The Olympics? We’d rather go on holiday!

LONDON, England – Only 7% of Brits to attend the London Olympics as homeowners tap in to the potential and rent out their property.

Supporting recent figures released by ABTA, the Travel Association, which showed that 12% of Brits intend to go abroad to avoid the Games, a recent holidaymaker survey conducted by HomeAway.co.uk indicates that only 7% of those interviewed are planning to attend the Olympics and 25% of these still haven’t purchased their tickets for the event.

This year, in spite of the Olympics, Brits are as focused on their beach breaks as ever, with the Balearic Islands and Florida the second and third most popular destinations for holidays in July-August. Although London did remain the top destination, it is usually within the top three for summer most years.

Andy Cockburn, Regional Director for HomeAway UK, comments, “It looks like many Londoners will be trying to escape the crowds this summer by jetting off on holiday during the event. However, demand for London accommodation is still strong as international tourists from around the globe flock to our shores. Enquiries on HomeAway.co.uk are up 695% for London properties this summer compared to last year. Many home owners are also tapping into the rental potential of the event and renting out their property while they go away.”

On HomeAway.co.uk the top ten source markets for London booking enquiries for July and August 2012 are the USA, UK, Netherlands, Germany, Australia, France, Italy, Spain, Canada and Belgium.

Top 5 destinations for holidays in July-August 2012***

1. London
2. Balearic Islands
3. Florida
4. Andalusia
5. Alicante – Costa Blanca