Brits Stay Put As Continent Comes To Us
Record numbers of continental visitors will be joining UK families this year on Britain's holiday parks, says leading leisure group Park Holidays UK.
Spring sunshine, the royal wedding, and the Euro's greater buying power are all helping to fuel extra demand from France, Germany and the Netherlands, says the company.
"We are significantly up on last year's booking figures for this season, and a greater number of guests than ever before are coming from mainland Europe," says director Tony Clish.
"The British have clearly decided to make it another stay-cation - but summer is also turning into something of a come-cation for many continental families," he added.
Park Holidays UK owns 25 holiday parks in the South of England, and provides holiday caravans and lodges to rent, plus pitches for touring caravans, motorhomes and tents.
Its parks in Devon are the leading destination for visitors from overseas, followed by parks located near the channel ports in Sussex and Kent, and the North Sea ports in Essex.
"If we also get the weather we are promised this summer, there's going to be a great continental atmosphere across all of our parks as soon as the main holidays start," said Tony.
"Most families from Britain and abroad are bringing children, and as kids are great mixers I'm sure they will help mums and dads strike up friendships with each other," he predicted.
Lists of nearby locations with royal connections have been identified by parks for the many people believed to have been inspired to visit Britain by the royal wedding.
"More guests from mainland Europe is great news for us, but they will also have a very positive impact on Britain's tourism economy in rural regions," said Tony.
"Over the past few years, British families have decided that this country offers a much better holiday experience - and far better value - than crowded and overpriced foreign resorts.
"Hopefully, this year's guests from the continent will also feel that England really does put the Mediterranean in the shade.
"We will certainly be doing our bit to ensure that their summer of love for Britain will be just the start of a long and passionate affair," he added.
Tagged in Travel