Half of Ireland is packing its bags for a summer getaway this year! And where is everyone going? The overwhelming favourite is mainland Europe, with 62% of holidaymakers planning a trip to the continent.
Young people and families are most likely to have a summer getaway this year, with 57% of those aged 16-24, and 55% of people with children heading away. For both of these groups, Mainland Europe is the strong preference – three-quarters of the younger group and 65% of families are heading there.
Interestingly, it seems Irish holidaymakers are planners rather than last minute merchants. The research didn’t show a big rush of last-minute bookings. Back in May, 47% had already locked in their plans, and that number only nudged up to 56% by July.
When it comes to all-time favourite spots, Spain is the undisputed champion, with 75% of people saying they’ve holidayed there before. Many of us are fortunate enough to have travelled further afield, with half of the population having taken a trip to the USA, 23% venturing to Asia, and 17% making the long haul to Australia.
Of course, there’s no need to go abroad when there are so many fantastic places to holiday at home! About one in six holidaymakers (17%) are opting for a “staycation” in Ireland this year. This is an especially popular choice for the over-65 crowd, with 29% of them choosing to holiday domestically.
When staying at home, where have people holidayed in the past? In a repeat of the All Ireland Final, Kerry prevails again! 69% of people have previously holidayed in the Kingdom, compared to 54% who have visited the beautiful hills of Donegal.
For more details, please contact kieran.oleary@ipsos.com
