2019 - Villa Plus Blog

5 easy yoga poses to help you chill on your villa holiday

November 22, 2019October 18, 2019chiracshah

Want to kick your holiday relaxation up a notch? Then make sure you pack a yoga mat for your next villa getaway. With its peace and privacy, your sun-soaked villa garden is the perfect place to get your chakras aligned while working on your tan. Even better, you can cool off in your private pool afterwards!

To get you started, here are 5 beginner yoga poses to help you relieve those tight muscles and switch off your buzzing mind.* And exhale…

Child’s pose

This easy resting pose calms the mind, busts stress and stretches out the hips, thighs and ankles. And it’s great for winding down after a tiring day of exploration.

Start by sitting on your heels with your knees and feet together. Then roll your torso forward, lower your forehead to the ground and stretch your arms in front of you. Let your body release, breathe, and hold for as long as you like.

Warrior 1

A gentle backbend pose, Warrior 1 opens up the front body and strengthens your legs, arms and core.

Take a big step back with your right leg and go into a lunge with your left knee over your left ankle. Turn your right foot out 45 degrees and anchor your right heel firmly into the mat. Lift your chest, reach up your arms and gaze up to your thumb. Hold for 30-60 seconds and repeat on the other side.

Warrior 2

Warrior 2 is great for opening up your outer hips, inner thighs and groin.

Start with your feed about a leg length’s apart. Turn your right foot out 90 degrees and your left foot in slightly. Bend your left knee directly over your left ankle and extend your arms out to the sides with your palms facing down. Gaze out over your left arm, hold for 1 minute and then do it again on the other side.

Bridge pose

This pose gives your front and back a good stretch while extending the spine.

Lie on your back with your knees bent hip width apart directly over your heels. Press your feet into the mat and lift up your hips and bottom. Clasp your hands underneath your pelvis and press them into the ground. Hold for 30-60 seconds and then slowly roll your spine down onto the mat.

Tree pose

Tree is a great one-legged standing pose for beginners that can help you improve your balance and focus. What’s more, it’s great for strengthening your ankles, legs and core.

Stand with your feet together and weight distributed evenly. Engage your abs and slowly shift your weight onto your right foot. Lift your left foot and place it onto your inner right thigh. Bring your hands into the prayer position and focus your gaze on a fixed spot in front of you. Hold for 30 seconds and switch sides.

Looking for the ideal holiday to destress and get away from it all? Check out our biggest ever range of villas available for booking in 2020.

* If you have any health conditions or injuries, do seek medical advice before trying any of the yoga poses described in this article.

5 things you didn’t know you could do in Croatia

November 3, 2019November 5, 2019chiracshah

Think Croatia is just sun, sea and scenery? Think again. Here are 5 brilliant activities you never knew you could do in Istria, the most popular region.

1. Whizz through a canyon on a zip wire

Head to the town of Pazin to experience Zip Line Pazin Cave – an adrenalin-filled adventure you won’t forget in a hurry. After two short practice lines, you’ll fly down two long wires (220m and 280) that run 100m above the canyon below.

As you reach heart-racing speeds of up to 50km/h, you’ll take in spectacular views of this beautiful abyss through which Istria’s longest subterranean river flows. You’ll also get a good glimpse of the cliff-perched castle that’s the largest medieval fortress in the region.

2. Explore one of the world’s best-kept Roman amphitheatres

Pula Arena is one of the most popular attractions in Croatia. This ancient Roman amphitheatre is the 6^th largest in the world, as well as one of the best preserved. Built between 27BC and 68AD, gladiator fights were held within its huge limestone walls, drawing crowds of up to 20,000.

Today the arena hosts all sorts of cultural and sporting events, including the annual summer “Spectacvla Antiqva” which recreates those gladiatorial contests. And year-round you can enter the Arena’s underground chambers to enjoy museum exhibits about how olive oil and wine were made in the past.

