The President of the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) Justin Fleming said: ?May is one of the nicest times of year to travel with cheaper prices and bearable temperatures, but bank holidays are always busy, so check the travel news for information about your destination.?



Apparently one of the other reasons for the potential rise in traffic this week will be the fact that it has also coincided with yet another school half term holiday.

According to travel industry insiders the popular locations this weekend are expected to be Spain, Greece, Italy and the Canary Islands.

However, Florida has been highlighted as a hot spot for long-haul tourists with Paris and Prague apparently the most popular City break destinations.

Another fast developing trend among the holiday market has been the development of rural retreats as a popular option for short breaks. This particular section of the marketplace has seen a huge growth in the requirement for rural retreats in England, France, Italy, Spain and also Scotland.

Now you can choose from a wide variety of cosy cottages in England, rural farm houses and chateaux in France, Villas in Italy or Spain and lastly a selection of rural retreats and Crofts in Scotland.

Let's take a look at the potential of some of the locations on offer. In England you could rent a chapel conversion in Bideford in Devon, a cottage with indoor pool and hot tub in Norfolk or a charming Oast House in Sussex.

In France you could go clay pigeon shooting for the weekend at a ch?teaux in Normandy. In Italy you could rent a traditional white coned puglian ?trulli? complete with traditional pizza oven or an 18th century Walter Mill next to a pretty waterfall.

In Spain you could rent a Spanish ?cave house? in Baza in Andalusia or an Olive-pressers cottage in El Burgo!

Finally in Scotland you could rent from a number on a wide selection of country chalets or cottages in a tranquil glen near Oban on the West Coast of the Highlands.

The fact is that the variety of opportunities available is growing and so it would appear would be demand.

There are also certain basic tips that it is always useful to be aware of when undertaking this type of holiday. Firstly speak to the owner before you confirm the booking to sound out about the property location, what is next door and above all what is included in the price.

If at all possible ask to see references from previous satisfied guests make sure you clearly understand the owners policies on cancellations, deposits, payment schedules and refunds.

Get everything confirmed in writing and make sure you know what time you can arrive and more importantly what time you have to leave by.

Finally, ask the owner the best way to get to the property and if they can recommend any particular route or car hire firm to rent vehicles from. At the same time check who will be available for you to contact if in the unforeseen situation that you need to contact the local emergency services or the owner themselves in case of emergencies at the property.

Get your information check out up front and you'll have a great short term holiday.