Spain tops family holidays poll

Spain is the number one family-friendly holiday destination for Britons, according to a survey today by travel organisation Abta.

Spain was particularly popular with 35 to 44-year-olds while the UK, which was second to Spain as a family favourite, had the most appeal to those aged over 55.

Theme parks and hospitality took the USA into third place in the family favourites list, followed by France, Greece and Italy.

The findings came from a survey of more than 2,000 consumers released today at the annual Abta convention in Palma, Majorca.

Abta chief executive Mark Tanzer said: "For many years Spain has been our favourite overseas holiday spot. One of the main reasons for this has been the amazing welcome and facilities that Spain and its people offer to families."

Spanish Tourist Office director Ignacio Vasallo said: "We are delighted to see that even in tough times families continue to see Spain as their preferred holiday destination."

The top 10 family-friendly destinations were:

1. Spain

2. UK

3. USA

4. France

5. Greece

6. Italy

7. Turkey

8. Cyprus

9. Portugal

10. Australia

PA