Friends' travel pics inspire holidays
It seems that pictures of bikini-clad celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Coleen Rooney have little to offer in the way of holiday inspiration, as according to TravelSupermarket, it’s the more realistic snaps of our friends’ holidays that turn thoughts towards our next getaway.
TravelSupermarket’s 2013 Travel Trends Tracker reveals the importance we place on recommendations from our friends when it comes to holiday planning, with over a third admitting their mates influence their destination choice.
Seeking advice from people you know is a great place to start and looking at their holiday snaps give you the real picture – not an edited version
The extensive study of 5,000 holidaymakers shows that a further six per cent are influenced by their friends’ photos on Facebook and other social networks, while only one per cent makes their decision based on celebrity holiday hot spots.
Younger generations (those aged between 18 and 29) are the most likely to consider photos on Facebook a reliable resource. However, as with other age groups, online comparison and reviews sites prove to be everyone’s most popular port of call.
Bob Atkinson, travel expert from TravelSupermarket, said: “Holiday research is absolutely vital. We want to be sure that our holiday will meet our expectations and we like to get a feel for new destinations and resorts before we commit.
“This is easier than ever because we can get inspiration and advice online at the click of a button – but the key is to find a trusted source.
“Seeking advice from people you know is a great place to start and looking at their holiday snaps give you the real picture – not an edited version.
"However, tools such as price comparison websites can also help by ensuring you’re getting the best deal and letting you evaluate all your options before booking the best holiday for you and your family.”
Despite only 12 per cent of holidaymakers being inspired by dedicated travel programmes on television, TravelSupermarket has noticed that TV series do impact searches on its site.
The X Factor ‘Judges Houses’ episodes saw searches to Las Vegas soar by 236 per cent, after it was featured on the show in October last year.
Meanwhile searches to the coastal resort of Benidorm were nearly double their normal levels during the fifth series premier of the popular holiday show, of the same name, last year.
Just over a quarter of holidaymakers are still influenced by brochures, while face-to-face recommendations from travel agents are important for nine per cent of us. .
Bob added: “If you have questions when researching online you can engage with online travel providers by phone and in some cases in person by visiting their retail outlets where experienced staff can help answer your queries.
“Some companies also offer online chat assistance making it easier than ever to get expert advice while benefitting from the choice and prices offered by the web.”
For cheap 2013 holiday deals click here now!
FemaleFirst @FemaleFirst_UK
Tagged in Travel Friendship