As the travel industry braces for the negative impact from the global credit crisis, tour operators have launched special deals for the upcoming long weekend. The October 28 national holiday falls on a Tuesday and will be used by tour operators to sell three- or four-day weekend packages, mostly for European destinations.

Although initial signs have been disappointing, there are hopes for last minute bookings.

Concerns are growing in the sector that reluctance by Greeks to go on extended weekend breaks abroad is a trend likely to continue during the Christmas and New Year period.

Prices per person for three-day trips to Madrid and Rome are being offered at 290 euros while the corresponding cost of visiting London is around 320 euros, according to industry sources.