Short breaks abroad 'could be sacrificed'

A spokesman for VisitBritain has suggested that the short overseas break could be the holiday type that is sacrificed by travellers trying to save money, with many people opting for ferry trips and other excursions within the UK.

One of the major factors in this potential trend is the exchange rate, which recently saw the pound fall to a record low against the euro.

Elliot Frisby, press and PR manager for VisitBritain, said that exchange rates are now "a key aspect" to consider for many travellers.

Commenting on the effects of the economic situation as a whole, Mr Frisby said: "Short breaks abroad are the holiday type most likely to be sacrificed altogether, largely because of the economic downturn. Fewer people will feel the need to cut out their UK breaks and holidays.

"This is a challenging time as there is a widespread desire to save money but we do believe it is going to be small and regular purchases."

The VisitBritain spokesman said that the British destinations likely to benefit from this trend include the ferry port of Liverpool, which is a popular city in itself but also offers access to Belfast and Dublin.

Mr Frisby also pointed out that London "has always been popular", along with picturesque regions such as the Lake District and the southern Cotswolds.