Making More Of Euro Money

Online, October 15, 2012 (Newswire.com) - British holidaymakers are more likely to book a European break this year with 56 per cent of us having changed, or planning to change, our behaviour as a result of the strengthening Pound versus the Euro.

The survey, commissioned by Superbreak, found that when it comes to counting the pennies, men appeared more savvy than women; 20 per cent more men were aware of the stronger exchange rate with an additional 13 per cent planning to change their behaviour as a result. Conversely, ten per cent more men pay for a holiday by credit card, with women opting to save up and pay by cash.

On average, the survey found that it takes 6-12 months to save for a week long holiday and 1-3 months for a short break, except for pensioners, who lead the way in holiday spontaneity with more than a third of over-65s stating they could go on a short break without any notice at all.

Culture is the biggest pull, closely followed by famous landmarks, when choosing a short break destination with 44 per cent of respondents looking for places to see and visit. In contrast to the priorities for a longer holiday, weather only rated as the sixth most important factor when choosing to spend a few days away.

1. Culture
2. Famous landmarks
3. Ease and duration of travel
4. Food and drink
5. Feel of place
6. Weather
7. Shopping

The most popular destination for a European short break was Paris, with half of respondents choosing either the capital (27%) or Disneyland (23%). Perhaps living up to stereotypes, the most popular destination amongst men was Amsterdam.

A third of Britons list French food and wine as the most attractive aspects of a holiday to France and on arrival, over half of us choose to spend our holiday money on tasty treats, with 54 per cent of the budget going on eating and drinking, above entrance fees (27%) and souvenirs (4%).

Jane Atkins at Superbreak said: "In recent years, many have considered Europe as being too expensive for many to consider for just a few days away, but with the current strength of the Pound, there has never been a better time to go. The majority of us are still looking to save up, rather than put on the credit card, but as prices lower, a short break can be taken with just a few months' notice.

"We are so lucky in the UK to have a host of destinations within just a few hours, with rail links making Europe really accessible , even for those not on the south coast. Interestingly, only 35 per cent of Brits have travelled by Eurostar, despite it being 18 years old, although 47 per cent said they would like to in the future."

Superbreak Eurostar Breaks are the ideal way to explore some of the best European city break destinations including Paris, Disneyland Paris, Lille, Brussels, Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp and Ostend. Travelling from London on any one of our Eurostar City Breaks is simple, convenient and great value for money, plus there is complete flexibility to combine with rail travel from your local station.

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For more information, images and packages available, please contact Katie, Naomi, Steve or Tamarind on 0113 243 1117 or email Superbreak@lucre.co.uk

Notes to Editors

With more than five million people visiting Superbreak.com each year, millions of couples, single travellers, families and friends rely on Superbreak to book their short break. Whether it's a Eurostar trip for a European city break, a London theatre weekend, attraction tickets for the family, or simply in need of somewhere to rest your head for the night, Superbreak has the selection you want at a price you can afford.

With 30 years of travel experience, Superbreak has a reputation for providing excellent quality and customer service. Both ATOL and ABTA bonded for peace of mind, Superbreak is a reliable brand trusted by travel agents and customers.

For more information, please visit the Superbreak website / 0871 700 4384