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FRENCH HOUSEHOLDS WILL SPEND AN AVERAGE €1,934 ON THEIR HOLIDAYS THIS YEAR – DOWN ON 2007 BUT MORE PLAN ON GOING AWAY. French households will spend an average €1,934 on their holidays this

year – 4% less than 2007. Poll group Ipsos-Europ Assistance has published a study of holiday habits across Europe. The average budget for holidays this year is €2,206. France and Spain are

the only countries to see a reduction in holiday spending this year. Among European countries, Britain sets aside the most for holidays with a budget of €2,584, followed by Austria (€2,426)

and Italy (€2,290). Three quarters of French people questioned said they would go away on holiday this year - above the European average of 67%. The figure is up 9% on last year. 32% of

French said they planned more than one trip on holiday during the year – above the European average of 24%. 63% said they will stay or holiday in France. France shares the top destination

spot with Italy with 18% of Europeans saying they are heading there. Spain is in second place with 16%. Cost is the second factor the French consider when going on holiday, behind climate.

The study involved more than 3,500 people in France, the UK, Germany, Spain, Italy, Belgium and Austria. The Connexion’s 48-page Holidaying in France guide will be available free in selected

tourist offices and airports around the country from July 11. Inside are ideas for trips to all regions of the country throughout the year. Photo: The Connexion/Anne Smellie