Orange is proving popular as a destination for tourists during the school holidays.
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Online travel company Wotif says the number of people seeking bookings for the current school holidays for Orange has increased by 400 per cent after the easing of travel restrictions.
It compared family booking interest on its website from May 15 to June 11 with the level of interest received from April 17-May 14.
At the beginning of June we had basically nothing booked for July. Now we are well over 80 per cent.
- Thomas Nock, Byng Street Boutique Hotel
Byng Street Boutique Hotel proprietor Thomas Nock said the level of bookings at the hotel had soared.
"At the beginning of June we had basically nothing booked for July. Now we are well over 80 per cent," he said.
"We're seeing a lot of tourists. It has been extremely busy."
Mr Nock said the hotel had managed to keep open during the coronavirus lockdown but he said there were days when they had few, if any, guests staying.
He said they also had forward bookings into October.
"October is a good month because there is a lot of activities on," he said.
Wotif managing director Daniel Finch said Orange had rated second, behind Bowral, for an increase in tourist interest.
"A trip to Orange is the quintessential regional trip Aussie families are craving, with such rich history, open spaces and fantastic local eateries that even the kids will enjoy," he said.
Mr Finch said there had also been an increase in demand for people to visit Dubbo's zoo.
"As one of the best family-friendly regional cities in NSW, with so many unique experiences on offer including the award-winning Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo is the prefect destination for the whole family to enjoy," he said.
Mr Finch said people were keen to travel to regional areas for holidays.
"After spending months indoors, Wotif.com data shows Aussies have a new-found appreciation for regional travel," he said.
"The school holidays presents the perfect opportunity to recharge the batteries and enjoy some quality family time."
"There is a big job ahead to support the tourism industry.
"But, as confidence returns, it's promising to see families are looking to make a meaningful impact these school holidays, by holidaying regionally." Wotif surveyed 1247 people.
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David Fitzsimons
I am a senior journalist at the Central Western Daily concentrating on council, government and real estate issues. Before moving to Orange I filled senior roles at the Daily Telegraph, Daily Telegraph-Mirror and the Daily Mirror in Sydney. They included being an editor, news editor, chief of staff and reporter.
I am a senior journalist at the Central Western Daily concentrating on council, government and real estate issues. Before moving to Orange I filled senior roles at the Daily Telegraph, Daily Telegraph-Mirror and the Daily Mirror in Sydney. They included being an editor, news editor, chief of staff and reporter.
