Consumers ditch foreign holidays in favour of British summer
After a freezing winter and more than just the odd April shower, Britain is finally basking in sunshine, with temperatures rivalling those of the Mediterranean.
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But while we Brits are lapping up the summer weather, the travel industry is feeling the heat. According to the Daily Telegraph, online bookings for summer holidays abroad fell by more than 20 per cent in the last week alone.
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And with the hot weather rumoured to be sticking around for a while, things aren't looking good for the travel agents.
After last year's Olympics, which saw many Brits stay at home for the summer, travel agencies had hoped things would pick up in 2013, but the heatwave has caused many families to ditch their foreign holiday plans and save cash with a staycation.
Steve Endacott, of On Holiday Group, told the Telegraph: "To be honest few of us saw this coming, having expected a decent late bookings market without the distractions of European football tournaments, the London Olympics or royal weddings.
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"Unfortunately my personal conclusion is that it will probably last as long as the heatwave does, and rather than delaying the booking decision, it may be simply removing customers from the market."
The retail industry, however, is enjoying the sunny spell with sales of charcoal, sunscreen and paddling pools soaring as Brits finally get real barbecue weather.
What do you think? Has the good weather in Britain caused you to change your holiday plans? Leave your comments below...
