South Africa Tipped For 2009 By BA

South Africa is tipped to be one of the top long haul destinations for 2009 according to a report from British Airways. In particular, Cape Town and Johannesburg were highlighted as destinations with most potential in the airline's, ‘top long haul destinations for 2009’ report. It is suggested that the impact of the British Lions Tour and the strength of the pound against the rand are both factors that will increase South Africa’s popularity as a holiday destination in 2009.

British Airways' head of UK & Ireland sales, Richard Tams said that despite the current economic climate, long haul destinations will remain popular,

“Destinations such as Dubai and the Caribbean Islands of St Kitts and St Lucia continue to experience growth and investment, so we anticipate greater numbers of customers wanting to travel there.

"South Africa will be popular thanks to the relative strength of the pound against the rand and the upcoming British Lions tour."

It is also claimed that more discerning travellers will recognise that there are some real bargains to be found in long-haul destinations like New York, and particularly the Far East and Australasia as travellers seek more authentic travel experiences.