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Growing trend for solo holidays

3rd April 2014 Print

Jet2holidays has revealed an increasing trend of people choosing to take holidays alone, bringing a whole new meaning to the word ‘Selfie.’

Following an amazing 66 per cent increase in bookings by solo travellers this year with Jet2holidays, the package holiday experts conducted research with over 2,000 people within the UK to look into reasons why more people are choosing to go it alone. The findings reveal over half of us (51%) crave the independent experience, with almost a fifth recently turning to a ‘Selfie’ holiday within the last twelve months.

48 per cent of mums questioned, and a huge 68 per cent of dads, said they would like to holiday alone in the future. The biggest reason for parents – 36 per cent of mums and 42 per cent of dads – to take a ‘Selfie’ is to simply have some time for themselves, with the next being to get some much needed rest! Other motivations included getting involved in hobbies and interests and trying something new.

However, on the flip side, the survey revealed that despite craving some ‘me time’ abroad and a well-earned rest, over 30 per cent of people surveyed would feel too guilty about leaving the family behind so wouldn’t consider a ‘Selfie’ trip. In terms of the parent split, dads (45%) would feel slightly guiltier than mums (39%).

Other factors stopping people travelling alone include the stigma associated with it, people not liking being on their own, the cost and not having the time. Also, 5 per cent of mums and 12 per cent of dads admitted their partner wouldn’t trust them to holiday alone!

Leading psychologist and psychotherapist Corinne Sweet says: “These findings are really interesting as everyone, especially busy mums and dads, need and deserve a bit of 'me time'; to relax, unwind, take stock and reassess. We all need space to be with ourselves, to make our own plans, to have adventures, face challenges, or simply to have some peace and quiet. You want to read that book, write that story, or see that site without being interrupted.

“The stress of 24/7 modern family life can mean people need a real break away from loved ones – especially if you have different ideas about holidays. Then, you can return refreshed, renewed, happier, healthier and with more energy and verve to face life's challenges.”