Holidays Are A Necessity

An expert has suggested that because people are working so hard, many view taking a holiday as a "necessity".

The spokesperson for the Association of Independent Tour Operators' comments followed a report from Kayak.com which found that 79 per cent of people are feeling financial stretched when booking holidays.

However, rather than a luxury, the expert suggested holidays are increasingly becoming an essential purchase for many.

"People are working longer hours, paying more tax and paying out an awful lot so a holiday is one thing we will take come hell or high water," the spokesperson said.

Although present financial conditions may see people cut back on the number of holidays they take, it is "fair to say that they are still taking their lengthy overseas holiday".

Research by Mintel last year revealed that UK spending on overseas holidays reached £23.8 billion in 2006, representing a 28 per cent increase on the figure recorded in 2002.

Travel Industry News posted on 07/05/2008 08:09:04