British travel insiders are rubbing their hands with glee ahead of the Easter holidays, with sunny weather across the UK boosting expectations for domestic operators. Overseas trips are also expecting a boom; with many savvy travellers realising that by booking three days leave they could have an eleven day break from work.

John Penrose MP, the Minister for Tourism, visited ABTA’s office yesterday to hear the concerns of the industry firsthand at a specially convened meeting of senior industry representatives.

ABTA is calling on its members to seize the business opportunity presented by sustainability as delegates gather for the annual World Travel Market in London. Following its latest Consumer Trends survey, the trade body argues half of customers believe their travel company should ensure that they are helping the local people and economy.

ABTA is encouraging customers travelling to the USA to apply online for their ESTA before charges of $14 per person come in on 8 September.

ABTA has branded a decision by the United States government to introduce further fees to visitors as “odd”. From September all guests wishing to visit the US will have to apply online for an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation – at a cost of $14 per person.

ABTA the Travel Association is calling on the Government to include all sections of the travel trade, which incurred costs due to the recent volcanic ash clouds, in any future compensation package.