Currency 'to play a part in holiday decisions'

The Association of British Travel Agents (Abta) has predicted that fluctuations in exchange rates, brought on by the global economic downturn, are likely to have an effect on people's destination choices next year.

Abta spokesperson Frances Tuke said that price will continue to be a "major consideration" for travellers, but currency values could be a new factor for consumers to think about.

"We do know that the euro and the dollar rates are going to really affect people's choices about where they go," she said.

Ms Tuke said that the higher cost of the euro for Brits could lead to a rise in tourism within the UK, although the better chance of good weather is likely to see people continuing to travel to European destinations.

"It could be that the UK does clean up slightly next year, but 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 commented.

Ferry travel will offer holidaymakers the chance to save money next year as flights will be made more expensive by the recently announced increase in air passenger duty.

During the summer period, travellers can catch ferry crossings from Britain to the north coast of Spain and also sail between holiday hotspots in the Mediterranean.

Dover - Calais

1 x Foot Passenger(s) Return

Travelling on:

03/06/2012 - 03/06/2012

£13

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Dover - Calais

Car + 2 Return

Travelling on:

11/06/2012 - 11/06/2012

£19

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Dover - Calais

Car + 4 Return

Travelling on:

16/06/2012 - 16/06/2012

£19

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* Prices are "from prices" and are indicative only

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