Press Release
Despite the credit crunch the majority of West Country residents 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 sixty-two 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 research also revealed those from the South West are more likely than people from any other English region to choose a destination away from their fellow countrymen.
However, looking after the planet ranks as a low priority. Just one per cent of the 2,091 people polled saw 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 experiences in 85 exclusive venues across the UK, Ireland and France. Its founder, Roger Masterson, believes that the findings reflect his experience during 2008 of Brits being unwilling to sacrifice their holidays.
“People aren’t spending less – they just want more for their money. The travel market is more competitive than ever and this should be 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.
ENDS
About the Research:
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 2,091 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between 13th – 15th May 2008. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all GB adults (aged 18+).
About Celtic Castles
Celtic Castles is an online travel company working exclusively with more than 80 castles across the UK, Ireland and France. The largest business of its kind in the UK, it specialises in the provision of overnight castle accommodation, private functions and parties, family gatherings, weddings and corporate events, with the common theme of a fantastic castle experience.
Celtic Castles is unlike a typical travel agent; customers are not charged a mark-up. The price displayed on the site is the price paid directly to the castle – there are no additional fees to use the service.
The business, based in Halifax, West Yorkshire, was founded in 1997 by entrepreneur Roger Masterson.
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