British Holidaymakers Return To Their Old Haunts

Keeping one eye on their bank balances when deciding upon a vacation during the economic slowdown, there has been a drift among the British public who take holidays abroad to move away from their traditional favourite destinations like Spain and the Spanish islands like Menorca to try new cheaper areas like Turkey, Egypt and Morocco.

The reason for the move away from Spain and other traditionally favoured British areas of Europe isn't because those areas are not good holiday areas anymore - but simply because of economics.

The British currency - sterling - has declined in value against the currency most countries favoured by the British for their holidays, including Spain - the Euro. It has pushed up the cost of a family holiday quite a bit, to the extent where destinations not using the Euro have become popular. Turkey, Egypt and Morocco are the three top ones.

But there are signs from travel agent polls and data showing that the British are returning to their old haunts in increasing numbers, and that Spain and family friendly islands like Menorca are coming back into favour.

However, although the percentage of the overall market might be swinging back in favour of traditional holiday areas, huge problems remain for their travel industries as the number of people taking holidays this year has dropped dramatically because of the recession.

Media reports indicate different drops for different locations, for example Cyprus is thought to be experiencing a ten per cent drop in tourist numbers, while the number of people taking holidays in Menorca is thought to be similar.

The good news for those who do visit Cyprus and Menorca is that even in the peak summer months the islands won't be crowded and the hotels in Menorca will be able to offer accommodation, it will be easy to get seats at restaurants, and room for the whole family to stretch out and enjoy themselves on the beach - it could be a great year to visit, but what else will they find in Menorca for example, apart from less holidaymakers?

Menorca is a virtual treasure-trove of ecological gems. Tourism is a staple of Menorca's economy. Overall before the latest recession visitor numbers had increased dramatically since the 1960s. Despite this, the island has remained relatively unspoiled. It is home to one of the world's most unique protected wet zones.

The wet zone, located in the northern part of the island, is home to a number of indigenous species of birds and wildlife. It also boasts plant life that cannot be found anywhere else.

Mediterranean food has always been a tourist draw. Visitors will find good food at most any restaurant on Menorca. The island is known for traditional Spanish-influenced dishes, as well as cuisine unique to the Balearics.

Those who enjoy water sports in addition to golf can enjoy some of the world's best. Menorca's most popular include swimming, sailing, scuba diving and snorkeling. Boat tours are available on many of Menorca's beaches.

If the economic outlook improves, Menorca will hope that the trend back to traditional favourite holiday areas will continue through to 2010.

For those considering a holiday in Minorca there is for new visitors a Minorca map at yourmenorca.net

They also have travel and news information