3. Make a splash in the Med’s biggest wave pool

Aquapark Istralandia, Croatia’s first water park, opened in 2014. Covering more than 80,000 m², this aquatic paradise features 20 thrilling slides (including a 27m free-fall drop) and the largest wave pool in the Mediterranean.

Those who prefer a little less excitement can relax and unwind in the two-level hydromassage pool. And when you’re done with the water, you’ll find sand volleyball and badminton courts as well as plenty of bars and cafes.

4. Ride a train around an Istrian island

Sitting just off Istria’s coast, Brijuni Islands National Park is an extraordinary archipelago of two main islands and 12 smaller islets. The beautiful pine-covered Veliki Brijuni is the largest of them all and home to archaeological sites, landscaped gardens, a safari park and even dinosaur footprints!

You can book a day excursion to Veliki Brijuni from Fazana. After the short boat transfer to the eastern port, why not hop on the tourist train for a sightseeing tour round the island?

5. Taste some of the best olive oil there is

Croatia has a long tradition of growing and pressing olives for their oil. It may not produce anywhere near as much as Spain, but it’s recognised internationally for the quality of its extra virgin oils – particularly those made in Istria.

Agrolaguna, in the resort town of Porec, has 65,000 olive trees producing more than 100 tonnes of extra virgin oil a year. Make a visit to see the groves, tour the mill and sample its award-winning oils in the beautiful tasting room. Delicious!

Think Croatia could be the perfect destination for your next getaway? Take a look at our great range of holiday villas in Croatia.

Introducing Sicily: a fantastic new Villa Plus destination

October 6, 2019October 17, 2019chiracshah

Fascinating ancient ruins, beautiful beaches and awe-inspiring Mount Etna… Sicily has all the hallmarks of an unforgettable villa holiday. And that’s why we’ve just added it to our great range of destinations! To celebrate the launch, let’s take a look at what the largest Italian region and Mediterranean island has to offer.

Ancient history and charming towns

Italy has no shortage of historical wonders and Sicily is no exception. To begin with, there’s atmospheric Siracusa (Syracuse) on the south-eastern coast next to the glittering Ionian Sea. This ancient city is famous for its captivating archaeological park where you can step back in time and discover ruins like the monumental Greek theatre and intriguing Ear of Dionysus.

The southeast is also home to Val di Noto, one of the island’s 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. After the area was destroyed by a huge earthquake in 1693, charming new towns were built with striking Baroque-style architecture. Visit Noto, the most famous of them all, to climb the bell tower of Chiesa di San Carlo Borromeo and soak up the unrivalled rooftop views.

Active volcanoes and beautiful beaches

No trip to Sicily is complete without a visit to Mount Etna, the highlight of the island’s natural landscape. The largest active volcano in Europe, this spectacular peak stands over 9,000 feet high on the east coast. To reach the summit and marvel at the dramatic surroundings, jump in a cable car, book a 4×4 jeep excursion, or – if you’re an adventurous sort – hike from the base station!

For a more relaxing way to admire the island’s beauty, take a trip to one of the gorgeous beaches all around the coast. The small resort of Fontane Bianche, in the south east, is known for its fabulous stretch of powdery white sand and dazzling clear waters. Or head to nearby Calamosche, a quiet little sandy bay in Vendicari Nature Reserve that’s flanked by two rocky headlands and perfect for a spot of snorkelling.

Delicious food and delectable drink

With its Arabic, French and Greek influences, Sicily’s cuisine has something to delight all taste buds. Snack on Arancini, the famous rice balls bursting with ragu, pistachio nuts, cheese and spinach. Feast on a bowl of Pasta alla Norma, the island’s signature pasta dish featuring a rich and delicious sauce made with aubergine, tomatoes and salted ricotta. Or indulge in some infamous Cannoli, deep-fried crispy pastry tubes filled with creamy sweetened ricotta.

