We’re a nation of “binge holiday makers”
Gone are the days when one holiday was enough to keep us going throughout the year and give us something to look forward to. Now most of us prefer to take multiple short breaks as opposed to one big break and are rapidly become a nation of “binge holiday-makers”.
Booking an annual holiday abroad used to be the source of much excitement and preparation throughout the year, but now it seems British holidaymakers need a stronger holiday-hit and are choosing several short breaks over one annual big trip, according to a survey by market researcher Mintel.
The study shows we are rapidly moving to a situation where we crave multiple and diverse holiday experiences throughout the year. One in four of us daydreams about buying a holiday home, but in reality the majority would rather spend their money on a variety of breaks, says the report. For this reason, renting private holiday homes is increasingly popular, as the huge variety on offer means there’s a home from home for all seasons.
Country manager for property rentals firm Holiday Rentals Greg Grant says: “We list a range of properties across the world, but while many of these properties are located in Europe, as investors have become more adventurous there are also now hundreds of properties in exotic and secluded locations.
“We also provide city centre apartments and unusual conversions, providing authentic and unique holiday experiences worldwide. Renting private holiday homes is not a new phenomenon either – Holiday-Rentals has been in business for over a decade and many Britons have been holidaying in this way for even longer.”
As we increasingly want not only more holidays, but more authenticity and flexibility on our breaks, self-catering holidays that provide a closer-to-the-action experience are soaring in popularity and growing at a faster rate than overseas holidays in general, according to Mintel.
As a result, thousands of Britons now own holiday homes and the choice of properties available is endless as there is something to suit every type of getaway, from activity to exotic.
Renting holiday homes direct from owners is also popular, as it provides huge savings on travel agent prices, as well as more space, privacy and flexibility than a hotel.
The countryside is also a favoured retreat for those on a short break, according to a report by Holiday-Rentals. It reveals that while city breaks are popular, rural retreats are now a favoured option for short holidays, with a third of respondents planning a short trip to the countryside this summer or autumn.
While owning a place in the city and country was once the preserve of the rich, many people now use their holiday time to enjoy the same lifestyle, the survey says.
You might be surprised to learn that those seeking a quick getaway looked no further than our very own green and pleasant land, which was the preferred destination for about a third of respondents planning a short rural retreat. Family favourite France was the next most popular choice, followed by Italy, Scotland, and Spain.
