Searches for cheap flights to Spain surge in January

Spain and the Canary Islands appear to be benefitting from the ongoing political turmoil in Egypt following news that tourists are choosing to take cheap holidays in the destinations instead of the north African nation.

According to search engine WhichBudget.com, a 30 per cent fall in overall flight searches to Egypt has been seen since the conflict began, a trend that was observed in Tunisia as well.

However, there has been a significant increase in the number of flights enquiries for the Canary Islands and other Spanish destinations, an indication that holidaymakers are looking for alternatives there.

"Malaga, Alicante and Faro in particular have all experienced a surge in the number of searches since the protests in Tunisia and Egypt began," explained Martino Matijevic of WhichBudget.com.

"However, Barcelona saw the largest rise in January flight searches at 22 per cent, followed by Tenerife with an increase of 12 per cent."

Spain and the Canary Islands are traditionally popular with Brits thanks to their proximity, favourable weather and sandy beaches.