More In Store From Thomas Cook In 2008.

Under the new umbrella of Thomas Cook UK & Ireland, the company now features more than 20 brands including household favourites such as Thomas Cook, Airtours, Direct Holidays, Sunset and Neilson.

Next year, Thomas Cook UK & Ireland will take more than six million people abroad, attract 1.3 million visitors to its website every week and have thousands descend on its 807 travel shops nationwide. In addition, Thomas Cook Airlines - which now has a fleet of 42 aircraft - will offer a charter and seat only flight programme to destinations worldwide from various regional airports.

Ian Derbyshire, executive director Holidays Division said, "Back in 1841 Thomas Cook introduced the British to travel, now 166 years later we continue to pioneer and lead the changing face of travel today. Thomas Cook UK & Ireland is now home to the most recognised brands in travel and 2008 will see many new destinations, resorts and services ensuring the customer has the very best travel experience from start to finish."

Hot spots for next year include favourites that attract millions of holidaymaker's year in year out.  Renowned for great value, choice of accommodation and outstanding facilities - for all ages - The Balearics, Turkey, Egypt and The Canaries will remain top of the table.

For longhaul - Thomas Cook's brands will feature more destinations than ever before.  Thomas Cook Signature itself will have 145 destinations, 923 hotels and flights with 48 scheduled airlines.  Destinations set to soar include America - the weak dollar making stateside a great value option - and the pull of the east - both far and middle - will attract those who like to combine culture with the beach.

Thomas Cook Airlines has also confirmed that from May 2008 its long haul flights will enjoy a 33 inch seat pitch - that's more leg room than Virgin and British Airways.

2008 will see cruising continue to be the fastest growing holiday choice - and family cruising is where significant growth is expected. Following its merge with The Cruise Store, Cruise Thomas Cook is now the largest cruise retailer in the UK.

Although England, Scotland and Wales are all out of Euro 2008, there are still many other major sporting events taking place next year.  As the leading sports breaks provider in the UK, Thomas Cook Sport will offer exclusive travel packages to many of these ensuring sports lovers are in the heart of the action.

And, from the company who introduced the circular note back in 1874 - what we call the travellers cheque today - Thomas Cook Financial Services will continue to pioneer the market. In 2008, not only will the Thomas Cook Credit Card become a travellers best friend but expect to see many more Thomas Cook Foreign Exchange Bureaux's in airports up and down the UK.

Thomas Cook's predictions for what's hot in 2008 are:

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