Don't pig out on Christmas cake...Indulge instead with an Explore short break!

Online, September 15, 2009 (Newswire.com) - A recent Visa Europe study has revealed that over 83% of Brits will be taking up to 5 short breaks this year across the globe, as opposed to the usual long and extensive summer break. With 52% of customers booking their holidays within 3 months of departure, now is the time to begin planning your final holiday for 2009, just in time for the Christmas break.

Specialising in family holidays and short breaks with added adventure is Explore, the UK's leading small group adventure travel company.

Says Carl Burrows, Sales Director at Explore: "We are aware that customers are tending to book their holidays a little later than previous years, and short breaks are a popular and economical option".

Following the summer washout, it's understandable that travellers want to treat themselves or their families by escaping the winter blues to enjoy some sun, snow and activity this Christmas. From snow-shoeing in Bulgaria or dog-sledding in Lapland, to the city sights of Jordan or tigers in India, Explore has over 20 short breaks of 4 days or longer on offer this December.

For those who are strapped for time and perhaps looking for a quick burst of adventure and a break from the normal routine, Explores short breaks and family adventures are an ideal way to indulge in a new experience. With a diverse range of tours, from walking and cycling, to wildlife and discovery which span from Scotland to East Africa, you can experience Christmas with a difference in 2009.

For those looking to maximise their spirit for adventure, then Explore offer over 450 tours to worldwide destinations lasting from 3 to 30 days, not to mention their specialist Tailormade division, where itineraries are brought to life on your terms.

For adventure-packed breaks this December, Explore offers the following tours for you or your family:

Polish Winter Adventure (5 days): A beautiful winter wonderland tour of Poland begins with 2 days walking and driving amidst in the picturesque Pieniny Mountains and limestone gorges. Donning your snow shoes or snowmobile, you can explore the more remote trails and experience an evening sleigh ride. A final night in the charming city of Krakow leaves you time to explore Poland's architectural delights before your trip concludes.
Departing 30 December, prices start from £840, including flights*. Tour code: PW

Lapland Ice Adventure (5 days): An adrenalin filled 5 day safari spent on dog sleds and snow mobiles in the snowy wilderness of Sweden. Ice fishing, reindeer rides and snow-shoeing activities will create a wild winter adventure, ending in style with a night at the Ice Hotel.
Departing 23 & 26 December, prices start from £1325, including flights*. Tour code: WL

The Lost City of Petra (9 days): This family tour of Jordan brings Indiana Jones to life as you explore the enchanting rose red city of Petra before camping as a Bedouin tribesman and bathing in the warm and crystalline waters of the Red Sea.
Departing 26 December, prices start from £1232 per adult and £1162 per child, including flights*. Tour code: FJD

Copper Canyon and Tequila Express (14 days): Spend Christmas in the sun in Mexico, journeying by train through the breathtaking scenery of the Sierra Madre Mountains and Copper Canyon. Visit the colonial and historic sites of Mexico City, Guadalajar and Queretaro and sample the hospitality of local villagers en route. Why not extend your trip by a few days and relax on the Baja Peninsula amidst turquoise seas and beautiful sandy beaches?
Departing 20 December, prices start from £2877, including flights*. Tour code: RMX

*All tours include transportation, accommodation, some meals and guiding, plus flights from London (regional connections available) where stated.

For more information or to book, call Explore on 0844 499 0901 or visit www.explore.co.uk.