ABTA - The Travel Association has estimated that 3 million British people will be heading overseas between 17 December and 3 January as part of a great festive getaway.

Christmas and New Year is traditionally one of the peak getaway periods of the year, and, despite the recession, this year will be no different, as just as many people as last year are looking to get away from the stresses and strains of a difficult financial year to relax and have fun with loved ones. 

With early start of ski season, Geneva is the main gateway to the Alps and the top destination for many skiers flying out of the UK. Many will be looking for some winter sun in destinations such as Tenerife, Egypt, Dubai, Turkey and the Caribbean, or taking short New Year breaks to cities such as Paris, Amsterdam, Madrid, Dublin and New York.

“Holidays – especially at this time of year – can provide happy, lifelong memories and an opportunity to spend quality time with family and friends. While passengers booked on BA must be breathing a huge sigh of relief as they can now look forward to their long-planned for holiday, our sympathy goes out to all those affected by the failure of Globespan,” said Mark Tanzer, ABTA Chief Executive.

Travellers heading to Croatia will enjoy various festivities, celebrations and open air events in the country during the festive season.

New Year’s Eve club parties will certainly draw big crowds to Spaladium in Split where Ministry of Sound is throwing a party with DJ Antoine Clamaran, and Visnjik in Zadar where party goers will be entertained by DJ David Morales.

Open air concerts and fireworks will be held across the country with the biggest parties to be held in Zagreb, Rijeka, Split, Opatija and Dubrovnik.