British Over 50's Make Plans to Travel

Silver Surfers Lead the Holiday Charge

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. October 14, 2008

UNITED KINGDOM, AUgust 25, 2005. One in two over fifties (53%) are taking a holiday in the next six months - with 76% planning to travel within the next twelve months - according to a new report from the Jamaica Tourist Board.

With so many older people deserting Britain this summer, it appears that confidence in foreign travel is high - more positive news for the travel industry which has been thwarted by the threat of terrorism in recent months.

The desire of fifty some-things to travel abroad is attributable to the relatively low cost of foreign travel - 61% of those aged over 50 said the cost of holidays abroad is the main reason for leaving the UK. Similarly, 14% of the more senior tourists surveyed say a strong pound is a key factor in choosing a destination abroad, as Britons aim to make their money go further.

The study by the Jamaica Tourist Board reveals why British people choose to escape the UK for more exotic climates. The study asked a GB representative sample of 2,000 people what was the most important factor when choosing a holiday destination abroad - and looked in detail at the travel trends of the older generation.

Top factors for the over 50's when booking a holiday;

Relaxation: For the over fifties the most important factor when booking a holiday is relaxation. Perhaps newly retired or just keen to get away from the kids, 91% of those questioned cited this as key to a enjoyable holiday.

Sightseeing: 84% believe that the opportunity to learn about local history and culture is the important factor.

Weather: More than two thirds of people (73%) say they will go abroad in search of the sun. Clearly the temperamental weather effects people over the age of 50 more as so many claim this is a key reason to choosing a holiday destination.

Food: Wanting a change from their lifestyles in the UK, 63% want to travel to foreign climates to sample more exotic food and culture. This is especially important for older tourists, perhaps keen to have a more local experience whilst holidaying this summer.

Cost of the holiday: More than one in two people (61%) say cost still governs their decision when choosing a holiday destination.

And what isn't so important:

Strength of the pound - just 14% is bothered by this

Terrorism - Not put off by recent security alerts, just 12% take note

Child friendly - with the majority of their kids having already spread their wings only 8% still need to look for destinations with cribs and children's entertainment.

Visiting a trendy and up and coming destination is important to 0% of senior travellers, not phased by fashionable destinations.

Elizabeth Fox at the Jamaica Tourist Board said; "With the opportunity to travel outside of school holidays, the over fifties can take advantage of cheaper holidays and destinations that aren't crawling with tourists. With such a laid back atmosphere, Jamaica is the ideal destination for the 91% of people who look for a relaxing break - the only serious decisions to be made are whether to hit the beach or sip cocktails by the pool.

Each year over one million visitors flock to Jamaica to experience our exciting resort centres: Kingston, Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, Negril, Port Antonio and the South Coast."