Michael Palin inspires Brits abroad

 

New research into the habits of the modern traveller revealed that Brits have become a nation of Michael Palins.

Travel Insurer Churchill, surveyed 2,000 holidaymakers and found that Brits are an amazingly cultured bunch.

Just like the ex-Monty Python and presenter of hit travel show Himalaya, the majority of Brits like to explore the local delights while away on their hols.

And thanks to the funny man, the classic picture of the yobbish Brit abroad – complete with sunburnt belly and union jack shorts – seems to be disappearing fast from the holidaymaker’s horizon.  Instead “The Palin” has now emerged as the most common breed of travelling Brit (49%). 

Julie Owens, Head of Churchill Travel Insurance, said: “We have a lot to thank Michael Palin for as he has opened up Brits’ interest in other cultures.

“With his unrivalled sense of humour and his real interest in the places he visits, he has managed to convince us that there is a whole world out there to explore.  Additionally, many people use the internet to research possible destinations and the combination seems to be making us more adventurous.”

The survey also revealed that “The Palin” really likes to get as far from the madding crowd as possible.

Over a third of respondents said that they find other Brits the most annoying nation to encounter while on their travels.  One in five said that it irritates them when other UK residents try to befriend them – with 10% purposely avoiding each other.

Over 50% of all respondents said that they most enjoy the change of culture, food and the local people when abroad.

Other than “The Palin”, Brits fall into six other categories of holidaymaker:

 

The Palin (49%)  The most common breed by some margin, essentially the sightseer, think they are Michael Palin. They must see EVERYTHING from mountains to valleys, museums, temples and ruins. The guide book is their bible and they love to give holiday slideshows to their pals on their return.

The Beach Bum (22%)  They love nothing better than lounging away their two weeks on the beach or by the pool. Their main aims are to relax and get a tan. They rise only occasionally for a bite to eat or another beer.

The Moaner (12%) Poor old moaners don’t really enjoy being abroad. They want everything to be right and can be heard whinging about everything from sunburn and insect bites to the foreign food. Why can’t they have chips and a full English?

The Planner (6%) The Planner loves lists and itineraries and will usually be holding a clipboard or notebook. They don’t like to waste a minute of their holiday and plan each day’s activity with military precision.

The Party Animal (4%) They return home whiter than when they left the UK – partying hard is their reason for holidaying. The party animal only emerges from their hotel room when the sun goes down and the nightclubs open. After dark they’re the life and soul of the party but don’t venture near these nocturnal creatures in daylight hours – you might regret it.

The Canoodlers (4%) This loved up couple may be on honeymoon or they might act like honeymooners all of the time. They’re easily spotted because they can’t keep their hands off each other – especially in the sea or pool. Can induce nausea in onlookers.

The Action Man (3%) Brits are a lazy bunch on holiday – The Action Man is an endangered species. If you do happen to spot one on the beach, they’re probably going to be windsurfing or enrolling on a scuba diving course. They always win the hotel volleyball competition.

Research commissioned by Churchill Insurance amongst 2000 UK adults in May 2005.

For more information please contact:
Greg Dawson
Churchill Insurance
020 8285 3277
pressoffice@churchill.com

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