An expert on tourism has predicted that short-distance holidays on the continent could be particularly popular in 2009, something that could make Europe the best place for overseas property buyers to invest.

Graham McKenzie, managing director of tourism website TravelMole, said that with the recession restricting incomes, a lot of travellers will abandon thoughts of long-haul trips next year and instead opt to head for the continent.

He commented: "Potentially there may be an upsurge in ferry bookings, so people will be able to shove all their stuff in a car and just jump in with their kids and everything", listing France and Spain among the destinations that may get many visitors this way.

Mr Mckenzie added that cities served by cheap air services will also do well.

That could mean it is better for overseas property buyers to invest in buy-to-let property in easily accessible destinations.

Research by travel portal Kayak.co.uk has found that 60 per cent of Britons are refusing to cancel their winter holidays despite the economic situation.

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