- Over half of Brits yearn to sleep in their own beds
- Women miss their wardrobe whilst men miss the football
- Over a quarter admit they miss the internet whilst away
- Nearly three in five have returned to a holiday destination as they feel it's a 'home from home'
Holidays are an opportunity to escape everyday life, to take a break and relax. But many Brits yearn for their creature comforts whilst away with over half (57 per cent) dreaming of sleeping in their own bed, according to research from travelsupermarket.com released today.
The nationwide survey among over 2000 Brits found that despite most (91 per cent) holidaymakers unwinding within two days of arriving at their destination they still hanker for familiar surroundings - nearly half (46 per cent) miss friends and family, almost a third (30 per cent) miss being surrounded by their own belongings and over a quarter (27 per cent) miss the company of their pets. The research also highlights the inlfuence of the digital age: Over a quarter (28 per cent) of those polled admit they miss having the world at their hands through the internet.
And the top factors influencing holiday destination? It appears the financial turmoil is resulting in cost conscious Brits looking for a bargain break with most (77 per cent) stating price as the most important factor. Location comes a close second (76 per cent) and almost half (49 per cent) look for sunnier climates to escape the traditional British weather. At the resort, friendly and welcoming staff, proximity to local amenities and knowledgeable staff are key factors to make a relaxing atmosphere. Almost three in five (59 per cent) have enjoyed their holiday destination so much that they have returned as they like the familiarity and 'home from home' feeling it brings.
And it would seem that the difference between the sexes extends to holiday longings. While men are more likely than women to miss the internet, UK TV and radio and cheering on their home football team, women are more likley to miss having the rest of their wardrobe at hand and a good old cup of British tea.
Bob Atkinson, travel expert at travelsupermarket.com, said: "While everyone looks forward to getting away from it all and heading off on holiday, it is natural to miss some of the more common aspects of everyday life such as friends, family and pets, as our research highlights.
"The opportunity to search for and book holidays that appeal to each individual is important. Drawing up a check list of what matters most before starting the holiday search is a good idea to avoid disappointment at missing something - and can save time. For some this could be childcare facilities, proximity to a beach or the opportunity to get a taste of local culture. For others it may be a bustling nightlife, an all inclusive package or the availability or warm sunny weather.
"Accommodation and holiday providers that can cater to consumer needs by listening to requests, providing personal touches for familiar, homely atmosphere and provide outstanding customer service whilst demonstrating value for money will have an advantage over their competitors during these difficult times."
The Top Five Creature Comforts Brits Miss Most:
- Their bed (57 per cent)
- Friends and family (46 per cent)
- Having your own things around you (30 per cent)
- Internet (28 per cent)
- Pets (27 per cent)
How To Feel At Home Whilst Away:
- Pack wallet size photographs of family and friends
- Bring your favourite travel size blanket
- Pack your favourite tea bags for an instant English cuppa
- Pack your favourite outfit and your most comfortable pjs
- Bring a phone card so you can keep in touch with those left behind
-Ends-
Sample: 2,179 British adults surveyed by Opinium Research, 24-28 October 2008
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