Easter sales soar as Brits take flight abroad

The Great British Easter getaway is in full swing this week and according to leading tour operators Thomson and First Choice it’s going to be a busy one, as holidaymakers rush to escape the gloom and book a holiday in the sun.

They report that bookings for the Easter holidays have been very strong, and with limited availability for those hoping for a last minute deal over the next week.

Top of the Easter holiday hotspots this year are the Canaries, Spain, the Caribbean and Egypt where temperatures are expected to reach a steamy 28 degrees in Sharm El Sheikh over the holiday week.

Tim Williamson, customer director for Thomson and First Choice, said; “The combination of the coldest winter for ten years, and the chilly economic climate has led to millions of Brits to pack their bags and take a well earned holiday in the sun.

“Our customers have told us that they regard their annual holiday as a necessity rather than a luxury, and that despite the difficult financial climate, they are still determined to travel. The summer holidays are likely to be equally as busy as Easter, and with fewer holidays on sales this year I would urge anyone who is planning a peak season summer holiday to book now or they may be disappointed.

“However, whether you want a family holiday, or a holiday with your partner in May or June, there will still be plenty of early season bargains available, so those who are able to be flexible with travel dates and destination might still be able to bag a good deal.”

Great deals for May and June include:

Lanzarote – Hotel Natura Palace

The Hotel Natura Palace is a glamorous playground with sun terraces, whirlpools and a decadent spa. A diving school is on-hand for the adventurous, while show-cooking and a weekly gala dinner can be enjoyed by gourmet guests. Set in a quiet spot along Playa Blanca’s seafront promenade, with the town centre and beach just a short walk away, there’s something for everyone at this modern resort.

Thomson offers seven night holidays in Lanzarote, staying at the 4T Hotel Natura Palace on a half board basis from £479 per adult based on two sharing. Departing on 4th June 2009 from London Gatwick airport, the price includes accommodation, return flights, transfers and taxes and charges. To book visit thomson.co.uk.

Mediterranean Spirit Cruise

Thomson Cruises offers seven nights on the Mediterranean Spirit cruise onboard the Island Escape from £641 per person (saving £185 pp on brochure price). Departing from Palma on the 5th May 2009, the cruise takes in Trapani, Naples, Livorno (for Florence and Pisa), Cannes and Barcelona before sailing back to Palma. The price is based on two adults sharing a deck 7 or 9 inside cabin on a full board basis, with return flights from London Gatwick or Stansted, resort transfers and all taxes and charges. For more information or to book visit thomson.co.uk/cruise.

Coral Sea Resort

Popular with families, there's plenty to do at the Coral Sea Resort in Egypt. Fabulous pools, all complete with a swim-up bar, lead you towards the sands of Nabq Bay. Pre-bookable dive packages are available for kids and grown-ups, and the friendly entertainment team are always around to keep you smiling.

First Choice offers seven night family holidays in Egypt, staying all-inclusive at the 4 Sun Coral Sea resort from £2270 total for a family of four, based on two adults and two children sharing, departing from London Gatwick on the 25th May 2009. To find out more about this holiday, or to make a reservation, log on to firstchoice.co.uk.