British holidaymakers have turned their backs on the slopes instead preferring a trip Down Under for their winter break, according to a new report released this week.
Compiled by Barclays Travel Insurance the study reveals cities in Australia recorded a huge increase in bringing tourists in from the UK, with millions preferring to follow the national cricket team playing the Ashes series, rather than embark on a European skiing holiday .
Australia’s two main cities, Melbourne and Sydney have recorded an increase in British travellers, with Sydney having a 25 per cent increase, while Melbourne welcomed 140 per cent more tourists than last year.
The report also showed UK tourists flocking to other destinations for a winter getaway including Hong Kong and Phuket in Thailand .
However European ski resorts such as Meribel and Chamonix have had a decrease in tourist numbers by up to 18 per cent year-on-year, figures showed.
During the winter period British tourists headed to five destinations more than any other, which were Paris, Sydney, Dublin, New York and Dubai . Britons spend the most cash in Las Vegas, followed by Verbier and Phuket, an average spending of around £400 each.
Mark Till, marketing director at Barclays Insurance, comments, "Long-haul breaks seem to be becoming increasingly popular with British holidaymakers over the Christmas and New Year period. Flights are getting cheaper and Brits are prepared to trek further for the chance of some proper winter sunshine."
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Increase In Brits Heading Down Under For Winter Break Fri, 26 Jan 2007      Recommended linksFind great deals on travel insuranceSkiing holidays Find a winter holiday 2007 Set For Rise In Holidays By Brits The Billions Brits Spend On Holidays |
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