Talking point

Do we need to travel internationally to have the perfect holiday?

THE past months have seen us all become well acquainted with the inside of our homes. Now that lockdown is easing, and a normal pace of life seems within reach, many of us are dreaming of swapping our homes for far-flung holiday destinations.

Several countries are beginning to reopen their borders, and Quash Quarantine – a UK collective of travel industry bosses – has said travel abroad is now within reach.

“International travel opens our eyes and hearts to other cultures and lifestyles in a way that seems more important than ever in these difficult times,” travel writer Gillian Thornton says.

However, many are still wary of international travel, and travel bosses feel this could be paving the way for a UK “staycation” boom.

The British Tourism & Travel Show observed a rise in the popularity of UK staycations in January this year, before the lockdown.

Many people are becoming mindful of their carbon footprint, and movements such as “Flight Free 2020” encourage Britons to avoid air travel in their holiday plans.

Holidaying in the UK can also be more convenient. A Discover Northern Ireland spokesperson said, “Staying close to home, you can easily plan travel with friends or family and have adventure without hassle.”

Is there any real reason for Brits to holiday abroad?

“There are so many gorgeous spots to visit here in the UK, and it doesn’t feel like a concession not going abroad,” Sarah and James Mcalister of travel blog Endless Ireland said.

While the UK may not have exotic beaches, it has a unique beauty which can make it the perfect holiday destination.

“Many people will fall back in love with holidays at home and choose to fit a UK break into their annual holiday schedule,” Jacqueline Dobson, President of Barrhead Travel, predicts. ■