According to real estate experts, the property boom in Bulgaria and the Baltic states has shown that low-cost airlines indicate where these hotspots will be in the upcoming years, the Independent reported, cited by Sofia news agency.  "I've always said the low-cost airlines are the leading indicator to where hotspots will be in the next few years. We have seen it in Bulgaria and the Baltic states," Justin Figgins of the Rightmove Overseas property website was quoted as saying.

However, the arrival of cheap flights is not in itself enough to transform a developing economy into a major tourist destination, the article points out, citing once again Bulgaria's experience. According to the report, the decision of low-cost air carriers to offer flights to certain destinations outlines which regions are to soon experience tourism boom, Sofia news agency reported. "Low-cost flights are one of the main indicators, but you must also look at tourism growth and infrastructure investment," Figgins was quoted as saying, adding: "In Bulgaria, the infrastructure is still poor, but tourism is growing in Morocco and lots of infrastructure is going in. To me, that makes it more likely to be profitable as an investment location."

According to the report: the arrival of low-cost airlines brings up the price of property located in direct proximity; people in search of vacationing abroad are willing to spend less on travel, but more on proper accommodation; and low-cost airlines have already entered the Bulgarian aviation market, enabling agents predict a property boom there.

The availability of low-cost flights features among the top reasons of travelers to select a certain location; yet, budget flights are insufficient reason for major economic developments. Bulgaria recently experienced decrease in its property price growth.

"In Bulgaria, the infrastructure is still poor, but tourism is growing in Morocco and lots of infrastructure is going in," the report said.

On the other hand, some destinations that have been highly regarded by British holidaymakers and expatriates are not served well by low-cost airlines, the Independent comments. "What is puzzling to me is why the low-cost airlines have not flocked to Cyprus, where the weather is good, people speak English and English law prevails. If they did, it would really open up," Figgins was quoted as saying.