Tourists head to the Balkans in 2007

The tourism industries in Bulgaria and Romania are experiencing an upturn in fortunes, thanks to the countries' accession to the European Union (EU) this year.

Online holiday company directlines-holidays.co.uk said that the boost is particularly pronounced in the Balkans region.

Bulgaria expects to see a ten per cent increase in foreign tourists this year, with more than 5.6 million tourists expected to visit the country.

Romania's buoyant tourism industry was up 20 per cent even in the run-up to its inclusion in the EU.

Sales manager Alex Pilkington comments: "Eastern Europe tourism in general, particularly in the Balkans, has been gaining popularity – and represents great value-for-money when compared to its western European counterparts."

Product manager at directline Natasha Akram added: "Bulgaria offers the most affordable winter sports holidays available in mainland Europe today, with Bansko, Borovets and Pamporovo the most popular resorts."