Italy is popular with UK holidaymakers

Thursday September 20th , 2007

Italy has become the most popular European holiday destination among British tourists, according to a new survey.

Research by Saga Holidays found that the country had overtaken Spain in term of its popularity among holidaymakers from the UK, which could potentially boost its status as an investment hotspot.

The study also showed that Italy was also a common choice of holiday destination among people of various age groups, as the favoured option among both 25 to 44-year-olds and those aged over 55.

However, Spain was found to be the main choice for tourists aged between 18 and 24 years old.

Andrew Goodsell, chief executive of Saga Group, said it was good to see that traditional European destinations were popular among people of all ages.

He added: "It's interesting to note that Italy has now overtaken Spain at the top of the holiday charts."

Earlier this month, the Association of British Travel Agents predicted that many people would fly abroad to warmer destinations during the Christmas holiday to escape from the British winter.