Sun lovers in surge for bargain breaks

HOLIDAY hunters will spark a stampede for bargain getaways today as firms slash summer deal prices.

Families can save hundreds on trips to the Continent while those travelling further afield will benefit from a boost in the value of sterling.

The cost of sunshine holidays to Spain, the Canary Islands, Greece and Turkey have all nosedived.

Holidays are up to £200 cheaper than before Christmas and some offer free children’s places.

Sean Tipton, of travel association ABTA, said: “Travel companies put out some of their best summer holiday deals at this time.

“Free child places can mean savings of hundreds of pounds.”

Thomas Cook has slashed a seven-night holiday for four to Lanzarote in May from £693 to £500. A week-long stay in Mellieha Bay, Malta, is £593, down from £718, seven nights in Tenerife is £688 from £826 and seven nights at Lara Beach in Antalya, Turkey, in June is £493, from £564.

Dubai is currently the cheapest long-haul beach destination with a week’s holiday averaging just over £1,000 per person, according to the Post Office.

And until January 5, Virgin Holidays is offering an eight-night stay for two in the Gulf state’s Ras Al Khaimah for £749 per person.

Online holiday searches are expected to peak this evening, with analysts predicting a surge over the next couple of days.