'Cheapest ever' travel deals

Travel agents are offering scores of bargain deals to attract customers who appear reluctant to leave the country while there is war.

However, the offers may not last if the conflict in Iraq continues, as tour operators will be forced to cut capacity to match the falling number of holiday-makers.

Sean Titon of ABTA said: "Prices in March and April are some of the lowest ever. Tour operators and airlines are trying to stimulate demand by putting out some bargains.

"However, if the war goes on, prices will go up. Bargains mean companies are losing money so if you want to travel, now is the time to book."

Seven-night deals are widely available-from £99 per person to sun-spots such as Ibiza, Costa Blanca and Menorca. A family of four can fly to Tenerife and stay in a three-star hotel for seven days for £79 each.

Thousands of £1 per night offers at hotels and apartments in Majorca, Crete and Algarve are being offered by somewhere2stay.com.

A spokesman for the web-based accommodation agents said sales had plummeted since war broke out but the company is hoping the market will recover when fighting stops.

Travel to countries near Iraq, including Egypt, Cyprus and Greece, has dropped dramatically. For those willing to risk a trip to Turkey, which borders the military action, the cost of a week in five-star accommodation has been slashed to £119 per person.

A range of incentives has been introduced to increase bookings. Popular offers include children going free, flexible deals and no deposit. Travel giant Lunn Poly is to allow customers to change their itineraries without charge.

Retail director John McEwan said: "In the current climate we feel it is essential to give people peace of mind and the flexibility to change their holiday plans if they feel uncomfortable about travelling to a specific destination."