Millions of Brits are ‘happy to holiday close to home’
MILLIONS of Brits are happy to holiday within 50 miles of their home – as long as their getaway presents the opportunity to try new things.
A study of 2,000 adults found one in six are content travelling a short distance for a break away, providing they have enough time to relax and unwind and explore new surroundings.
Meanwhile, 31 per cent want to eat every meal in a restaurant and try new foods.
Waking up later than usual, wearing clothes which don’t usually leave the wardrobe at home, and getting to enjoy evening entertainment every night are also classed as crucial for a real holiday.
The poll also found 28% regard the idea of sitting on a beach for two weeks boring – with one-fifth admitting they would rather go on a countryside retreat.
Simon Thompson, managing director for Warner Leisure Hotels, which commissioned the research, said: “We’re so lucky to live on such a beautiful isle.
“Brits can find a whole host of gems, quite often right on their doorstep.
“The results show you don’t have to travel for hours and hours to find a relaxing getaway and can experience all the joy of being somewhere new without any of the hassle.”
When quizzed on how long a “real holiday” should be, 20% said three days would be their minimum, while 39% don’t consider a holiday to be so unless they are staying in a hotel.
More than one-third (34%) must be able see the ocean and 24% want the opportunity to try activities they wouldn’t usually do at home.
And 41% like to have entertainment included on a break, although 68% want to be able to do their own thing.
Going to bed later than usual, dining at a buffet and living out of a suitcase also feature in the top 20 “signs of a true holiday”.
The study also found 63% would be happy to consider a staycation, believing they can enjoy just as many world-class sights as somewhere further afield.
And at the moment, 55% of those polled said they are more likely to take weekend breaks and short trips than weeks away.
The findings come in the wake of the pandemic when lockdown brought holidays to an end, with 43% of adults polled, via OnePoll, saying they have not had a real holiday since lockdown. The staycation trend boomed as lockdown restrictions gradually eased, with foreign travel not an option initially.
Mr Thompson added: “It’s clear people appreciate all the UK has to offer – many may find it easier to switch off on a staycation and worry less about international travel and all it entails.
“Also, with the economic climate in its current state and the inflation of fuel prices, it’s no wonder holidaying closer to home has become so popular.”