HOTEL RATES IN MANY EUROPEAN CITIES are at their highest since January 2010, but overall value remains better than 12 months ago, a survey by an online booking agency has concluded.
Trivago found that prices in 32 of 50 European cities had risen since the start of the year, emphasising the recovery in business travel but also a blip in the recovery of sterling against the euro exchange rate.
The survey found average nightly rates in Europe in October were £103, an 8 per cent rise since September's average of £95. However, the increase equates to only a 4 per cent rise for those paying in euros.
"Over the last few months, the exchange rate was more favourable for the UK traveller; this month that has changed and the same hotel is a lot more expensive," said a Trivago spokesperson.
The research also found that rates in Madrid were up 29 per cent in October compared with the previous month, with rooms averaging £101. Brussels rose 19 per cent from September to October to £95, although this is still 22 per cent cheaper than a year ago. Paris rates were £153 in October, up 13 per cent compared with the previous month.
Prices in London have rebounded after the traditional summer lull, rising 11 per cent in October, after two months of decline, to an average £142 a night