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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
World
Esther Marshall & Aaron Morrris & Tim Hanlon

Brits better having break in Spanish sun than battling bills, says tourist chief

Brits would be better soaking up the sun in Spain with a winter holiday than spending their money on sky-high energy bills, says the Costa del Sol tourist board.

People have been working out how they are going to balance the bills with the cost of heating homes rising considerably as well as general inflation that has seen a massive increase in food prices.

But the Costa del Sol tourist board says that the answer is to get away and enjoy a holiday in Spain, reported the ChronicleLive.

Clearly in the south of Spain it remains sunny all year round - so no need for heating - and the president of the tourist board, Francisco Salado has said that the tourist industry is trying to attract energy "nomads".

“They will be better off spending the winter with us," said Mr Salado.

Prices are likely to be cheaper in Spanish tourist resorts during off-peak periods this winter (Getty Images)

And authorities in some European countries are encouraging people to travel to warmer climates during winter if they can this summer, reports the Express.

Mr Salado also said that the Costa del Sol has other advantages as well as the weather, with prices generally lower than in northern European countries and people can enjoy the food and culture.

“The Costa del Sol has an advantage in this situation because it is already a benchmark for good weather and quality facilities," he said.

Temperatures in Costa del Sol between December and February are generally in the mid-teens, with it feeling warm in the sun. Along with this as it is out of season, accommodation prices are at their lowest point during the winter so people can find bargains.

But following Brexit people will have to be careful not to go for more than 90 days during a six month period and could face penalties if they do so.

Many people in the UK are worried about how they will pay their energy bills this winter (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

These penalties come in the form of fines, travel bans and even overnight detentions in immigration facilities.

If British citizens wish to stay longer, they are required to apply for a standard visa.

For some who frequently spend the colder months in southern Europe they have had to make the tough choice between applying for residency in Spain or selling their properties altogether.

Furthermore, it is a tricky process to apply for Spanish residency - with applications having to be made from the UK and there is considerable bureaucracy.

For people who want to go further afield to escape the energy bills there are other options like Thailand and Vietnam where prices are considerably lower than in the UK for basic products.

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