Over-50s leading holiday boom

More than half of those aged over 50 plan to take a holiday in the next six months, with 76% planning to travel within the next year, new research shows.

The desire of ‘50 some-things’ to travel abroad is attributable to the relatively low cost of foreign travel – 61% of those aged over 50 said the cost of holidays abroad is the main reason for leaving the UK.

Similarly, 14% of the more senior tourists surveyed say a strong pound is a key factor in choosing a destination abroad, as Britons aim to make their money go further.

The study by the Jamaica Tourist Board reveals why British people choose to escape the UK for more exotic climates. The study asked a representative sample of 2,000 people what was the most important factor when choosing a holiday destination abroad – and looked in detail at the travel trends of the older generation.

Top factors for the over-50’s when booking a holiday:

*Relaxation: For the over-50s the most important factor when booking a holiday is relaxation. Perhaps newly retired or just keen to get away from the children, 91% of those questioned cited this as key to an enjoyable holiday.

*Sightseeing: 84% believe that the opportunity to learn about local history and culture is the important factor.

*Weather: More than two thirds of people (73%) say they will go abroad in search of the sun. The temperamental UK weather effects people over the age of 50 more as so many claim this is a key reason to choosing a holiday destination.

*Food: Wanting a change from their lifestyles in the UK, 63% want to travel to foreign climates to sample more exotic food and culture. This is especially important for older tourists, perhaps keen to have a more local experience whilst holidaying this summer.

*Cost of the holiday: More than one in two people (61%) say cost still governs their decision when choosing a holiday destination.

What’s not so important:

*Strength of the pound – just 14% is bothered by this

*Terrorism – Not put off by recent security alerts, just 12% take note

*Child friendly – with the majority of their children having already spread their wings only 8% still need to look for destinations with crèches and children’s entertainment

*Visiting a trendy and up and coming destination is not important to any senior travellers.

The Jamaica Tourist Board’s Elizabeth Fox said: “With the opportunity to travel outside of school holidays, the over-50s can take advantage of cheaper holidays and destinations that aren’t crawling with tourists.”

Report by Phil Davies