'Gap Years' for mums and dads

A recent Ramblers Worldwide Holidays survey has revealed a number of important trends in the walking holidays market. Tony Maniscalco, Marketing Manager for the operator says, “many of our clients over 45 are playing ‘catch up’ with their sons and daughters who have enjoyed gap years whilst studying at universities and colleges. Some, felt they had missed out on the opportunity of travelling to diverse and interesting places throughout the world and experiencing different people and cultures.”

The survey shows that with reasonable disposable income clients are determined to enjoy the fruits of their labours and travel as often and widely as possible.

Walking holidays are a firm favourite because they not only give clients the opportunity to experience exciting and stimulating destinations at a leisurely pace but have added health benefits.

“Now anyone, irrespective of age – can play catch up and fill that vital gap!”, says Tony Maniscalco.

Single without the Stigma

Over 30% of Ramblers Worldwide Holidays’ clients enjoy the experience of travelling alone for a range of personal or family reasons.

Tony Maniscalco says “our survey shows that single travellers don’t want any special attention but simply seek the friendship, safety and the camaraderie of a group holiday - particularly if they are divorced or bereaved.”

Tony Maniscalco added, “most people interviewed said that they preferred the ‘discreet anonymity’ of being single on this sort of holiday – avoiding the ‘you are single’ status often trumpeted by other travel companies and the potential stigma associated.”

Clients, who were travelling alone, liked the fact that they had the choice to make contact and form friendships with whomever they liked without any pressure.

And, there’s no shortage of choice when it comes to walking the world.

Ramblers Worldwide Holidays offers over 200 holidays in over 70 countries including everything from Botswana and Jordan to The Galapagos Islands and Montenegro.

For more information, log on to Ramblersworldwideholidays.co.uk.