Travelzoo survey reveals over a third of British respondents believe the UK should follow France’s lead and deploy similar security measures.
LONDON – Following the announcement from the French government on Wednesday July 27 that beaches in Cannes will be patrolled by armed police, and large bags will be banned from beaches in the area, a survey* from global travel deals publisher Travelzoo reveals over a third of British respondents believe the UK should follow France's lead and deploy similar security measures. The same survey also found just under 90% of those surveyed do not believe increased security measures in place in France and across Europe will have a negative impact on their holiday, and Spain and France remain the preferred destinations for Britons holidaying abroad for the rest of the summer.
Respondents in the Travelzoo survey said they would be prepared to pay extra for increased security on holiday, with 50% prepared to pay at least 5% more and one fifth saying they would pay as much as 10% or 15% more for a 'safer' break.
"Over 17 million British tourists visit France every year so it is extremely important for the country to demonstrate that everything is being done to protect tourists on beaches and in public places," said Louise Hodges, Head of Communications at Travelzoo. "While 24% of those surveyed say armed police on beaches could be off-putting, 33% are in favour of these new security measures, and 50% are prepared to pay extra for more security on holiday. This is significant as, post the June 23 Brexit vote, holidays in Europe this summer will feel more expensive, given the drop in the value of the pound against the euro."
Hodges continued, "Our research shows that long-time favourites Spain and France remain the top destinations for this summer, so it's reassuring to learn that these recent changes in security are not putting British tourists off."
Top countries respondents plan to visit this summer:
1. Spain
=2. France
=2. USA
4. Greece
5. Italy
*Travelzoo's survey was conducted by Atomik Research using an online questionnaire. 1,801 UK consumers completed the survey on July 29, 2016.
Tatiana is the news coordinator for TravelDailyNews Media Network (traveldailynews.gr, traveldailynews.com and traveldailynews.asia). Her role includes monitoring the hundreds of news sources of TravelDailyNews Media Network and skimming the most important according to our strategy.
She holds a Bachelor's degree in Communication & Mass Media from Panteion University of Political & Social Studies of Athens and she has been editor and editor-in-chief in various economic magazines and newspapers.
