Economic storm clouds don’t deter holiday bookings

Despite the credit crunch the majority of Brits are not worried about cutting the cost of their holidays according to an independent study by YouGov. The research, commissioned by travel website celticcastles.com, revealed fifty-seven per cent of people identify factors other than cost as their top consideration when booking a holiday, with alternative factors including the weather, tranquillity and proximity to cultural attractions.

The findings also dispel the myth that Brits flock to destinations popular with fellow countrymen – one in four say this is the last thing on their mind when booking.

Looking after the planet is also a low priority. Just one per cent of the 2,091 people polled regard their carbon footprint as the most important factor – and shockingly 23 per cent of 18-24 year olds relegate it to the bottom of their concerns.

The research has been commissioned by online travel company Celtic Castles, which offers unique castle accommodation in 85 exclusive venues across the UK, Ireland and France. Its founder, Roger Masterson, believes that the findings reflect his experience during 2008 of Brit’s being unwilling to sacrifice their holidays.

He said: “People aren’t spending less - they just want more for their money. The travel market is more competitive than ever which is an incentive for travel businesses to up their game without compromising on quality.

“The internet puts a phenomenal range of holiday opportunities at people’s fingertips – the days of being restricted to high street package breaks are over. People want more to show for their trips than a tan – it’s about cultural experiences and personal satisfaction.”

Regional variations also highlight changing attitudes within the UK. According to the research, Scottish holiday makers are the least concerned about cost when booking a trip – and more likely to pick a destination for its cultural attractions.

Londoners fared worst on the environmental question, with almost one in five saying their carbon footprint was the least important issue.