Schools are out in the United Kingdom and, as the Bulletin reported this week, the country is going on holiday. Over two million Britons are due to travel abroad this weekend, with Spain still the top destination and bookings to Majorca having surged by 20 per cent since the World Cup ended, according to Abta.
The England team performed better than many people anticipated in Russia and thousands of fans delayed their holiday plans. However, the travel industry knows from past experience that once England's involvement in a major tournament comes to an end, thoughts quickly turn to booking a holiday.
With very high temperatures in the UK over the last few weeks forecast to drop, returning to more average levels for this time of year, more people are now expected to look for a last-minute overseas break. Holidaymakers will still find guaranteed sunshine in their favourite Mediterranean holiday destinations.
Victoria Bacon, director of brand and business development at Abta, says: "The England team did the country proud with its performances at the World Cup. Understandably, many football fans preferred to stay at home and follow the team with friends and family, but now people’s attention will turn to their summer holiday.
"There are still some great deals to be had. They won't last for long, so anyone wishing to head off on holiday should book sooner rather than later." Abta estimates that a record 2.5 million British holidaymakers are set to head overseas for summer holidays this weekend.
Spain, in particular Majorca, remains the number one destination for families, but Abta members are also reporting strong growth to Turkey, Egypt, Greece, Bulgaria and Croatia.
