'Busiest holiday season ever', say tourism operators

Local tourism businesses are reporting a busy holiday season, despite "strict new laws" effective on December 18 to control short-term rental accommodation.

Sydney residents have looked to the Peninsula and Central Coast, driven by coronavirus concerns and particularly restrictions on interstate travel.

Holiday bookings "look to be the busiest for the region in it history", according to Accom Holidays, which claims to be the Peninsula's largest holiday rental company.

Principal Mr Stephen Brooks said that holiday bookings were continuing at a busy pace during the current season.

"The ongoing demand is still due to the Covid restrictions, especially when border restriction come back into place," he said.

"The Sydney market specifically has seen the advantages of travelling locally and enjoying all the benefits of a shorter trip while being on some of the best beaches, National Parks and waterways on the east coast of Australia."

He said many had taken the attitude: "Why travel for many hours or even fly when in just a couple of hours you can be in your holiday property and enjoying the delights of the Central Coast?".

Member for Terrigal Mr Adam Crouch said the mandatory Code of Conduct introduced obligations for hosts and guests, on December 18, centred on minimum standards of good behaviour.

SOURCE:

Media statement, 8 Jan 2021

Stephen Brooks, Accom Holidays