And then wash it all down with a glass of wine from one of the island’s vineyards. You’ll find plenty across Sicily growing its most well-known grape varieties, including the flagship red Nero d’Avola. Visit a few to admire the glorious views, enjoy some tastings and pick up a few bottles to take home as a reminder of your trip. Not that you’ll forget it in a hurry!

Tempted to spend your next villa holiday in this magical Italian island? Check out our brand new range of Sicily villas and be one of the first to book.

4 of the most photogenic spots in Puglia

October 1, 2019October 3, 2019chiracshah

The heel of Italy’s boot, Puglia is bursting with historical treasures, glorious beaches, natural wonders and pretty coastal towns. Here are four places in this fantastically scenic region that you and your camera won’t want to miss.

Castel del Monte

The striking medieval castle of Castel del Monte is one of Italy’s best-known cultural landmarks. Sitting atop a hill in Andria, this perfectly octagonal fortress was built by Emperor Frederick II in the 13^th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The castle’s white and pink limestone walls look like marble from a distance, which makes for some amazing photos against the blue sky. And you can climb up Tower 6’s spiral staircase to capture great aerial shots of the courtyard as well as panoramic snaps of the surrounding countryside.

2. The trulli of Alberobello

A picturesque small town in the Metropolitan City of Bari, Alberobello is a place like no other. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its centuries-old trulli – distinctive conical-roofed limestone dwellings that look straight out of a fairytale.

The town has over 1,500 of these unique buildings split across two areas: the more popular Rione Monti, and the quieter and smaller Aia Piccolia. A guided tour will give you plenty of chances to get some enviable pics, but why not book a night’s stay in one for the full trulli experience?

3. Alberobello market

It’s not just magical architecture that makes Alberobello a great place to get snap happy. The colourful weekly market is a feast for the eyes too, and the ideal way to taste of the town’s traditional life.

From 8am every Thursday morning, the day when the local shops are shut, you’ll find traders selling all sorts of wares: from delicious local cheeses and fresh herbs, to handmade wicker items, clothing and towels. The market is spread throughout the centre and Largo Martellotta, but head to Via Barsento Street, dedicated to food vendors, for the most photogenic scenes.

4. Grotte di Castellana

Love natural phenomena? Then take a trip to Grotte di Castellana, one of the best attractions in Puglia. Just a short drive from Alberobello, this spectacular limestone cave complex is 90 million years old and draws visitors from all over the globe.

You won’t be able to put down your camera during a guided tour through 3 kilometres of incredible stalactites, stalagmites, canyons and crystals, all given imaginative names by early explorers. And just when you think it can’t get any more picture-perfect, you’ll end up in Grotte Bianca (White Cave) – a breathtaking chamber with the most dazzling alabaster in the world.

Want to point your lens at Puglia’s fantastic attractions on your next villa holiday? Take a look at our great range of villas in Puglia.

4 of the best couples retreats

September 17, 2019September 17, 2019chiracshah

Now the school holidays are over, why not book a trip away for just the two of you? By jetting away off-peak, you’ll skip the crowds and save money on accommodation and air fares. Here are four small but fabulous villas that are just the ticket for a romantic couples getaway this autumn.

Villa Lefkippos in Gouves, Crete

Right in the centre of Crete’s northern coast is Villa Lefkippos. With its exposed stonework, arched windows and mix of contemporary and traditional furnishings, this beautiful 1-bedroom property is perfect for couples looking for both chic and charm. What’s more, you can rack up some lengths in the long private pool before chilling out together on the sun loungers.

You’ll find plenty to keep you occupied in the local area too. An unspoilt beach is just a 5-minute wander away, and there are plenty of great restaurants and tavernas in Gouves. Or take a trip to the historical resort of Hersonissos, where you can amble round the picturesque fishing harbour or enjoy a date night at one of its many bars and eateries.

