European breaks 'still popular for Valentine's Day'

Ferry breaks and other trips to Europe will still prove popular for Valentine's Day this year, despite the low value of the pound against the euro, according to the Association of British Travel Agents (Abta).

Couples have reportedly been booking holidays to less mainstream European destinations such as Antwerp in Belgium to make their money go further.

Abta spokesperson Casia Zajac said that romantic travellers are interested in visiting places that are "new and exciting" but also offer value for money.

She added: "It's not surprising that cities such as Budapest and Antwerp are proving popular as we keep a tighter grip on the purse strings. They have intriguing histories and a frisson for the perfect romantic adventure."

Abta suggested that Antwerp, which can be reached by taking cheap ferries to Zeebrugge or Ostend, has the appeal to rival Paris or Copenhagen without their high prices.

The association also identified the ferry port of Liverpool, served by operators including P&O Ferries and Norfolkline, as an affordable alternative to London.

A good way to keep costs down on a visit to Europe, according to Abta, is to book an inclusive holiday deal, with many packages available that combine ferry travel and accommodation in cities on the continent.

Hull - Zeebrugge

1 x Foot Passenger(s) Return

Travelling on:

04/06/2012 - 04/06/2012

£119

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Ramsgate - Ostend

Car + 2 Return

Travelling on:

01/11/2012 - 02/11/2012

£42

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Ramsgate - Ostend

Car + 4 Return

Travelling on:

01/11/2012 - 02/11/2012

£42

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* Prices are "from prices" and are indicative only

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