British holidaymakers are much more likely to head abroad for their holidays this year,

British holidaymakers are much more likely to head abroad for their holidays this year, with the unreliable weather leading to a decline in so-called 'staycations'.

According to figures released by the Office for National Statistics yesterday (12 June) the number of Brits travelling abroad during the first three months of the year rose by 4% in 2011.

France is one of the key destinations likely to see a boost in hotel bookings as a result of this trend, as a recent survey by the Co-operative Travel found that French holidays are 31% more popular this year.

Natalie Goulet, spokeswoman for the France tourism development agency Atout France, said that this was not surprising as the country offers 'good value for money'.

'City breaks and short breaks continue to be strong… France [is] well positioned with its proximity and wide choice of transport options and direct links from the UK,' she said.

Ms Goulet added that Provence, Rhone-Alps, Normandy, Brittany and the Atlantic coast are all likely to be highly popular regions this summer.

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