The credit crunch is undoubtedly having some impact on everyone but despite everyone feeling the pinch experts don’t anticipate a major downturn in the number of British tourists taking an annual holiday abroad. As people face increased stress in their everyday life as a result of the economic downturn it’s not surprising that we won’t be putting on hold the week or two we get every year to put all worries and work to one side to enjoy a relaxing holiday in the sun. The Costa del Sol on the south coast of Spain is a favourite with British holiday makers and although the Euro exchange rate it the worst it’s ever been thousands of British tourists are expected to touch down at Malaga Airport for their annual summer holiday.

One thing that is expected to change is the number of holiday makers looking to reduce the cost of their holiday wherever possible. This might mean taking a budget scheduled flight rather than a charter flight, or maybe renting a small car. Another increasingly popular trend is to us rent a holiday home directly from the owner, often giving a better rate than those available through a travel agency. Luxury villas, apartments and townhouses are advertised on the internet and potential holiday makers can contact the owner directly to arrange there stay. The option of staying in a self-catering holiday home itself offer the chance to make a saving. Holiday makers can use local supermarkets and shops to buy food rather than be committed to eating prepaid hotel meals.

Renting a private villa also gives the holiday maker total privacy and the chance to enjoy a private swimming pool and terrace – perfect for BBQ’s and evenings with family and friends. There a are numerous apartments and villas available to rent directly from the owner throughout the Costa del Sol in popular towns such as Marbella, Punta Lara, Benalmadena and Nerja.