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Spain bookings soaring as Turkey goes into freefall, says Barrhead

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The capacity squeeze on Spain this summer is being highlighted by Barrhead Travel while bookings to Turkey have gone into freefall.

The agency chain revealed bookings to Turkey – which has been hit by a series of terrorist attacks – have slumped by 58% on this time last year.

By contrast, sales to Spain have soared by 48%

Other European destinations proving popular this year include Bulgaria, up by 22%, Malta up 20%, Portugal up 18% and Italy up 17%.

The independent travel group reported Tenerife as the most-searched-for destination online.

Long-haul destinations are also attracting increased interest with the Bahamas up by 300%, Saint Lucia up 165% and New York up 58%.

Chief executive, Sharon Munro, said: “These figures emphasise just how important it is to book early this year to avoid disappointment.

“We believe the growth in popularity of the western Mediterranean is being driven partly by a drop in demand to traditionally popular destinations like Tunisia and Red Sea destinations.

“More customers also appear to be looking for the wider choice on offer to early bookers.

“Mediterranean countries are also offering lower prices in bars and restaurants, while the pound remains relatively strong too, meaning that these destinations offer extremely good value for money.”

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