Speaking of holidays. Anyone making plans may find that their budget will stretch to a stay at a luxury international hotel this year.

The on-going weakness of the Asian currencies has prompted summer discounts, with top hotels in Malaysia, Bali, Thailand, Bangkok and Hong Kong, all offering accommodation at substantial discounts. In this region, some of the best hotels are offering discounts of up to 65 per cent.

Others have begun to offer free services rather than reduced rates, throwing in free meals, shuttle service and theatre tickets for guests. Nearer to home, a number of the top-grade hotels in London have also lowered their rates, with discounts of up to £100 off normal room rates now available if you shop around.