British Airways said bookings soared over the festive season as Britons fled to drier climates for their holidays.

The airline reported bookings at its holiday division were 75% higher than a year ago on Christmas Day while sales climbed 58% on Boxing Day.

Top destinations included Las Vegas, Orlando, Florida, the Carribbean islands of Barbados and St. Lucia, and the Persian Gulf of Dubai. Other enjoyed breaks in New York, Venice, Rome, Barcelona and Berlin.

The sales increased on the back of higher demand from UK consumers who escaped from the wet weather. Britain experienced its highest rainfall on record in 2012, according to the Met Office.

"We've seen a jump in people booking holidays over Christmas," Claire Bentley, managing director of BA Holidays, said.

"Perhaps it's all the stress in the run up to it or just down to the fact people have a little more time to think about the year ahead, but the festive season seems to turn people's attention to relaxing in the sun or exploring a new city."

Earlier in 2012 the country experienced an influx of people arriving for the Queen Elizabeth II's diamond jubilee and for the London Olympic Games in July and August.

British Airways, a division of International Airlines Group (IAG), anticipates another "bumping booking day" on January 7th as people return to work and begin planning their next holiday.

IAG shares gained 0.16% to 193.20p at 14:24 Thursday.

RD

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