Insight Vacations has announced that over 70 per cent of its entire 2012 Europe and Britain program have now been allocated as Definite Departures as Australian travellers rush to make the most of a record high AUD to Euro exchange rate.

Lorraine Sharp, managing director, Insight Vacations said “As the AUD to Euro exchange rate hits a record mark, so too does Insight Vacations with over two thirds of our 2012 Europe and Britain program confirmed as Definite Departure.

“This means that a significant amount of our entire program has achieved minimum numbers to run and with Definite Departures added on a rolling basis, we can expect to see this figure continue climb as the next few months’ progress.

“Due to the success of our Preview release, Insight’s 2012 Europe and Britain program launched with a number of Definite Departures which are highlighted and updated regularly on our website While the number has continued to climb as the program was rolled out nationally,  recent sales have reflected the strength of the climbing Australian Dollar.

“With the Australian Dollar trading at the record rate of at €0.80, exploring Europe has never been better value and this extends even further when booking an escorted holiday. By booking with Insight Vacations, clients have the benefit and added value of premium hotels in desirable locations, many authentic dining experiences, transport by luxury coach with business class legroom, a number of highlights and sightseeing experiences plus the services of a professional tour director, all included in the price.

“Regions that are performing particularly well are perennial favourites such as Italy, France and Britain, with Russia, Spain and Portugal also proving increasingly popular.

“Also experiencing a surge thanks to the strong Australian Dollar is our deluxe Gold program. While luxurious, each of these tours remains consistent with Insight’s great value philosophy and the current European exchange rate makes these all the more appealing to the Australian traveller, with many opting to upgrade as these become more affordable”