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Fifth of Brits enjoy holiday romance

8th February 2011 Print

Romance has blossomed for more nearly a quarter (23%) of holidaymakers, according to research from AA Travel Insurance.

Those aged between 25 and 34 are most likely to have enjoyed a holiday ‘fling' (25%) although such romantic encounters seem rarely to stand the test of time.

In fact, more than two-thirds (68%) of those who did experience a holiday romance never met their partner again, even though some kept in touch for a time.  Of them, half described their relationship as a ‘five-minute wonder' and the other half said it was ‘fantastic' to have a ‘no-strings' affair.

Some (13%) said they fell ‘madly in love' and met did meet again, but still the relationship didn't develop further.

Teresa Brewer, manager of AA Travel Insurance, suggests that for many, it's not just the pressures of home and work that are left behind, but inhibitions too: opening the doors to a romantic encounter.

"It's clear that most holiday romances are just that - they don't go any further because things you might share when on holiday just wouldn't or couldn't work when you get home.

"But occasionally a spark is struck that turns into the long-term flame of love - in fact, nearly a fifth (18%) went on to form a long-term relationship while a surprisingly high number (7%) say they met their lifetime partner while on holiday."

In fact, older respondents are most likely to have made the most of a holiday romance when younger, with just over 11% of those aged 60 or over saying they had met their lifetime partner during a holiday.

Says Teresa Brewer: "I believe that is a reflection of changing opportunities to develop a romance.  When those aged 60 were young, they didn't have the benefit of social websites or the club scene that we have today so a holiday presented a good opportunity to meet someone special."

However, things don't always turn out so well with a few (3%), mostly women, saying that it was the ‘worst thing that could have happened'.

"Holidays really can throw up the unexpected - including the possibility of meeting your perfect partner.  But whether that happens or you just enjoy a short holiday encounter, you'll want to be sure you can enjoy your hard-earned leisure time and make the most of the opportunities that come along.  For most, that will be simply enjoying new experiences and seeing new sights.

"However, it really is important to make sure you have decent travel insurance because sometimes the unexpected may be less welcome: and that's when insurance can make a real difference."