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The number of festive holidaymakers heading overseas between Christmas and New Year has increased compared to last year. Personal finances might be stretched to the limit for many, but for the 4.25 million Brits heading on holiday this winter this does not appear to be a problem. “With all the doom and gloom of the economy it looks like people are keen to escape for a break, whether they are visiting friends and family or looking to enjoy winter sun or guaranteed snow,” said Mark Tanzer, ABTA Chief Executive. Figures from the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) estimate that 4.25 million people will travel overseas between 16th December and 3rd January, compared to just under 4 million Brits last year. This time of year is traditionally one of the peak getaway periods. The research found that Paris, Reykjavik, Rome, Dublin and New York are the most popular cities for New Year celebrations. ABTA believes that as the snow has begun to all in Europe, Ski resorts in France, Austria, Switzerland and Italy will be rammed full of Brits hopping to catch some of the white stuff. The majority of travellers are sun-seekers though, heading to hot destinations such as the Canary Islands, Cuba, the Dominican Republic and Mexico. Some will even be flying south for the winter to Australia and New Zealand for a Christmas and New Year ‘down under.’ "Christmas and the New Year are amongst the busiest times of the year for the travel industry and I am delighted that millions of our customers are taking advantage of time off,” continued Mark Tanzer. Travellers could be advised to take advantage of travel insurance and shop around for the best winter deal. Compare travel insurance with Money Expert.
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