Villa Morea in Old Skala, Kefalonia

Villa Morea is idyllic 1-bedroom hideaway near the southern coast of Kefalonia, the largest of the Greek Ionian islands. Set into the slopes near Old Skala, you can both unwind in its fantastic infinity pool while watching the sun set over the olive groves and glittering ocean below.

For some quality time outside the villa, visit the nearby peaceful fishing village of Katelios for an evening of wining and dining at a waterfront taverna. Or if you fancy a livelier atmosphere, the popular seaside resort of Skala offers trendy cocktail bars, authentic tavernas and 3 kilometres of sand-and-shingle beach flanked by fragrant pine forest.

Villa Dora in Sao Rafael, Algarve

Located in the picture postcard countryside near the Algarve’s southern coast, the 2-bedroom Villa Dora is the ideal choice for couples wanting some R&R. With its impressive pool, spacious terrace and lush lawn surrounded by colourful blooms, there are plenty of great spots to soak up the sun and enjoy each other’s company.

Just around the corner is the spectacular Sao Rafael Beach, with its stunning rock formations and rust-coloured cliffs. And you’ll also be within striking distance of Albufeira, where you can roam the Old Town’s cobbled streets before sipping a delicious cocktail at one of its many nightlife hotspots.

Villa Serena in Nissaki, Corfu

Villa Serena is found in a small seaside village in north east Corfu. It boasts two bright bedrooms, a vine-covered pergola, gorgeous treetop views and a poolside BBQ for rustling up an intimate alfresco dinner for two.

Not only that, but Villa Serena occupies a great central spot in Nissaki. You’ll be just a 10-minute stroll from its pretty cove, harbour and seafront tavernas. And if you’re feeling particularly intrepid, you can even hire a private motorboat to explore the neighbouring resorts and little tucked-away beaches along the coast.

Want to discover even more options for the perfect romantic escape? Take a look at our other villas for couples

5 top tips for keeping fit and healthy on holiday

September 3, 2019October 3, 2019chiracshah

Ah, holiday time. A chance to leave the stressful everyday routine behind and spend a few weeks indulging in endless food, drink, sun and relaxation.

But you don’t have to completely neglect your health and fitness while you’re away. Check out our 5 top tips for how to stay in great shape during your villa break, while still kicking back and enjoying yourself.

Eat mindfully

It’s hard to resist the lure of all the tasty cuisine on offer when we’re on holiday. Who could say no to another cooling scoop of that delicious gelato? But if you want to still fit into your favourite jeans when you get home, you’ll need eat consciously rather than on autopilot.

So balance out those naughty treats with healthier choices. Savour rather than scoff each mouthful. Don’t pile your plate too high. And instead of dining out every day, why not stay at your villa and whip up a wholesome feast with fresh produce from the local market?

Go easy on the booze

It’s not just holiday food that can wreak havoc with your waistline. Alcohol also packs a calorific punch and too many tipples will quickly pile on the pounds. What’s more, it can make you pee more often and lead to dehydration – which is bad news if you’re in a hot climate.

Instead of downing lots of drinks at once, pace yourself and try not to exceed the recommended maximum of 14 units a week. And if you’re watching your weight, choose your drinks wisely and consider swapping that calorie-laden wine or beer for a skinnier spritzer or shandy.

Keep active

After an exhausting few months at home, it’s tempting to spend all of your well-earned break lazing and lounging in the sun. But by staying active for some of the time, you’ll keep your fitness levels up and burn off those extra calories too.

Why not swim a few lengths of your villa’s private pool? Have a rally on your private tennis court? Or get out and explore the local area on foot or by bike? Just be careful to avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day.

Stay hydrated

We all know we should be drinking eight glasses of water a day. And it’s even more important to get plenty of H₂O while holidaying in the heat, as dehydration can lead to nasties like headaches, nausea, dizziness and even heatstroke.

To keep your water levels topped up, make sure you always carry a bottle with you and take regular slurps even if you don’t feel thirsty. You could also munch on yummy snacks with a high water content, like watermelon or cucumber.

