Brits encouraged to research holidays at home

Following this morning’s announcement that BAA’s profits have been dented by falling passenger numbers, stay-at-home Britons are being encouraged to visit the Best of Britain & Ireland 2009, a celebration of everything that the domestic tourism industry has to offer, for inspirational ideas for holidaying in the UK and Ireland.

Passenger numbers passing through BAA’s seven UK airports slid 2.8% to 145.8 million last year, suggesting that fewer Brits are choosing to travel overseas as the pound remains weak against the Euro and other currencies.

Recent research released by VisitBritain and Visit London into holiday trends in the current economic climate shows that around 20 per cent of those that took a foreign holiday last year plan to travel domestically in 2009 to save money, and that the level of time spent researching to get the best deal will increase significantly. The research showed that the number of Britons currently considering holidaying domestically works out at 4.9 million.

The research also shows that over half of those intending to cut back on spending on UK breaks will do so by looking harder for special offers on the market or by increasing the amount of time they take planning their trip. Best of Britain & Ireland, a brand new consumer event showcasing the best of holidaying in England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales, is the ideal place to research domestic holidays. Organised in partnership with VisitBritain, the event takes place on 28 and 29 March 2009 at London’s ExCeL Centre.

For the first time under one roof, the holiday experience in Britain and Ireland will be brought to life with a host of interactive displays, tastings, exhibitions, live performances and demonstrations highlighting the best of the tourism product from all areas of the country.

Rob Mackenzie, Co-Managing Director of the Best of Britain & Ireland, commented: “All the evidence is pointing towards the fact that the UK holidaymaking public is turning its back on European breaks and thinking about domestic holidays with greater vigour than ever before. With this enhanced appetite for staying at home, the Best of Britain & Ireland presents the perfect opportunity for visitors to learn more about the fantastic holiday experience available right on their doorstep.”

Forming the culmination of British Tourism Week (23 – 29 March), the event will be an exciting weekend featuring hotels, food, activities, walks, scenery, attractions, and of course the personalities behind them, from all the regions of Britain and Ireland. Visitors will be able to plan their trip according to their interest, with dynamic themes such as Active, Coastal, Countryside, Flavours, Heritage and Luxury, guaranteeing that they come away armed with inspirational holiday ideas.

Tickets to Best of Britain & Ireland start from £10 and can be booked online at Britainandirelandevent.co.uk.