Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 09:00 - 17:30
Coronavirus FAQs
Questions about Coronavirus? Click here for more information. Please note that due to exceptional circumstances our opening hours are currently 09:00 to 17:30 Monday to Friday. Please contact us to amend your dates or cancel your policy.
04 November 2013 09:22
The overseas holiday market is showing signs of improvement
The holiday market has been buoyed on the back of rising consumer confidence, a new survey suggests.
In March this year, 13% believed the economy was about to improve, while today that figure stands at 26%, polls by foreign currency company First Rate Exchange Services show.
At the same time, the number of those who thought the economy would not get better has dropped from more than half to 30%.
A survey of 5,194 people revealed that 40% of those with intentions to get away had now committed to a holiday with a booking, and around a fifth have booked a second trip. This proportion of people would be well advised to look into travel insurance to cover any unexpected mishaps before or during their break.
More than 50% of the would-be holidaymakers expect to travel overseas next year, with a fifth of bookings made for the summer period.
The data, conducted by First Rate in association with the Institute of Travel & Tourism, the University of Wolverhampton and YouGov, showed just 14% are planning to cut their holidays abroad, compared with 18% in March.
First Rate Exchange Services business decisions head Alistair Rennie said: "The new index reveals a growing stability for the overseas holiday market."
However, households still remain cautious, with more than half of those questioned admitting to not wanting their holiday spend to go above that of 2012.
Mr Rennie added: "Given the relative optimism about economic recovery expressed by respondents, there is good reason to be cautiously positive about the outlook for the coming year."
Nine in 10 have settled on a destination, with the eurozone proving a popular choice, and of those not planning a getaway; 13% blame a lack of time, while 74% said that a holiday comes lower down in their financial priorities.
09 March 2020
Move over hot cross buns and chocolate eggs, there's a whole world of Easter treats out there. Here are some alternative Easter foods from around the world.
[more...]
Forget egg hunts and bunnies, Easter's done a little bit differently in these corners of the world. Here five alternative Easter celebrations.
28 February 2020
Keep your carbon footprint in check and travel green with our eco-friendly travel tips.
25 February 2020
For true carefree travel, decide on a destination that's kinder to the planet...
20 February 2020
Travel into the future and not just through time-zones, with destinations shaping urban living.
National Anthem Day falls on the 3rd March, so what better excuse is there to delve into into the world of music and motherland?
Discover five alternative places to get down on one knee this leap year.
Two-wheels are better than none. Check out our favourite cities best explored from a saddle.
04 February 2020
Make your phone the perfect travel companion for the new year...
Bohemian boulevards and ornate opera houses await away from the Six Nations action.
Kite Flying Day falls on 8th February. What better time is there to plan your next trip through the skies?
10 February 2020
With Ferris Wheel Day on 14th February, there's never been a better excuse to enjoy a foreign skyline.