Travel News: Brits Prefer to Build Sandcastles Rather Than Snowmen this Christmas
Research conducted by leading online travel agent On the Beach, shows that more holidaymakers than ever before are jetting off to enjoy Christmas in the sun this year; as sales to some of Europe’s most popular beach destinations rocket by 160 per cent year on year.
Latest sales data from On the Beach shows that rain soaked Brits will be relaxing on the beach and sipping on sangria rather than mulled wine this Christmas, with the Canary Islands proving the most popular destination this year.
With plenty of great value resorts and year round sunshine; the Canaries, are attracting more than twice as many Brits as any other holiday destination this Christmas.
Egypt is another popular choice for those hoping to avoid the usual festive frenzy; with the long stretches of beaches and blissful weather, proving all too tempting for many Brits as bookings soar; up 74 per cent on last year.
The Spanish Costas are a big hit with Brits this Christmas, with holiday bookings up 72 per cent. Festive breaks to resorts across Portugal have also seen a significant increase; up 68 per cent year on year.
The sun kissed island of Malta is more popular than ever this Christmas, with booking data from On the Beach recording a huge 160 per cent increase in bookings, compared to Christmas 2011.
Of those spending the festive holiday abroad, 42 per cent are couples, perhaps looking for some quality time together and avoiding the inevitable ‘family duties’ at Christmas.
A surprising 27 per cent of families with young children have booked to go abroad this Christmas compared to just 6 per cent of families with teenagers that spend Christmas away, suggesting the idea of a traditional Christmas at home may be a thing of the past.
Alistair Daly, Marketing Director at On the Beach says, “As the weather in the UK seems to go from bad to worse, it’s great to see Brits making the most of the great value holidays available over the Christmas period.
“Spain and its islands have proved most popular at this time of year, however it’s good to see that holidaymakers are spreading their wings and heading to the many other beautiful winter sun resorts across Europe and beyond.”
Will you be going away this Christmas? Let us know your thoughts by commenting below or tweeting us @FemaleFirst_UK
Shabana Adam @Shabs_A
Tagged in Christmas Travel Family Holidays