Weak pound means holidaying at home is the best bargain

With the pound reaching an all time low against the Euro in December, the UK holidaymaking public may be turning its back on European breaks and thinking about domestic breaks with greater vigour than ever before.

Research released this week 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 already 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.

Research 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 celebrating 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 showcasing the best of the tourism product from all areas of the country.

Forming the culmination of British Tourism Week (23 – 29 March), it 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.

Angie Watson, Director of Best of Britain & Ireland, said: “With the emphasis on economic and environmental concerns, 2009 is going to be an important year for domestic tourism and so we’re excited to be launching this brand new event at time when holidaying at home could not be more relevant. We promise not only a fun, interactive day out for visitors of all ages, but also an informative day, so consumers can learn more about the fantastic holiday experience available right on their doorstep.”

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