Number of Brits taking holidays abroad fell dramatically in 2009

In 2009, the number of Brits taking holidays abroad dropped dramatically. It was the sharpest fall in holiday sales since the 1970s. Foreign trips abroad were down 10.4 million from 2008's figures. Brits also spent over £5 million less in foreign destinations. We favoured trips in the UK over holidays abroad and money spent on UK holidays rose by £1 billion.

The number of foreigners visiting the UK for a holiday also fell, but London remained the most popular destination for foreign visitors, with Edinburgh coming in second.

Last year Spain, France and the USA were the most popular holiday destinations for Brits, and Egypt, Lithuania and Jamaica were the only countries that saw a rise in visitor numbers. Mexico dropped dramatically in popularity, probably due to the outbreak of swine flu that put many people off travelling there.

Though visitor numbers were down, holidays abroad increased in length. On average people were spending 10.5 nights abroad compared to 9.9 nights in 2008.

The drop in the number of people taking holidays abroad in 2009 followed a steady rise over the last 25 years or so. This summer, the number of visitors taking holidays abroad should be greater than last year.

Hoteliers have dropped their prices in a bid to attract visitors. Also, the strengthening of the pound against the euro has made holidays in Europe far more affordable for Brits. Currently, 1 British pound works out at roughly 1.17 euros. More affordable holiday prices will lead to a natural increase in the number of Brits taking holidays abroad.

More Brits have been booking cruises this summer, as volcanic ash, BA strikes and strike action in Greece have put some people off flying. Cruises that leave British ports are convenient and they allow travellers to visit some stunning locations without the need to fly.

Whether you are flying, cruising or hopping on a ferry to Calais, your holidays abroad should always be accompanied by comprehensive travel insurance. Insurewithease.com has a range of affordable single trip travel insurance policies available. We also have annual travel insurance policies for people that take regular holidays abroad.

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