The rise of the partner: Modern Brits prefer outings with friends over partners. Who would you most like to go on holiday with?
As millions of Brits start planning and booking their getaways for 2024, a new survey shows that the majority (63 percent) would rather go out with their friends than their partners.
Eight in 10 Brits actively choose to book holidays with friends, while 62 percent prefer it to trips with their family, the findings show.
Another 87 percent say weekends and mini-vacations with friends can be better than trips with their loved one or family.
The research was conducted by Leonardo Hotelswhich ranked the 15 best things about a ‘mate-cation’.
According to the 2,000 Brits surveyed, laughter tops the list (57 percent), followed by good old gossip (second, 42 percent) and having time to actually talk and bond (third, 40 percent).
New research from Leonardo Hotels shows that the majority (63 percent) of Brits would rather go away with their friends than their significant other
Having ‘in jokes’ came fourth (39 percent), followed by staying up late (fifth, 33 percent) and visiting the venues together (sixth, 32 percent).
Shopping trips and visiting local bars ranked joint seventh (29 percent), while others preferred getting ready together in the evening (eighth, 27 percent) and enjoying the first drink of the day (ninth, 24 percent).
The rankings were rounded out by dancing and taking selfies (joint tenth, 22 percent), spa days (11th, 21 percent), uploading photos to social media (12th, 17 percent) and chatting over breakfast in bed (13th, 17 percent). 16 percent).
According to the research, 78 percent of Brits said their best holidays were with their friends, with the average person taking two friends trips a year.
Nearly two-thirds (61 percent) say they experience more stress after a family outing than before they went away. In contrast, 73 percent return more relaxed after a break with friends.
Meanwhile, 82 percent consider their friendship group their family, while another 86 percent agree that friendship is the most important thing in life.
Nearly one in five (19 percent) feel closer to their best friend than their partner, with 88 percent admitting that their best friend knows them better than their partner.
According to the research, 73 percent of Brits return from a holiday with friends feeling relaxed, compared to 61 percent on a family holiday
Suzanne Cannon, head of marketing at Leonardo Hotels UK and Ireland, said: ‘The research shows how important friendship is to Brits, as six in 10 would rather enjoy a mini break with their friends than with their partner.
‘For those planning a mating in 2024, look no further. Our 49 hotels in Britain are perfectly located in city centers across Britain, making them the perfect base for friends who enjoy a night out on the town or a day of shopping.
‘Or, for those who prefer a relaxing weekend away, our exclusive, comfortable dream beds and room service guarantee an ultimate cozy evening among friends.’
Other hotels are available for partner cations.