Grey skies, family dramas and turkey basting cited as top reasons to skip Christmas in the UK.
An estimated 5 million Britons are planning to escape the weather and family politics this Christmas by jetting off to sunnier climes, based on a survey of 10,000 UK holidaymakers.
Research by insurance and travel specialist Staysure reveals that more than two thirds (68 per cent) of people put the weather at the top of their list of reasons for the great festive getaway, followed by avoiding having to cook Christmas dinner (30 per cent). One in five is keen to skip the stress of hosting family and friends (20 per cent) and steer clear of family politics (13 per cent).
The survey also revealed the nation’s top Christmas travel destinations for December 2015. The Canary Islands remain a firm favourite for short haul winter sun, while Florida, Sydney and New York top the list for long haul destinations.
For those staying home during the festive period – one in five cannot get away due to family obligations, while one in ten feel they must stay home to look after their pets.
Top 10 Christmas and New Year destinations
1. Lanzarote
2. Gran Canaria
3. Algarve
4. Fuerteventura
5. Florida
6. Sydney
7. Malta
8. Barcelona
9. New York
10. Majorca
Chris Rolland, CEO from Staysure said: “While the festive period can be a stressful time for many, more of us are taking advantage of the fantastic bargains to be had at this time of year to get away from it all. That said, the research suggests that UK holidaymakers are not afraid to splash out on extra special trips at this time of year, with 38 per cent planning to spend over £1,000 per person.”
Photo caption: Lanzarote.
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
