Head east for this year's bargains

ABTA is encouraging those travellers looking for the best value to consider Central and Eastern Europe among their holiday plans for 2009.

In the wake of the tumbling value of the pound, many of the stereotypical hotspots for British travellers are being priced out of the market by the cheaper options of the farther reaches of Europe.

Apart from price, countries including Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia are providing a welcome surprise to recession-hit Brits.

Their historic cities, unspoilt beaches and dramatic countryside are offering more than a match for more popular destinations, while the welcoming climate and cosmopolitan nature of the cities create an unforgettable holiday experience.

The advice from ABTA echoes the results of a recent survey carried out by Holiday Extras. The UK's leading provider of travel add-ons asked customers of their travel plans for 2009. The results returned showed that 48% were looking to 'do something totally different and really memorable", while 31% are looking to discover a new destination.

Wherever you are looking to travel, holidaymakers flying abroad should remember to book their airport parking and airport hotels with Holiday Extras.