Holiday Countdown Begins 16 Days Before Departure…

The average holidaymaker from Manchester starts to look forward to their break 16 days ahead of their departure, and begins to lose focus at work five days in advance.

 

 

The findings emerged following a study of 2,000 holidaymakers which also found two thirds of UK adults have returned from a holiday feeling like they’ve not had a break.

 

 

Having no time to relax, immediately being thrust back into the thick of it at work and being unable to switch off are the most common reasons for not feeling the benefit of a getaway.

 

 

 

Over indulging on food and drink and having a holiday that doesn’t quite live up to expectations also leave us eager for another break.

 

 

But a typical ‘holiday high’ lasts for five days before fading away – with bad weather and knowing your next break is ‘ages away’ among the things which bring us crashing back to reality.

 

 

 

The study was commissioned by Virgin Holidays, who have launched over 300 new ‘Experiences’, enabling travellers to personalise and get the most from their holidays.

 

 

Thirty-five per cent said their holiday starts the moment they leave work for the last time prior to their getaway.

 

 

Four in ten said it begins once they are on the plane, ferry or train and headed towards their holiday destination.

 

 

But for 41 per cent, it doesn’t start until they arrive at their accommodation.

 

 

Thirteen per cent admit their break doesn’t begin until they’ve gotten through passport control.

 

 

The research also identified what Mancunians want from a holiday:

 

• Having a beach tops the list of requirements for 18-29 year olds, while ‘having a laugh with mates’ and getting a suntan feature too.
• Along with a good nightlife, adrenaline sports and a destination that looks good on their social media profile.
• Those in their 30s are more interested in good food, seeing cultural landmarks and having plenty of things for the kids to do.
• Escaping the daily grind is important too as is having time to read a book and hot weather.
• For people in their 40s places of natural beauty are among the key holiday requirements, while being away from the main tourist hot spots is also important.
• Fifty year olds seek holidays that give them a chance for some peace and quiet, feature nice walks and organised trips.
• Coastal views are integral to what those in their 60s want from a break, while places of historical interest are significant too in addition to having stunning natural surroundings.