Demand for luxury travel set to grow this year, says ABTA

The demand for luxury holidays is set to increase throughout 2012, according to ABTA - The Travel Association.

Rather than opting for short-haul trips to renowned beach resorts, the organisation believes UK tourists will be more adventurous this year.

Chief executive at ABTA Mark Tanzer has suggested that more people want specially-tailored breaks that offer an authentic experience.

Activity holidays are anticipated to be in high demand in 2012 and holidaymakers are also increasingly keen to explore and cruise around far-flung destinations.

The travel body outlined Jordan as one place that is attracting a lot of interest thanks to its huge range of famous sites such as Petra, the Dead Sea, Wadi Rum and the Roman ruins in Jerash.

Amman is also well worth a visit, tourism chiefs recently stated, as the city is steeped in history. As well as boasting an array of intriguing museums and art galleries, the metropolis also has a burgeoning reputation as a destination for lovers of fine food.