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Xmas exodus as Brits flee to Spain

As the cost of Christmas continues to rise and the odds of a white Christmas remain poor, it's no wonder than over 3.3 million Britons will spend the festive season overseas, 11% more than 2006, according to Co-operative Travel...

Spain remains the top destination as Britons continue to take advantage of the lower cost of living and holiday homes throughout the country to enjoy a traditional and less commercialized Christmas break.

Christmas in Spain is primarily a religious event starting on the 8^th December with the Immaculada (the feast of the Immaculate Conception) and concluding on the 6^th January, El día de Reyes (The Day of Kings). The festive month is celebrated with dances, feasts, religious services and even El Gordo, the Spanish Christmas lottery known as the 'fat one'. There is no Santa Claus; instead gifts are exchanged on the 6^th January, the day of Epiphany, in commemoration of the gifts brought by the wise men.

Escaping the big freeze

For many, exchanging the cold, wet weather in Britain for a warm and sunny Mediterranean climate is the primary attraction. Temperatures can reach up to 17°C along the southern mainland coast and 21°C on the Canary Islands and it is not uncommon to enjoy Christmas dinner on your balcony or a spot of sunbathing in the afternoon.

Spain however offers diversity and for winter sports lovers it doesn't disappoint. The Sierra Nevada in Andalucia, Southern Spain and the Pyrenees in the North are the two primary skiing destinations attracting thousands each year. Cooler weather this year has meant that ski resorts in both regions have opened as scheduled and are set to enjoy a successful 2007-8 season.

Martin Dell, MD of Kyero.com and a resident in Spain, comments, “The festive period in Spain is thoroughly enjoyable; the emphasis is on spending time with friends and family rather than rushing around in search of the latest 'must have' gift. We have seen more and more people choosing to spend their Christmas at their second home in Spain, making good use of the property year round.”

For more information: www.kyero.com or visit www.christmas-spain.com