Uncertainty about holidays abroad could mean boost for Devon tourism

Tourists worried about booking flights for holidays abroad this summer could bring a welcome boost for Devon tourism, according to Visit Devon. The voice of tourism in the county, Visit Devon says that the combination of the travel crisis caused by the Icelandic volcanic ash cloud and the current good weather in Devon has led to an increase in bookings for self- catering and hotel accommodation. Many businesses are reporting an increase in bookings of up to 70 percent, however Visit Devon also acknowledges that the business tourism sector has suffered some losses and cancellations. The General Manager of Visit Devon Rosie Bates believes that despite the recent difficulties for some businesses the outlook for the tourism market in Devon is positive. : “Although bookings are down in the business and conference sector, the tourist sector has benefited from uncertainty about travelling abroad and the good weather has definitely also helped. Bookings are up and we are very optimistic about the summer holiday trade.” Devon is easily accessible by rail or road which has proved attractive to many British tourists put off by flying abroad and who feel reassured that they will be able to return home safely following a relaxing break at some of the county’s outstanding accommodation and attractions. The domestic tourism market is worth £2 billion a year to the local Devon economy, with tourism employing 13 per cent of the work force in the county. An increase in this market would help offset recent losses caused by the current travel crisis. Rosie Bates says that tourists who have lost holidays because of flight cancellations could find an answer to their tourism nightmare by coming to holiday in Devon; “Anyone upset by losing a holiday should look at our Visit Devon website www.visitdevon.co.uk where they will find some great last minute deals on accommodation and plenty of ideas about exciting things to do whatever the weather. We have fantastic festivals and events like the Devon County Show in May, the Gold Coast Ocean Festival in June and a whole Summer of Fun taking place in the months of July and August. Added to this Devon has world beating food and restaurants to enjoy. And in Devon you don’t have to worry about the cost of the Euro!”

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