Online travel agent Directline Holidays (www.directline-holidays.com ) reports a surge in bookings to Tunisia over the past week resulting in a 16% increase on the same week last year. CEO Maria Whiteman said: “Travellers undertake careful research before booking a holiday so they know that, in the case of Tunisia, the coastal resorts remain safe and are unaffected by the events in the capital Tunis and near the Algerian border which have been widely reported over recent days. Thousands of Tunisians depend upon tourism for their livelihoods and the feedback from our customers is that the country remains open for business: it is as hospitable and enjoyable as ever. The surge in recent bookings is attributable to great value holidays, especially all-inclusive packages, and the resilience of UK holidaymakers determined to enjoy their summer.”

She added: “We always adhere to, and recommend our customers to follow, all advice issued by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office regarding where it is safe to travel. Current advisories do not mention the popular coastal tourist resorts.”