ALASKA AMONGST FASTEST GROWING HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS

While tourism in the US is enjoying a boost thanks to the "Obama effect", Alaska has become one the fastest growing destinations as a result of the "Palin effect".

The media attention focused on America's largest state by Republican vice-president candidate Sarah Palin has been credited with the growing interest from UK holidaymakers.

Daily news broadcasts from Alaska throughout the US elections and recent travel programmes such as Stephen Fry in America highlighted the state's unique natural beauty.

The growing demand has seen travel company Cruise118 launch the UK's first Alaskan specialist brand www.AlaskaOnly.com, after seeing a 35 per cent spike in Alaska-related web searches over the past three months.

Director Mal Barritt said: "We have been inundated with requests for Alaska cruise and land holidays, to the extent that we saw there was a real gap in the market for an Alaskan specialist brand in the UK.

"Alaska has been a popular destination for US holidaymakers for decades but the worldwide attention focused on the state in recent months has led to interest from around the world, especially the UK.

"Its breathtaking scenery, incredible wildlife and unspoilt wilderness give Alaska its deserved title of 'The Last Frontier' and make it one of the world's most unique destinations."