Holidays still remain a high priority for people despite the current financial turmoil, a new study shows.



More than half (59%) said that even if they had to cut back on spending, their main annual holiday would be the last thing they would give up.

Eighty two per cent of the 2,000 Thomson and First Choice holidaymakers asked said their annual holiday was not a luxury but an important event in the year.



And 88% would not choose holidays as primary area to cut spending.



The two market leading TUI Travel operators suggested opting for 10 or 11 night breaks as opposed to 14 - meaning holidaymakers only need to take a week off work, but still have enough time to relax.

Other money savings tips include booking early as there may be less holidays available in 2009 due to operator capacity cuts and taking all-inclusive holidays to make it easier to budget on expenditure.



Long haul holidays should also be considered due to deals available on trips to Mexico, Florida and the Dominican Republic. 

Thomson and First Choice customer director Tim Williamson said: “Holidays are about much more than simply jetting off into the sun for two weeks.



“They’re about spending time with our loved ones, taking time out to play with the kids, losing yourself in a good book, or just sitting back in the sun and recharging your batteries.

“It’s for these reasons that 82% of those questioned consider the annual holiday not a luxury but an important part of the year.



“Even in today’s current economic climate, our research shows people do still want to go on holiday and are willing to make other sacrifices to make that possible.

“As UK industry leaders, we’re working hard with suppliers to ensure we’ve got a great range of holidays available that are great value and sensibly priced.”

by Phil Davies