Protect yourself from the sun

Most of us can’t wait to escape the typical British weather and soak up some rays in warmer climes. But too much UV light is is hazardous to our health, causing painful skin burns and even cancer.

To enjoy the sunshine safely, generously apply a good high factor sunscreen at least 15 minutes before going outside and reapply this regularly throughout the day. And when the sun is at its strongest, it’s best to seek out shade, wear a wide-brimmed hat and cover up with loose-fitting clothing.

7 easy ways to go green (and save money) on holiday

August 8, 2019August 8, 2019chiracshah

7 easy ways to go green (and save money) on holiday

Climate change. Plastic pollution. Food waste. These are all hot topics right now, and with good reason. But how can you care for the planet when you’re miles away from home? Well, it’s not as hard as you think. Here are 7 simple ways to protect the environment (and your wallet) on your next villa holiday.

Pack a refillable water bottle

BBC’s Blue Planet II woke us all up to the world’s devastating plastic problem. So do your bit and save some dosh by taking a refillable water bottle on holiday with you. Trendy stainless steel bottles are the most durable, best insulated and easiest to clean. But if you want a lighter and cheaper option, a BPA-free plastic bottle is the way to go.

Watch your energy and water use

Conserving energy and water are great ways to be eco-friendly during your villa holiday. Turn off the air conditioning, lights, TV and taps when you’re not using them. Take a quick and energising shower instead of a bath. Don’t run the dishwasher or washing machine until they’re full. And remember to unplug your gadgets when they’ve finished charging.

Bring some reusable bags

Like plastic bottles, single-use carrier bags are another big environmental offender. So make sure you pack some reusable ones for carrying your groceries, souvenirs and holiday gear. Tote bags are a good choice as they’re hardwearing, lightweight and foldable. They’ll hardly take up any space in your suitcase, either.

Explore by foot or bike

Motor vehicles are a major contributor to climate change and air pollution. So why not leave your hire car at the villa and explore the local area by walking or cycling? Many of our villas are in great central locations just a stone’s throw away from beaches, restaurants and other amenities. What’s more, you’ll save yourself the hassle and expense of parking – and burn off those extra holiday calories!

Eat out responsibly

Restaurants and cafés generate a huge amount of food waste and carbon emissions, so it’s worth being mindful when eating out. Try to dine at places that use local, organic ingredients that haven’t been shipped from the other side of the world. Avoid disposable containers and cutlery. And don’t let your eyes be bigger than your stomach and order more than you can manage.

Cook up your own storm

Instead of eating out every day, how about saving the environment and a wad of cash by self-catering? Head to the local grocery store or farmers market before whipping up a delicious feast using your villa’s kitchen or BBQ. You could even make your own yummy packed lunches to take out on day trips.

Recycle your rubbish

You don’t have abandon your recycling habits just because you’re on holiday. Rather than throwing all your waste into the same bin, sort it into categories like you would at home and drop it at the local recycling facilities before you leave. The planet will thank you, and you can travel home guilt-free.

6 reasons your next villa holiday should be in Lanzarote

August 2, 2019July 23, 2019chiracshah

6 reasons your next villa holiday should be in Lanzarote

Still not sorted this year’s summer getaway? Why not consider the fourth largest of the Canary Islands? With over 3 million tourists flocking to its shores each year, Lanzarote has something for adventure hunters, relaxation seekers and everyone in between. Here are 6 great reasons you should book a villa holiday to this fantastic Spanish destination right now.

Endless sunshine

It really doesn’t matter when you visit Lanzarote. The island has more than 300 days of sunshine every year thanks to its proximity to Africa and few tall mountains. If you book your villa holiday for August, you’ll bask in average daily temperatures of around 30°C (86°F). And there’ll be very little rainfall to dampen your holiday spirits, either.

