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19 October 2012 09:24
Improved exchange rates boosted British travellers' spending power in the Eurozone
Struggling shops and restaurants in Spain and Greece enjoyed a Brit-led spending boom this summer as better exchange rates boosted UK tourists' Eurozone purchasing power, according to research.
A study by My Travel Cash Prepaid Mastercard found Britons' spending power jumped 35% with half the transactions made in local restaurants and independent shops abroad. UK travellers also exchanged £350,000 more, giving them a holiday budget 15% bigger than it was in 2011. With £500 now buying 608 euro compared to 547 euro a year ago holidaymakers planning an autumn half-term break in Europe will also see their money go further. And the company behind the study said the trend was set to continue into the winter months, ensuring travellers have plenty of funds for essential travel insurance.
Its founder and managing director Myles Stephenson said forecasts a strong pound would benefit British travellers had proved correct. He added: "What was less reported on but is still a valid point, is the contribution our holiday spends make to the economies of the countries we visited, especially those who have been struggling, for example Spain and Greece."
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