Almost three quarters of those questioned in a TripAdvisor poll say they would prefer to travel to western Europe this year. The survey of more than 1,800 travellers by the online information and advice site found that 70% were interested in the region. This contrasts with last year when eastern Europe was the preferred European region. Of those polled, 62% of travellers said they intended to visit Europe in 2006 with Italy as the top destination, with Rome the most popular city followed by Venice. Londoners were voted the second most friendliest and helpful locals after Dubliners. American travellers gave Londoners the vote for being the most affable citizens in Europe. But Athenians and Moscovites were considered among the least friendly and helpful locals in Europe's major capital cities, the company said Italy was top choice for food (54%) for best cuisine while England only attracted 3.7% of the vote, coming fifth behind France, Spain and Greece but just ahead of Germany. TripAdvisor communications director Michele Perry said: "We are seeing a trend shift with travellers now favouring classic popular destinations such as Rome, Venice, Paris and London, while eastern Europe was all the rage in 2005. "With all of the incredible variety Europe has to offer, it was surprising that the top two cities according to travellers are both in Italy." Report by Phil Davies

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