Britain overpriced

The latest edition of the `Lonely Planet Guide` says the country "has had its day" and even natives can no longer afford to holiday at home; it found many destinations were "overpriced or lacking in quality" and the tourist industry sometimes "just doesn`t deliver", the `Daily Mail` reported.

The influential guide concedes that many parts of Great Britain are still "great", and that it is still one of the most fascinating places in the world to explore.

It said London had excellent restaurants with many free attractions for children, while Edinburgh was "one of the world`s most fascinating cities" and Manchester was "truly special". But it said Britain may leave some holidaymakers regretting plans for a "staycation".

Overall, the guide said overseas visitors are the winners because they can take advantage of the weak pound.

David Else, author of the Great Britain guide, wrote: "If you`re on a tight budget, there`s no getting away from it -- Britain ain`t cheap. Public transport, admission fees, restaurants and hotel rooms all tend to be expensive compared with their equivalents in other European countries.

"Everyone is looking harder to get more bang for their buck and a return to Great British value. There is no doubt that Britain is great.

"In my opinion its history, scenery and people make it one of the most fascinating places in the world to explore. However, if Brits feel they don`t get value for money with their staycation then they will look to go elsewhere in 2012.