UK tourism is set for a massive boost after London beat Paris in the race to host the 2012 Olympic Games.
ABTA claims many sports enthusiasts will book years in advance with many wanting to arrive before the games start or stay on and visit other parts of the country.
The games should help improve London’s standing as one of the top city-break destinations in Europe. Currently, 12 million overseas visitors come to the city every year.
Almost 28 million people visit the UK every year and ABTA claims the Olympics will provide a further boost to numbers.
ABTA president Martin Wellings said the Olympics is the perfect showcase for London. He cited recent Olympic hosts Sydney and Barcelona as examples of how the Olympics can be used to boost tourism.
“The 2012 Olympics will provide a welcome shot in the arm for the UK tourism industry,” he said.