Volcano ‘not deterring’ car hire customers

The recent volcanic eruption in Iceland may not have an impact on the number of car hire customers heading to London.

Ian Bradley, spokesperson for the Association of Independent Tour Operators, argued that recent growth in international tourism is unlikely to have a significant effect.

"It was a freak incident that caused short-term chaos, but nothing life-changing in terms of how we take holidays," he stated.

Rather, Mr Bradley suggested the number of consumers looking to take vacations is set to rise, as improved economic conditions mean many are better-placed for spending.

"People have more money in their pockets than this time last year," he said.

The comments came after the UNWTO Would Tourism Barometer showed the global industry is already picking up, despite a difficult 2009.

International arrivals were up seven per cent in the first two months of the year, according to the study, with further growth expected.

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