Downturn 'not deterring holidays'

More than two in three Britons plan to spend the same amount or more on holidays this year as in 2008, despite the downturn, a survey suggests.

A poll for travel organisation Abta found average holiday spending in 2009 is likely to be £632.04 per person.

It said 8% of the 2,447 adults surveyed were prepared to spend above £1,200 on a holiday.

Bookings to Egypt, Turkey, Orlando in Florida and cruise holidays are all currently popular, Abta said.

The poll suggested that a family of four is likely to spend £2,500 on a holiday.

More than 50% of respondents were happy to spend up to £500 on flights and accommodation, it said.

Just 9% intended to leave their booking until the last minute.

Casia Zajac, from Abta, said: "Holidays are important to people in different ways but the research is clear that holidays are a vital part of people's year and still will be this year despite the economic downturn.

"Planning and anticipating a holiday can sustain people through the winter months and the bleak financial times that are upon us."

Meanwhile, budget airline easyJet has reported a 16.6% increase in customers flying to ski destinations.

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