Almost two million Brits departed for sunnier climes over the wet and windy Bank Holiday weekend, according to estimates from the Association of British Travel Agents (Abta).
Florida was the favourite destination for long-haul holidaymakers, while the Canary and Balearic islands were among the most popular shorter journeys. Along with Spain, Italy and Croatia, the early summer weather in Egypt and Greece also proved alluring.
A number of travellers opted for a city break over the long weekend, the most popular capitals being Paris, Amsterdam, Dublin, Rome and Prague.
Most flew to their destinations, but ferry terminals and the Eurostar were also busy.
London’s Heathrow Airport launched around 400,000 Bank Holiday holidaymakers, while 240,000 flew from Gatwick, 150,000 from Stansted and 60,000 from Luton. An additional 160,000 used Manchester Airport and 120,000 departed from Birmingham.
An estimated 75,000 also used Nottingham East Midlands, Leeds Bradford and Southampton airports.
Justin Fleming, president of Abta, explained the Bank Holiday rush. “May is one of the nicest times of year to travel with cheaper prices and bearable temperatures,” he said.
Most Brits staying at home were not impressed by the temperatures, however, as unseasonably wintry weather lashed the UK.
Travel insuranceis always recommended for all travellers, however brief the trip.
Contributed by J.Bevan
