London Still Top Spot for US Travelers

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. May 29, 2009

MAY 29, 2009 - Skyscanner Reveals Most Popular European Destinations and This Year's Fastest Climbers

Skyscanner.com reveals that London is still the most popular starting point for American tourists heading to Europe this summer.

The UK capital is the most searched for European destination by US users on the Skyscanner site, followed by Paris, Rome, Dublin and Frankfurt.

Barry Smith, Skyscanner director and co-founder commented: "Despite the recession, people who have been planning a vacation in Europe are very reluctant to sacrifice their trip, but value is more important than ever and they are determined to find the best deals out there - one of the reasons we have been seeing a steady rise of US users on Skyscanner.com."

Skyscanner also examined the European destinations that have seen the sharpest rise in interest from US travelers. Athens in Greece has seen the biggest growth, up 224%, followed by Barcelona up 140%, Madrid up 138%, Paris up 108% and Dublin up 96%, compared to summer 2008.

Despite the economic downturn, Europe has become cheaper for US travelers due to the growing strength of the US dollar against European currencies. In May 08, one Euro cost 1.55 US dollars, but now costs around 1.40 US dollars.

The dollar has also strengthened against the GBP; in May 08, one GBP cost almost two US dollars. Now, one GBP costs only 1.60 US dollars.

Most searched for European destinations for summer 09 on Skyscanner.net:

1. London

2. Paris

3. Rome

4. Dublin5. Frankfurt

Fastest growing destinations; summer 08 compared to summer 09:

1. Athens (+224%)

2. Barcelona (+140%)

3. Madrid (+138%)

4. Paris (108%+)

5. Dublin (+96%)