SCHOOL holiday periods for next winter are already booking up quickly according to UK tour operators.

A key reason appears to be the much publicised stepping-up of the fines system for parents taking children out of school in England during term time.

Unusually the festive period is currently proving more popular that the half term holidays.

“Christmas and New Year is selling really well and is up over 40% year on year,” said Marion Telsnig of Crystal Ski.

Xavier Schouller of French ski holiday specialists Peak Retreats added: “Traditionally Christmas is a little quieter than New Year because some skiers like to celebrate at home with the family. Prices for Christmas are on average about 20% less than for New Year.”

But it seems Easter 2015 may offer the best value for school holiday bargain hunters,

“With the main UK Easter holiday week being back in March the week of 28 March is booking well too and we expect it will be very popular,” says Xavier.

“This year it falls outside the main European holidays so prices can be half of what they are for February half-term. Because of this we expect it will be massively popular and a great alternative for those with school age children who want to get the most of their money.”

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