Tunisia, Morocco 'to be popular for short breaks in 2010'

Tunisia and Morocco will be among the most popular destinations for Brits taking short breaks in 2010, according to a travel expert.

Frances Tuke, a spokeswoman for Abta - The Travel Association, said the continuing strength of the euro against the pound will encourage people to consider destinations outside the continent.

"When it comes to short breaks Tunisia and Morocco will probably be the winners this year," she said.

The Abta spokeswoman also explained that the recent change to the air passenger duty system could have a positive effect on these destinations by making flights cheaper.

"Morocco and Tunisia were outside the EU band and so passengers were charged £40 per person, whereas now they are classed in the closest geographical band so people will only pay £11," Ms Tuke said.

Despite the rising interest in non-euro destinations, Abta expects traditional hotspots such as Spain and Portugal in western Europe to remain popular this year, with around 79 per cent of British travellers expected to visit their country's closest neighbours.

Posted by Kate, 07 January 2010 12:50

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