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Global warming could significantly change the holidays people choose, a new study has found.

Research by the Benfield-UCL Hazard Research Centre (BHRC) predicts that by 2030 average global temperatures could be between 1 and 2 decrees C higher than today with global sea levels being 72mm higher than today.

The result would be current favourite summer destination could become too hot in the height of summer.

The study predicts holidaymakers will be spending summer further and further north, switching away from the Mediterranean.

With the increasing temperature, Spanish resorts and those around the Mediterranean will have to shift their peak periods from summer to winter and spring.

The report also predicts that water restrictions could see golf courses and swimming pools close. It is estimated the golf courses around the Med currently use enough water for 2.5m people.

Bill McGuire, professor of Geohazards at BHRC, said: 'When we investigate how climate change will impact on specific holiday destinations in 25 years' time we have to base our forecasts on trends that are already becoming apparent and make broad predictions.

'Although these findings imply a slow down in global tourism and a change in holiday patterns there are measures that both travellers and the tourism industry can take to mitigate some of the worse effects of climate change.'

The report, which is backed by Halifax, predicts island destinations around the world will be particularly affected both by the rising sea levels, the hotter summers and more extreme weather conditions.


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