Haven urges “plan ahead for best 2009 holiday prices”

Haven Holidays are reporting an upsurge in bookings for the 2009 season with more people than ever before taking the option of securing a holiday for next year at this summer’s prices.

The offer is available on any date at any of Haven’s 35 family holiday parks around the UK – you just need to pay a non refundable deposit of £50 or 10% of the cost of the holiday – whichever is greater.

Some of the most popular Haven parks are reporting increases of more than 40% on advance sales for next year. Bookings for 2009 at Church Farm, near Chichester have shown an increase of a massive 43% compared to this time last year. Seton Sands near Edinburgh is 34% ahead with many parks happy to report sales for 2009 currently in excess of 20% ahead of previous years.

“This year more people have recognised the benefits of staying in the UK,” say Haven. “The credit crunch has made families think twice about going abroad – you get much more holiday for your money if you book a British break. Now people are discovering how much fun they can have without jetting off overseas and they are opting to do it again next year ….and securing the best possible price deal.”

A short spring break in 2009 can be booked from as little as £99 for a family of four – but Haven are also reporting an increase in longer holidays. They say “Traditionally our holidaymakers book short breaks in Spring and Autumn and a week in the peak Summer season – but this year we’ve seen a trend towards the traditional British fortnight. We have more two week holidays booked for 2009 than ever before.”

So what’s tempting more people to stay for longer? “Improved accommodation, excellent facilities and sheer good value for money,” say Haven. Last winter they invested over £40 million in their venues, outdoor terraces, landscaping, Adventure Golf courses, Starbucks coffee shops, a new Spa at Rockley Park and other facilities – including introducing the super-smart ‘Platinum’ range of accommodation. And they offer a full package of daytime and evening entertainment, kid’s clubs, sports and activities – most of which are free of charge to holidaymakers.

With a choice of 35 holiday parks around the UK they are also very accessible – what’s more the parks make an excellent base for enjoying the local beaches, resorts and attractions.

If you’re already planning ahead for next year – or would like to grab a last minute September break at a choice of parks around the UK from as little as £149 for a family of four in standard self-catering accommodation, log on to Haven.com.