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03 January 2017 09:11
County Kerry in Ireland is fast becoming a popular tourist destination
A positive outlook for the UK travel industry is being tempered by uncertainty over the economy, according to a new report.
Travel trade organisation Abta predicted that currency fluctuations caused by Brexit negotiations could influence holiday decisions in 2017.
It also expects capacity challenges to continue, with strong demand for breaks in the western Mediterranean.
2016 has been 'challenging' for industry
Survey firm GfK has reported that by the end of November holiday bookings for next summer had increased 11% compared with the same point last year.
Almost a quarter of the population (24%) plan to spend more on holidays next year, new research by Abta reveals.
Abta chief executive Mark Tanzer said: "As we reflect on a challenging but successful year for the travel industry and look at the prospects for 2017, there are encouraging signs pointing towards a positive outlook for next year.
"However, when there is so much volatility and uncertainty in our economy, it is difficult to predict what is going to happen to bookings next year, and Brexit negotiations will certainly impact the travel industry."
More travellers choose Ireland for holiday destination
Abta's Travel Trends Report identifies a dozen "destinations to watch" in 2017, including County Kerry in Ireland.
It stated: "The intense greens of the landscape, the tranquil beauty of its lakes, soaring mountains, sweeping golden sands and dramatic sea cliffs, once seen are never to be forgotten."
The area has also been used as a filming location in the latest Star Wars movie.
City breaks and Micro-adventures are also said to be the among most popular holidays according to Abta.
Before any journey, you should take out travel insurance to protect against any problems you may have along the way.
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