New York 'top for Xmas shopping'

The traditionally popular shopping destination of New York is still the number one spot for Christmas present-buying trips, a spokesperson for the Association of British Travel Agents (Abta) has claimed.

According to the Abta representative, one of the most important factors in the ongoing popularity of the American destination is the strength of the pound against the dollar.

However, Sean Tipton also said that a trend of visiting eastern European destinations for shopping trips is becoming popular.

"In terms of Christmas shopping New York is still the most popular," he said. "What is getting more popular, and has been for a few years, is people travelling around Germany, and eastern Europe to a lesser extent, going to Christmas markets.

"It's as much for the cultural experience as for the shopping."

Mr Tipton went on to explain that Germany and some countries in Europe celebrate Christmas in a very traditional fashion, in a way that hasn't been seen in the UK "since the 19th century".

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