TUI Travel, owner of Thomson Holidays, has revealed a significant comeback in travel demand as holidaymakers ignore the slump. The travel company said that UK bookings for this summer have risen 13 per cent despite an average nine per cent increase in selling prices.

UK holidaymakers have earlier faced several problems, including the recent global economic recession and weaker pound exchange rates. TUI’s increased bookings mean that holidaymakers are determined to travel abroad after two disappointing summers in a row.

The country’s unemployment rate has also not gone up as high as first projected, while would-be travellers seem undeterred by worries over potential air tax hikes later this year.

The UK government will impose substantial increases in Air Passenger Duty (APD) starting November. The planned tax hike means that a family of four travelling in economy class to the US will have to pay £240 in tax alone, much higher compared to the current £180 charge. Meanwhile, a family flying to Australia will see its APD climb to £340 from £220 at present.

The travel firm also experienced stronger growth in Nordic and French markets, with bookings up 23 per cent and 21 per cent respectively. Moreover, TUI said that it had nearly sold its winter holidays, with only few tour packages left at discounted price.