Wonderful beaches

Lanzarote boasts mile upon mile of brilliant beaches. One of the most beautiful and popular is Papagayo Beach on the south coast, which offers glorious white sands and snorkel-friendly turquoise waters. But if you’re the more adventurous sort, wild and windy Famara Beach in the northwest is a surfer’s paradise with 5 kilometres of perfect waves to catch and ride.

Amazing landscapes

Known as the “Island of Volcanoes”, no trip to Lanzarote would be complete without exploring the spectacular Timanfaya National Park. Created by enormous eruptions in the 18^th century, this otherworldly interior region is full of awe-inspiring geological phenomena like craters, tunnels and geysers. You can even take a camel ride through the lunar-like landscape or enjoy a restaurant meal cooked by geothermal heat!

Delicious cuisine

The Canary Islands have plenty of local delicacies to tickle your taste buds, and Lanzarote is no exception. One of its most famous dishes is Papas Arrugadas, or “wrinkled potatoes”. These small potatoes are boiled skin-on in salty water, before being served with green (garlicky) or red (spicy) Mojo sauce. Other popular and mouth-watering offerings are Lapas (limpets), Pulpo a la Plancha (grilled octopus) and Estofado (meat stew).

Fabulous festivals

With a year-round calendar of exciting fiestas and festivals, there’s always a reason to celebrate on Lanzarote. If you visit in August, you’ll get to experience Fiesta de San Ginés – the annual major festival in honour of the island’s patron saint. You’ll find all sorts of fun in the capital of Arrecife, such as parades, processions and traditional island sports like Canarian sailing and wrestling. Not to mention an amazing firework display on the beach for the grand finale!

Great holiday villas

There’s no shortage of fantastic places to stay on Lanzarote. And with more than 160 holiday villas across six resorts, you’ll be spoilt for choice with our super selection here at Villas Plus. From cosy retreats for couples, to impressive properties big enough for the extended family, you’re bound to find exactly what you’re looking for. Even better, we still have some villas available for summer 2019.

So what are you waiting for? Browse our holiday villas in Lanzarote and book your summer escape now.

On the Gourmet Trail. Italy: Puglia

July 29, 2019August 2, 2019chiracshah

Taste a piece of Puglia at home with this delicious Orecchiette pasta with broccoli sauce.

Ingredients

12 ounces broccoli florets- cut or broken into very small florets about equal size

8 ounces short pasta- orecchiette pasta, penne, rigatoni, etc

2 tablespoons olive oil

6 garlic cloves- rough chopped

Generous pinch chili flakes

Generous pinch salt and pepper

1–2 anchovy, chopped (optional)

2 cups veggie or chicken broth

Garnish options- grated Parmesan or pecorino cheese, lemon zest, fresh basil ribbons, toasted pine nuts, toasted bread crumbs, truffle oil or kalamata olives- all optional.

Instructions

1. Steam small broccoli florets until very tender ( easily pierced with a fork) and set aside.

2. Cook pasta according to directions, and save some hot pasta water when you drain.

3. In a large pan, saute the garlic and chili flakes in the olive oil, over medium heat until fragrant and golden, about 2-3 minutes. Add the steamed broccoli, optional anchovy, salt, pepper and broth. Bring to a gentle simmer and start breaking apart the broccoli with a metal spatula into tiny pieces.

4. You want the broccoli to basically melt down into a “sauce”. Continue simmering gently, on low heat until half of the liquid evaporates and it becomes the consisancy of a thick sauce, about 10-15 minutes. It won’t be smooth-just broken down and tender.

5. Add the pasta. Toss well. Add more pasta water if you like it a little more saucy. Taste for salt, adding more along with pepper and the chili flakes.

6. Divide among bowls and top with any of the garnishes you like. Grated Parmesan adds depth and salt, Lemon zest adds a nice brightness, which I highly recommend and a drizzle of truffle oil elevates.

Enjoy!

How do you choose your next destination?

