Forget the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Taj Mahal and Niagara Falls – a large number of those over 50 admit the only places they have managed to visit so far in their lifetime are Big Ben and the Eiffel Tower, according to the research.
Many Britons over 50 have seen less than half of the top iconic sights of the world, according to a new study by the UK’s leading holiday rental specialists HomeAway.co.uk.
Forget the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Taj Mahal and Niagara Falls – a large number of those over 50 admit the only places they have managed to visit so far in their lifetime are Big Ben and the Eiffel Tower, according to the research.
The findings come as HomeAway.co.uk launch ‘Places To See Before You Die’ a new interactive game showcasing some of the world’s must-see attractions and destinations.
Using a checklist that included Great Wall of China, Statue of Liberty, the Pyramids, the Taj Mahal, the Niagara Falls and the Leaning Tower of Pisa, most of those questioned said they had only seen one or two. Sights closer to home such as Big Ben and the Eiffel Tower are the two most popular choices for the not so adventurous over 50s.
One user explained: “Many places are on my bucket list but time and my lifestyle get in the way. I go past Big Ben on my way to work and I have seen the Eiffel tower on a weekend to Paris, but that’s about it so far. If I’m going to go somewhere further afield, I’d rather it was a beach.”
Another admitted: “As you get older it gets even harder to go out of your comfort zone – however, I feel guilty that I am not more adventurous.”
Erica Chang, Regional Director of HomeAway.co.uk said: “Whilst we were quite surprised by the outcome of this study, we understand that people can become overwhelmed by the huge choice of holiday destinations and simply stick to what they know.
HomeAway.co.uk’s ‘Places to See Before You Die’ analyses user profiles and interests to create a bespoke travel plan intended to inspire you and encourage to travel outside of their comfort zone.”
“We believe people will be pleasantly surprised by their personal passport and be more aware of some of the more unusual destinations around the world that are there for people to discover. Whether they want to visit ancient worlds or modern cities, majestic mountains or stunning beaches, massive museums or iconic architecture, we’ve got some amazing and different ideas that can help create an ultimate travel bucket list. We hope it encourages some travellers to go out of their comfort zone,” she added.
Photo caption: A large number of those over 50 admit the only places they have managed to visit so far in their lifetime are Big Ben and the Eiffel Tower, according to the research.
Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales.
She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.
