Vacant space is down some 2m square feet from last year's 26.5m peak, but landlords still have to offer such inducements as the now familiar two-year rent holiday on a 10-15-year lease.

ECONOMIST: London office rents

Those looking for a roof above their heads can choose to rent one of the few holiday residences available -- also a popular option for longer stays.

BBC: Uruguay��s laid-back surfing devil

"That could be a holiday for three or four weeks where they don't have to pay rent, " he said.

BBC: St George's market, Belfast, traders seek rent holiday