MasterCard reveals holidaymakers planning a “staycation” in their home country will more than double this year.
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Waterloo, Belgium, June 4, 2014 – Holidaymakers across Europe are expected to spend more vacations in their own country this year. MasterCard’s holiday travel trends findings from a Euromonitor survey show that 2014 will see a 114% increase in ‘staycations’ by Europeans – more than doubling the number of people who holidayed in their own country in 2013. These anticipated 1.14 billion homestay holidays suggest Europeans are sticking to what and where they know when it comes to making the most of time-off. France tops the poll of nations where travellers will explore rest and relaxation in their own country rather than abroad, followed by Spain, Germany, the UK and Ukraine.
MasterCard’s analysis of travel habits shows how far we’re embracing home-grown holidays: a separate piece of research by the European Commission found that in 2013, over two in five Europeans spent their main holiday in their own country last year, with less than a fifth of us venturing outside of the EU[1].
The same report found that Europeans look for familiarity and reassurance right from the start: over half (56%) of us say recommendations from friends, colleagues and relatives are most important when planning trips. And even when we do reach our holiday destination, we continue to look for reliability and comfort in our pastimes and activities: nearly half (46%) of Europeans chose a beach holiday over more adventurous pursuits in 2013.
Commenting on these 2014 holiday trends, Javier Perez, President MasterCard Europe, says, “With so much to offer in Europe, it’s unsurprising that holidaymakers are set to remain in their own countries. Europeans seem to avoid the supposed anxiety of leaving their comfort zone, and tend to explore what is closest to them. But no matter how near or far we travel for our well-earned break, exploring holiday destinations and broadening horizons needn’t be a stressful experience.”
“The fact Europeans are looking for reassurance on their travels – whether relaxing on the beach or climbing a mountain – shows our need for a reliable and safe companion when travelling,” continues Javier Perez. “In response to the findings, we remind all travellers that holidaying can always be safe and simple.” Here are MasterCard’s top tips to keep your journey smooth and finances secure along the way:
Try new ways to pay. Travellers’ cheques are on their way out. Cashless payment methods, including mobile and contactless, can make your life easier when travelling Make the most of your card. Know the services linked to your card, like security, travel and leisure services that could make your trip even more special Call ahead. Tell your bank or financial institution where you’re heading so they can help you faster if anything goes wrong Be prepared. Make a list of the cards you’ll have with you, and save the ‘Lost & Stolen Card’ number to your phone if you need to block it. Live Priceless. Whether a staycation or a travelling abroad, check out www.priceless.com and find special offers and experiences that can make your trip even better.
Notes to editors
Passport Research conducted by Euromonitor International and analysed by MasterCard Europe. Passport is Euromonitor International’s global market analysis which analyses the industry in countries around the world. The 2014 travel forecast analysis covers the following countries: Albania, Andorra, Austria, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Kosovo, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Malta, Moldova, Montenegro, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine, United Kingdom.
Additional research carried out on behalf of the European Commission: Flash Eurobarometer 392 – TNS Political & Social:Preferences of Europeans Towards Tourism – February 2014.
About MasterCard
MasterCard (NYSE: MA), www.mastercard.com,is a technology company in the global payments industry. We operate the world’s fastest payments processing network, connecting consumers, financial institutions, merchants, governments and businesses in more than 210 countries and territories. MasterCard’s products and solutions make everyday commerce activities – such as shopping, traveling, running a business and managing finances – easier, more secure and more efficient for everyone. Follow us on Twitter @MasterCardNews,join the discussion on the Cashless Pioneers Blog and subscribe for the latest news on the Engagement Bureau.
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[1] Preferences of Europeans Towards Tourism – February 2014