Three million 'to head overseas for Christmas'

Three million British people will head overseas during the Christmas period between December 17th and January 3rd, according to estimates by Abta - The Travel Association.

The ski season has started early this year following heavy snow in Europe and Geneva is expected to be one of the most popular gateways for winter sports enthusiasts over the coming weeks.

Cities such as Amsterdam, Dublin, Paris and New York are also expected to be popular among people travelling over the festive period.

However, Abta revealed that winter sun is the motivation for the majority of people, with hotspots such as Tenerife, Egypt and the Caribbean among the leading destinations.

Abta chief executive Mark Tanzer said: "Holidays - especially at this time of year - can provide happy, lifelong memories and an opportunity to spend quality time with family and friends.

"While passengers booked on British Airways must be breathing a huge sigh of relief as they can now look forward to their long planned-for holiday, our sympathy goes out to all those affected by the failure of Globespan."

Heathrow Airport will be the busiest UK gateway over the Christmas period, with around 1.5 million set to use the hub.

Posted by Kate, 18 December 2009 15:51

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• New York
• Amsterdam
• Dublin
• Geneva
• Paris
• Tenerife