Currency expected to influence holiday decisions

Fluctuations in the exchange rate brought on by the global economic downturn are set to play a big part in British holidaymakers' destination choices over the coming year, according to the Association of British Travel Agents (Abta).

Frances Tuke, a spokesperson for Abta, said price will continue to be a "major consideration" for travellers, but currency will also be a factor, particularly for people visiting Europe and the USA.

"We do know that the euro and the dollar rates are going to really affect people's choices about where they go," she said. "It's as much about destinations as the tour operators people choose to book with."

While the high cost of the euro could lead to British people taking more holidays in the UK, Ms Tuke said that many people could opt for non-euro destinations that offer a guarantee of good weather, such as Egypt or Turkey.

"You've got to remember that the last two years in the UK have been quite wet, the weather hasn't been great for UK holidays," she said.

"Turkey and Egypt are also seeming to do quite well for next year as they seem to be quite good value options."

According to recent research by Abta, 83 per cent of people who have taken a recent overseas holiday are planning to take another one in the next 12 months.

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