21 November 2008

Holiday price the priority as recession bites - poll

The recession means that British holiday-seekers are going to be more cost conscious than ever before, a new study shows.

A survey of 2,000 people found that more than three quarters (77%) believe the price of their holiday is the most important factor.

Location comes a close second (76%) and almost half (49%) look for sunnier climates to escape the traditional British weather.    

In resort, friendly and welcoming staff, proximity to local amenities and knowledgeable staff are key factors to make a relaxing atmosphere, the poll found. 

Almost three in five (59%) have enjoyed their holiday destination so much that they have returned as they like the familiarity and ââ¬Ëœhome from homeââ¬â¢ feeling it brings.

But despite most (91%) holidaymakers unwinding within two days of arriving at their destination, they still hanker for familiar surroundings. Nearly half (46%) miss friends and family, almost a third (30%) miss being surrounded by their own belongings and more than a quarter (27%) miss the company of their pets. 

More than half (57%) dream of sleeping in their own bed, according to the research baased on a poll of 2,179 adults by Opinium Research for travelsupermarket.com released today.

And 28% of those polled admit missing having the world at their hands through the internet.

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 cup of British tea.

Bob Atkinson, travel expert at travelsupermarket.com, said: ââ¬ÅâœAccommodation 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.ââ¬~

by Phil Davies 

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• isn't this stating the obvious?
  
  

  Those of us who consider ourselves to be service professionals have known the key points held in this survey for years. Some things in our market may change but good old fashioned service and value for money never do.

  By Alexander Carraro, Friday, November 21, 2008