Families who pack up their children's travel suitcases and head for France for their summer holiday will never be stuck for things to do.

According to ATOUT FRANCE - the France Tourism Development Agency - the Gallic nation offers a "diverse range" of activities and experiences.

A spokesperson for the tourism authority said families could be attracted to its seaside resorts, while older travellers may cross the Channel to enjoy a wine-centred break.

Skiing holidays are also a popular jaunt for British tourists.

The representative remarked: "With France being the UK's direct neighbour, average transport costs are inferior to any other destination, which allows visitors to extend their stay and/or allocate a more important part of their holiday budget to quality accommodation and local activities."

He added that many of the nation's tourist offerings can be adapted to suit to most holiday budgets.

The spokesperson was reacting to recent media reports which suggested France experienced a drop in tourist numbers in 2009, with 17 per cent fewer Britons visiting.

Posted by Ed SaltersADNFCR-3005-ID-19725277-ADNFCR