GET ME OUT OF HERE! 5M BRITS' XMAS GETAWAY

FIVE million Britons determined to escape the cost-of-living gloom at home are treating themselves to the gift of spending Christmas abroad.

- Emily Braeger and Giles Sheldrick

The pent-up desire for a festive break is expected to trigger a weekend rush to travel agents in a possible sign of renewed consumer confidence.

Spain, Greece and the Caribbean are the most requested destinations for much-needed winter sun, while December 23 and 27 are proving to be the top departure days.

Holiday industry experts are forecasting that the next three weeks could be the busiest in years for the sector, with one saying fed-up families are looking to give Christmas shopping the chop and swap the stress for a week in the sun from £265.

David Child, head of communications for Thomas Cook, said: "Buying experiences as gifts is becoming ever more popular.

"We can see a last-minute rush of bookings for families and couples who are opting to book a getaway over Christmas.

"And no doubt, people are keen to avoid the effort of all the gift-buying and fridge-stocking that's needed for a Christmas at home." Other workers are rushing to use up annual leave before the year ends, rather than lose it.

Chris Webber, head of holidays and deals at TravelSupermarket, said: "December is cold.. with the shortest day guaranteeing more darkness than light. For many of us, leave allowances will be renewed in January, so for some there will be days to use. Together with two bank holidays around Christmas and New Year, this is a great time to max out that allowance.