A report by ABTA has found that 31% of UK holidaymakers are looking to escape the forecast cold snap, by going on a winter holiday, up 3% on last year.
Forecasters revealed that there is a possible return of the ?Beast from the East? ? the weather system which gripped the UK last winter and brought cold temperatures and heavy snow ? as we head towards the end of January and into February.
According to ABTA Members, the Canary Islands remain the number one destination for British travellers seeking warmer weather this winter, with Tenerife, Lanzarote and Gran Canaria all ranking strongly for bookings. At this time of year, temperatures in the region are often more than three times the average temperature at home, usually reaching between 17-20?C.
The report also noted that Cape Verde, Turkey and Egypt are also proving popular mid-haul destinations, while Jamaica and Mexico are the pick of the long-haul.
Victoria Bacon, ABTA?s director of brand and business development, said: ?As the British winter weather takes hold and the temperature drops, holidaymakers are seizing the opportunity to make an escape to warmer climes. This year is no exception with even more people saying they?ll travel abroad for a fix of winter sun.?
According to ABTA, packages also provide excellent value for money, with 60% of holidaymakers saying they have booked a package because it was the best option for the price, up 3% on the previous year.
Bacon continued: ?If you?re still looking to book a winter break there are plenty of options available, speak to an ABTA Member who can help you choose the best places for a winter sun break and find a holiday which best suits your needs.?
