European travellers 'planning more holidays in 2010'

European ferry services could prove increasingly popular in 2010, with many travellers across the continent reportedly planning to take more breaks than this year.

Online information provider Travelzoo surveyed its subscribers in the UK, Germany, France and Spain and found that 42 per cent are planning to take more holidays next year, while 25 per cent are intending to travel the same amount.

Respondents in the UK were the most optimistic about their plans, with over half (55 per cent) saying they will be taking more breaks in 2010.

Ferries to Spain could prove a popular option from the ports of Portsmouth and Plymouth, with the European country found to be the leading holiday destination among Britons.

Joel Brandon-Bravo, managing director of Travelzoo UK, said: "We are very pleased to see that our UK subscribers are upbeat about their plans for 2010.

"Our subscribers clearly see travel as a 'must do' element of their lives. This is encouraging news for the British travel industry as we prepare for peak booking season."

People interested in visiting Spain next year can take ferries to Bilbao from Portsmouth with P&O Ferries or choose from the Santander ferry services provided by Brittany Ferries from Portsmouth and Plymouth.

British travellers can also catch ferries to France, Holland, Belgium, Ireland and Denmark.

Posted by Andrew Smith