UK increasingly popular with domestic holidaymakers in 2011

Holidaying at home is fast becoming a preference for an increasing number of Britons, according to research from Expedia UK.

Expedia found that seven per cent more holidaymakers decided to shun the traditional overseas getaway in favour of a break in Blighty this year, compared to 2010.

The most popular destinations of which, were in the south of England, followed by London, reports the Press Association.

Many holidaymakers chose domestic holidays, such as camping in England, over the more unpredictable overseas trip this year in light of a myriad of global events of which they had no control over, Expedia said.

For example, Britons altered their travel arrangements during bookings to Thailand during the severe floods, which blighted the tropical country. Similarly, bookings to Japan dropped off immediately following the devastating earthquake in March. 

"2011 has highlighted the mixed approach to holidaying taken by Brits in troubled times," commented Expedia's UK and Ireland managing director Andy Washington on MSN Money.

"As some are drawn to holidaying at home, others simply look for alternative destinations - with Spain and Turkey particularly growing in popularity during the Arab Spring," he noted.

However, there was another unifying factor that kept Britons from handing over the cash in 2011. According to Mr Washington, Britons are opportunists when it comes to a deal, and therefore waited for certain international events to subside before making an overseas booking.

"What's absolutely clear is our determination to keep our holidays," he said.