Eurozone bounces back…
Bookings for eurozone destinations have bounced back this summer, according to ABTA
It claims bookings for Spain are running at 11% ahead of last year, Portugal is up 8% and even beleaguered Greece, which has been plagued with threats of strikes, is up 2% on last year.
Overall, bookings for Europe and North Africa for summer 2011 are seeing an upturn of 9%, according to research from GfK-Ascent M1, said ABTA.
The Association said the growth has been fuelled by hoteliers keeping prices low, tour operators offering all-inclusive options and lower prices in bars and restaurants.
European cities such as Paris, Rome and Madrid have also seen some growth from the UK, said ABTA.
For summer bargains, ABTA is suggesting holidaymakers look to Tunisia and Egypt, both of which are offering discounts to try to lure visitors back amidst ongoing political unrest in North Africa, and to Turkey.
Availability for cruises is more limited as these are continuing to be popular, with an expected 5% increase in cruising from the UK this year.
ABTA said interest in luxury holidays and spa breaks had returned and it has also seen greater demand for activity and adventure holidays.
By Linsey McNeill
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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