Holidays in the eurozone demonstrating growth

With less than two weeks before the start of the main summer school holidays, ABTA is encouraging UK holidaymakers not to leave it too late to book their summer break after trends show some encouraging areas of growth.

Despite the tough economy, the number of holidays booked for eurozone destinations such as Spain [+11%], Portugal [+8%] and Greece [+2%], have bounced back after two tough years with overall short haul bookings [Europe and North Africa] to date for Summer 2011 seeing an upturn of 9% according to latest figures from leading market research company GfK-Ascent MI. This growth has been fed by hoteliers keeping prices low, tour operators offering all inclusive options and prices in Bars and restaurants coming down due to the tough economic situation on the continent. Short haul growth has also helped boost the short-break market from the UK to popular cities such as Paris, Madrid and Rome.

Great deals are to be found in Tunisia and Egypt which are very keen on welcoming UK tourists back after the political upheaval earlier this year. The travel trade is also finding that there are still bargains to be had in Turkey which has seen spectacular growth in recent years.

Cruises are continuing to be popular in 2011, with an expected 5 per cent increase in the number of passengers cruising from the UK this year. In the summer, the Mediterranean provides the most popular cruising itineraries, and while it is still possible to book some late deals for the school summer holidays, availability is limited.

Source: Travel Daily News