Spain still first choice for Brits

With France coming a close second, the results prove the enduring attraction of the more established destinations, but the gap is narrowing and new markets like Dubai and Cape Verde are stealing a march on their hot spot rivals.

The report, based on analysis of enquiries received by Conti so far this year, reveals that although Spain and France together account for one in three (29%) of these, interest in both countries has declined slightly since last year. Dubai, on the other hand, is creeping up the table, moving from ninth to seventh place, with a 1% increase in enquiries.

Cape Verde, another emerging market, is also edging quickly into the picture. Although it has not yet made it into the top ten, it’s quickly establishing itself as a contender, accounting for an impressive 3% of enquiries in the last two months of this year alone.

Simon Conn, sales and marketing director at Conti Financial Services, said:

“Spain and France are still leading the pack, albeit with a narrowing margin, and it’s not difficult to see why. Affordable prices, low interest rates, easy access and great weather have all contributed to the attraction of these destinations, but their lead is being weakened as investors turn their attention to emerging markets. The strong euro has also taken its toll.

“Low interest rates and the introduction of new property ownership laws are enabling the property market in Dubai to thrive and this is reflected in the levels of interest it’s experiencing. Cape Verde, billed as the closest Caribbean islands to mainland Europe, and now with direct flights available from the UK, is another rising star.”