Online travel agent, directline holidays launches a new UK holiday search engine directline-ukholidays.co.uk which offers UK breaks to parks, lodges, cottages, apartments and hotels.

Said Maria Whiteman, CEO of directline holidays “This is the first in a number of steps we are taking to evolve our existing business model in response to predicted demand uncovered by a recent customer survey. Initially the economic climate in 2009 saw many people staying at home and travelling to domestic tourist attractions in order to save money. This trend has spread and Brits are seeking a range of UK accommodation. VisitEngland research found an 18% rise in the number of domestic holidays taken, with travellers spending £1 billion more in 2009 than in the previous year. Incidents such as the ash cloud, increasing fuel prices and a weakening Pound have most likely contributed to this uplift in demand for the so-called staycation. The accommodation we have selected is perfect for families. The prices vary on a property by property basis but the concept was to source a range of rooms that appeal to all budgets.”