Planning a summer trip brings choices. Whether we love the beach, wildlife, road trips, or spiritual places, there is something for everyone. We think about our budget, weather, and safety as we choose where to stay and what to do. But despite any worries, the excitement of exploring new places and making memories fills us with anticipation.
To gauge the travel mood of readers, Outlook Traveller conducted a summer holiday poll on Instagram. The 24-hour survey helped us understand travellers' summer preferences as they prioritise budget and balmy getaways amidst the ever-expanding "travelscape," which is replete with options.
With 35 per cent of travellers yearning for the salty breeze and sandy shores, beach destinations are the second most preferred picks. However, a road trip is where people find their comfort zones, with 42 per cent saying yes. Meanwhile, 15 per cent seek solace at wildlife sanctuaries. Eight per cent have voted in favour of spiritual places as their ideal summer stops.
Amidst this myriad of choices, accommodation becomes essential for weary travellers. While 20 per cent like the comfort of plush hotels, others (23 per cent) find solace in the warmth of homestays. However, camping appears to be a perfect package for adventurous souls (50 per cent). Hostels tick off all boxes for those (7 per cent) seeking affordable avenues and open spaces.
When choosing activities, travellers prefer a soothing experience that keeps them close to nature and lets them soak in the scenic views. For 61 per cent, the call of the mountains is irresistible, as they choose hiking in the hills over other activities. Yet, about 25 per cent are interested in trying water sports to beat the heat. And then, 14 per cent of beach enthusiasts have a thing for sand, surf and shores, as they choose 'beach hopping' as the most suitable activity to try in summer.
Today's ever-evolving travel circuit ensures that journeying does not burn a hole in travellers' pockets. So, budget influences the itinerary of a summer getaway or a travel plan in general. And our readers could not agree more. For 48 per cent of them, budget constraints loom large, and planning a reasonably priced holiday is no less than wish fulfilment.
Other concerns include the fear of overcrowded locales, as 26 per cent pointed to the increased tourist footfall deterring exploration. Meanwhile, the weather is another spoilsport for 6 per cent of the surveyees who underline it as an obstacle while planning a vacation. The survey also noted that safety is another top priority for travellers, with 20 per cent echoing the concern.