July 23, 2019July 23, 2019chiracshah

Have you booked your holiday? How did you decide where you were going? Did you spend hours thumbing through Instagram, checking out your friends’ pictures of sun-kissed legs set against the backdrop of an azure sea, or envying those influencers lounging by an infinity pool? Maybe you read an article about the latest holiday hotspot in one of the Sunday supplements? Or perhaps you’re returning to the same place you went to last year. After all, you had a great time, so why wouldn’t you want to return?

Here at Villa Plus, we wanted to find out the greatest influences when looking for our next holiday destinations. So, we surveyed 1,000 British adults to find out.

Instagram influence

One in five of us let our thumbs do the talking when we’re looking for our next holiday.

Scrolling through social media sure does make us feel envious, or shall we say, provides inspiration. Whether it’s travel bloggers in far-flung places or friends messing around pools in the grounds of gorgeous villas, social media certainly gives us lots of ideas when we’re looking for our next holiday destination.

And it’s women who are more influenced by social media than men. In fact, they’re three times more likely than men to choose a holiday based on something they’ve seen on social media. And 10% more likely to choose a holiday destination because they deem it to be “Instagram worthy”.

Finding that Instagrammable location is especially a priority for Geordies, with nearly a fifth of them stating it’s an important factor when choosing a holiday destination.

After all, what’s the point of going on holiday if you can’t make your friends jealous?!

Keeping it in the family

Despite the rising influence of social media, recommendations from friends and family remain the top factor when we’re looking for holiday inspiration, with over a third of Brits saying that they’re more likely to book a holiday at a location that their friends or family have stayed at and enjoyed.

Bagging a bargain

Us Brits love a bargain and finding a cheap deal certainly remains a factor when we’re looking for a holiday, particularly for men, who are nearly four times more likely to pick a holiday destination because of a special offer or because it has been reduced in price. Liverpudlians are particularly keen on a deal, with 42% stating that it would influence where they decide to go on holiday.

Sticking to tradition

A good few of us are repeat tourists – 10% of Brits like to return to a holiday destination they’ve enjoyed before. After all, if it ain’t broke, then don’t fix it! Men (20%) are nearly twice as likely as women (11%) to choose a holiday because they’ve been there before. This also tends to be true of older holiday makers, with more than a quarter of 55-64-year-olds (25.3%) returning to a favourite destination, compared to only 11% of 18-24-year-olds. As for around the UK, a quarter of Sheffield-based folks stated that the last holiday they booked was a return visit to a place they had stayed at before.

Chasing the sun

So, what other factors influence us when we’re looking for a holiday? Just over 23% of people from Edinburgh revealed they get holiday inspiration from newspaper and magazine articles, whereas 50% of Scousers list finding a holiday destination not too far from home as a top factor. After all, not everyone wants to waste days of their work holiday allowance travelling to their destination. Obviously, the weather is a big consideration for many of us, especially for Sheffield holiday makers, with over 62% of them stating that it was a major factor in their decision-making process.

Getting it booked

When it comes to booking, the majority of us (34%) prefer to book a holiday directly with the service provider, for example, booking villas with a dedicated villa holiday company. Surprisingly, only 8% of Brits use home-sharing or owner-letting sites, like Airbnb, to book their holidays. Perhaps we’re still disposed to trusting more established companies rather than individuals when it comes to such important decisions. Interestingly, over one in ten Brits booked their last holiday destination directly through social media.

It’s clear that social media is becoming more and more influential to people’s holidaying habits, but can anything really match a recommendation from a friend or family member? After all, it’s the job of influencers and travel bloggers to make their pictures look amazing, so how can you really be sure that a place is as Instagrammable as it looks? When it comes to family and friends, they’re more likely to give you the warts-and-all report of a destination, which might be why their recommendations influence our holiday decisions more than social media.

No matter how you found your holiday – whether it was through your Instagram feed, by following a friend’s recommendation or returning to a tried-and-tested location – we’re sure you’ll have an amazing time. Bonnes vacances!