NZ travellers eyeing eastern europe in greater numbers

4.30pm

Eastern European countries that have become new members of the European Union are attracting the attention of New Zealand travellers, a leading travel retailer said today.

Flight Centre said the level of interest in recent months in countries like the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Latvia and Estonia was significantly higher than in previous years.

While it was too early to provide overall figures, the company said one wholesaler it dealt with had reported a doubling in tour bookings for eastern Europe.

Another reported a 30 per cent increase in its sales for travel in the region.

Flight Centre spokeswoman Karen Munro attributed a large part of the trend to publicity over the EU's expansion.

The EU's membership swelled to 25 on May 1 when 10 nations in eastern Europe and the Mediterranean were admitted.

"People are hearing far more about these countries than ever before," Ms Munro said.

"They are now seriously considering them as a destination to visit when they head to Europe."

One factor for New Zealanders was that eastern European destinations were less expensive than than those in western Europe.

Ms Munro said a two-night break in the Czech capital of Prague was available for less than $150 per person, including breakfast and a city tour.

"Add that to the fact that you can buy an espresso for about $1 and you have a very affordable holiday."

She said the region was also becoming popular for nature breaks and "wellness holidays".

"Many of these countries, such as Latvia, Slovakia and Estonia, are seen as having lots of untouched, scenic landscapes that are good for both body and soul."

- NZPA