to a resort in Romania, occupying almost half of the classified accommodation places, according to a press release from FPTR.

The large number of free days did not represent an advantage for domestic tourism, as Romanians preferred to spend Easter at home with relatives and friends. The decrease in incomes, the price increase of basic products and the cold weather meant that the number of Romanians who chose to leave home on this mini-vacation was small compared to the expectations of tourism operators.

According to an INSCOP survey, most Romanians stayed at home on May 1, choosing to celebrate this day with their family. This year, fewer people decided to go to the beach for Labor Day. Specifically, 65.6% of those surveyed said they would stay at home, while 12.5% ​​chose to spend time elsewhere by traveling. Of these, only 3.4% declared that they will be at the seaside on May 1.

Like every year, at Easter, rural tourism was in the top of Romanians’ preferences, they were looking for destinations away from the crowds, with picturesque landscapes. The attraction of these areas were the tourist attractions, the local products and the educational and entertaining activities for children, the guesthouse owners trying to create a traditional Romanian atmosphere. Most tourist packages prepared were with stays of at least 3 nights and types of meals according to the wishes of each tourist, most of the Romanians choosing only the traditional Easter dinner where they were awaited with drob, pascha, red eggs and wine Red. The rates were between 150 and 250 lei per night. The owners of the pensions have prepared approximately 67,000 places in rural destinations with tradition: Bran-Moeciu, Bucovina, Maramureș, the Transylvania area and Oltenia. Unfortunately, the capricious weather meant that only 70% of the accommodation places were occupied, so 46,900 tourists, eager to discover authentic traditions, local gastronomy and folklore, participated in these experiences.

Romanian seaside this year it remained the favorite tourist destination for fun-loving young people, who preferred the “last minute” offers in one of the resorts with open clubs, such as Mamaia or Vama Veche, where most accommodation units were opened. In this destination, hoteliers made available approximately 50,000 classified places, and the average rate was 200 lei/person/night.
Even though 25,000 reservations were made in the classified units on the seaside, their number did not increase much, due to the unfavorable weather in the first period of the mini-vacation, so the number of tourists who opted for the classified units was 35,000, in which s – added 10,000 tourists who preferred the apartments.
Romanian tourists preferred Mamaia, Costinești and Vama Veche, resorts where many events were organized. A double room during the May 1st mini-vacation started from just over 100 lei per night in Eforie Sud and could reach over 300 lei at a four-star hotel in Eforie Nord. There were also exceptions, which captured the attention of the media, with prices reaching 1,500 euros for one night.
Vama Veche was the only resort that had an occupancy rate of 90%, only in the first days of the mini-vacation.

Spa destinations from Romania remained in great demand during the May 1st and Easter mini-holidays. According to the latest data, Băile Felix took first place in the ranking of resorts with the highest degree of occupancy, reconfirming its popularity among tourists. Also, Călimănești Căciulata was among the Romanians’ favorite spa destinations during this period. Out of a total of 45,000 accommodation places in this segment, approximately 50% were occupied, i.e. 22,500 places, and for a three-night stay with full board, the costs varied between 150 and 600 lei per night/person, offering tourists various options according to their preferences, services and desired comfort. The tourist packages included, in most cases, themed meals specific to the Easter holidays, access to the swimming pool, sauna and jacuzzi, as well as various organized excursions, contributing to a relaxing and varied experience. Over 55% of tourists opted for accommodation in 4 and 5 star units, benefiting from additional facilities such as access to thermal waters, live shows and programs dedicated to children, all of which ensure a successful vacation in these destinations.

In the mountains, the most requested were the accommodation units in the classic resorts of Prahova Valley, Poiana Brașov, Păltiniș, Stana de Vale, Arieseni, Rânca and Straja. A large number of tourists opted for relaxation in the middle of nature and for spending time with the family in picturesque mountain landscapes. Hoteliers in these regions received almost 57,000 tourists, with an occupancy rate of 60%. The tourist packages included accommodation for at least three nights, breakfast and a festive Easter dinner, priced between 150 and 450 lei per night per person, also offering entertainment options such as live music and surprise gifts. These packages have been designed to enrich the guest experience. Complimentary amenities such as the pool, spa, game room and gym were available at the locations preferred by visitors. The increased interest in mountain destinations and green tourism has highlighted these places as ideal alternatives to urban congestion, perfect for those who want to de-stress and reconnect with nature.

The Danube Delta remains a special destination, appreciated by tourists. During this mini-vacation, localities such as Sulina, Crișan and Băltenii de Sus were among the most popular choices for visitors. Accommodations at hotels and guesthouses were varied, offering comfort and authentic experiences through lake and canal excursions, speedboat transfers and full meal service. Accommodation rates averaged 220 lei per night per person, and occupancy reached 40%, bringing more than 5,500 tourists to the region.

This May 1st and Easter mini-vacation once again demonstrated the diversity and wealth of tourist options in Romania, whether we are talking about relaxation in spa resorts, adventures in mountain resorts, spiritual refuge in traditional rural areas or fun on the seaside. Although the economic challenges and weather conditions this year have not been favorable, the steady interest in domestic tourism remains high. Tour operators and guesthouse owners continue to innovate and improve their offerings, demonstrating remarkable adaptability to the changing preferences of tourists. These efforts are reflected in the significant percentages of occupancy and the satisfaction of tourists, who choose to explore the beauties, authenticity and specific traditions of our country. As we head towards the summer season, we are confident that Romanian tourism will continue to offer beautiful experiences, thus contributing to the revitalization and dynamism of this vital sector for the national economy.

These data are approximate, they were obtained based on the estimates provided by the FPTR members and the survey applied to a significant number of tourism operators, according to the press release of the Federation of Romanian Tourism Employers.

Editor: Adina Sîrbu/ Photo: Ovidiu Oprea