A new survey has highlighted a sense of optimism among the British travelling public, with the majority (58%) of adults intending to take an overseas holiday this year.

This proportion represents an improvement from the 54% who said they were planning to head abroad within the next 12 months when similar research was carried out in July 2009.

More than a fifth (22%) of respondents to the First Rate Exchange Services poll said they are still considering their options.

Londoners appear the most likely to travel this year, with over two thirds (68%) of the city's residents intending to take a foreign holiday in 2010.

A similar enthusiasm was identified in the 18 to 24 age group, with overseas trips in the pipeline for 64% of this demographic.

Gordon Gourlay, First Rate's managing director, said: 'It is of course good news for the travel industry that the majority of people intend to take at least one international break this year.

'It appears, however, that in the early part of 2010 there may be greater demand for holidays which appeal to younger age groups, as many families are set to forgo their traditional break or intend to leave it until later in the year to decide whether finances will stretch to a holiday abroad.'

Opodo cheap flights, hotels and car hire - let the journey begin!

by opodo.co.uk