After months of enforced separation, the desire for families to stay connected is causing sweeping changes to the priorities of holidaymakers booking a break in 2022.
There has been a surge in the popularity of 3G holidays – trips taken with three generations of one family – and according to recent research by Clayton Hotels a whopping 84 per cent of NI people believe multi-generational holidays are beneficial for everyone. This is the highest percentage across all UK regions.
The research suggests the trend is set to continue with over 43 per cent expecting multi-generational holidays to increase in popularity in coming years.
Almost 40 per cent of those surveyed in NI have vowed to take more 3G trips during the next five years.
Nowadays, with both a hectic modern family life and busy workloads, a 3G getaway can allow us to escape, relax and create memories to cherish.
After the painful separations of lockdown, 47 per cent of local people say the pandemic made them value time with extended family more.
As we emerge from the pandemic, 36 per cent are looking forward to a 3G holiday helping them create lasting memories while 33 per cent in NI believe multi-generational will help strengthen family relationships.
Meanwhile, almost a quarter of those questioned locally believe a 3G holiday provides a great opportunity for parents to relax together while the grandparents spend time with the kids.
Award-winning travel writer Fionn Davenport says the research shows a real shift from the aspiration of getting away from it all to getting away with everyone.
He said: “If the past two years have taught us anything, it is to cherish our families and the time we get to spend with them.
“So many of us have happy memories of childhood holidays spent with parents, grandparents (as well as uncles, aunties and cousins) and the findings from Clayton Hotels show that this trend is here to stay and will even increase in coming years.
“This is clearly related to the experience of the last two years. It’s all about staying connected with our families and getting out there to explore what’s on offer, booking a trip that everyone can enjoy in 2022.
“There are so many great staycation destinations on our doorstep – and hotels in prime locations are an ideal base for family getaways.
“Clayton Hotels are perfect for a 3G trip, with many based in the heart of vibrant cities across the UK and Ireland.
“You have plenty of space for adults to relax and children to explore, both inside and outside the hotel.
“You won’t have to look far for activities for everyone. They also have fantastic menus to choose from to keep all the family happy, even the fussy eaters!”
This page is available to subscribers. Click here to sign in or get access.
