Jet2 offer reduced deals to Bulgaria as Balkan Holidays cease trading

Daily Record

25-04-2025

Jet2holidays has announced cut price holidays to Bulgaria in the wake of the sudden closure of travel operator Balkan Holidays . The package holiday company announced it's ceasing trading from today (Friday, April 25). While Balkan holidays say no one will be 'left out of pocket', Jet2holidays is now offering £100 off bookings to the country per person in what they call a bid to 'make it easier' for customers affected. Balkan Holidays was established in 1966 and at it's height it carried more than 130,000 passengers in a year. It operated flights to Bulgaria's Bourgas area in the summer for beach holidays and had a winter programme to Sofia, the gateway to the country's ski resort Vitosha. Customers could also fly to Croatia, Montenegro, Slovenia, Malta and Northern Cyprus with the company from more than 17 UK airports But they announced their immediate closure today with the UK's managing director, Alexander Stoyanov, saying: 'It is really sad that the company should cease trading in the UK after all these years. 'The company is solvent, but it has become increasingly difficult to be competitive and profitable in the UK. 'Nobody will be left out of pocket and all suppliers will be paid and I thank them sincerely for their support over the years." Jet2holidays said its offer has been launched in response to increased demand for bookings to Bulgaria. They are offering customers who book for holidays to Bulgaria a £100 per booking discount using the code BULGARIA100. This applies to all summer 2025 and 2026 holidays. And the company says the offer can be used in conjunction with others. Customers can get £100 per person off bookings if they have a Jet2 account. Those without one can get £90 per person off. The offers are also available to use alongside holidays with free child place holidays. Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2holidays said: 'The closure of Balkan Holidays is very sad news indeed, and our thoughts are with everyone who is impacted. 'We know there are many customers wanting to enjoy their well-deserved holidays to the Bulgarian sunshine, so we are making it easier for them by offering them money off, as well as a simple and easy way to book.' Those who have already booked with Balkan Holidays should expect refunds in the coming weeks while customers currently abroad with the company will be unaffected and those with forward bookings will be refunded. Bulgaria's Black Sea coast has become an increasingly popular choice with holidaymakers thanks to its affordability. It's known for its extensive coastline with popular resorts like Sunny Beach, Golden Sands and Nessebar. It's an attractive option for holidaying on a budget as it remains cheaper than other European resorts. And it has year round appeal too. In the winter it is a draw for skiers and snowboarders with popular resorts like Bansko and Borovets providing plenty of powder for winter sports enthusiasts at more affordable prices than other places.