Brits still holidaying despite recession

(27 October 2009)

British holidaymakers are still determined to have a summer holiday despite the current economic downturn, according to the latest American Express Global Foreign Exchange Services Currency Index.

Terry Perrin, Director of Trading & Business Development at American Express Global Foreign Exchange Services, said: "Despite the tightening of purse strings up and down the country, Brits were just not prepared to forgo their annual summer holiday", with currency sales during July to September 2009 on par with last year. 

Turkey and Egypt are seeing a dramatic increase in visitors seeking guaranteed sunshine and good value for money outside the euro zone. American Express Global Foreign Exchange Service predicts that they will be top hotspots for 2010.

Long-haul destinations such as Mexico, Thailand, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, the UAE and South Africa have also seen an increase in currency demands compared to last year.