For immediate release
Not bothering to learn the local lingo is one of the most common traits associated with Brits abroad, a new survey has revealed.
‘Brits abroad’ is a term used by the press to describe often shameful behaviour by UK holidaymakers, and as well as their reputation for assuming the entire world speaks English, there are many more characteristics to the stereotype, some of which are sure to amuse.
The 1,500-people survey, released today by UK package travel retailer Holiday Hypermarket, reveals that 92% of us are aware of the term ‘Brits abroad’ and a whopping 68% of us find the associated stereotypes to be fair.
And Brits not bothering to learning the language of their holiday destination was one of the most common traits, mentioned by nearly 55% of those surveyed
The full list of characteristics most associated with a Brit abroad can be seen below:
| 1 | Terrible sunburn | 64.93% |
| 2 | Drinking before 12pm | 58.50% |
| 3 | Not learning the language | 54.45% |
| 4 | Searching for hours for English food | 53.15% |
| 5 | Having a fry-up abroad | 52.93% |
| 6 | Packing tea bags | 46.93% |
| 7 | Socks and sandals | 43.60% |
| 8 | Reserving sun loungers with towels | 35.50% |
| 9 | Talking about the weather at home | 33.41% |
| 10 | Constantly checking the weather | 23.28% |
| 11 | Novelty towels | 21.91% |
| 12 | Buying items from beach sellers | 17.35% |
| 13 | Not sure / other characteristic | 5.50% |
Holiday Hypermarket representative Craig Duncan comments, “It’s interesting to see what people associate with the term ‘Brits abroad’, especially as this survey was carried out in the UK. I wonder how this would compare with what our European neighbours think?”
The survey explores a wide range of opinions relating to package holidays abroad and revealed a number of intriguing and, sometimes comical, insights.
One in five of us have had a sunbed stolen. This must be why more than one in four of us are prepared to pay to reserve one in advance.
There are also plenty who don’t want to shell out for the privilege; one in four are prepared to get up early to reserve their prime sunbed spot by the pool.
And the pool is where we are happiest, with 38% of us preferring to hang out there, in comparison with 32% who prefer the beach (30% are unsure).
Overall, beach package holidays still rule the roost with 62% of us opting for this getaway type over others.
As far as families are concerned, there are a number of debates that continue to cause a stir across social media and beyond.
49% of people think it’s OK for parents to take their kids out of school for holidays, with 26% against the idea and 25% on the fence.
And when we’re on holiday, 65% of people think it’s unacceptable for kids to use mobiles or tablets at the dinner table. This has risen from 56% in 2015. So are we dialling down our tech more than ever, in favour of connecting with our families when on holiday?
While this may be true, interestingly, over 40% of parents part company with their children while on holiday, using the very accommodating kids’ clubs. Another topic for debate.
Duncan continues, “There are many debates surrounding holidays but one thing’s for sure; singles, couples and families all need downtime and are willing to spend more for a better experience. At the same time, if there are savings to be made, people will take holidays at times that are more convenient, which is understandable given the wider financial pressures of life.”
There are numerous habits linked with Brits abroad, and it seems that their reputation for sticking to English rather than learning the local language is here to stay – comprende?
Is being illiterate a typical English characteristic?
12 pm does not exist, it’s either 12 noon (between a.m. and p.m.) or 12 midnight (between p.m. and a.m.).
Just because almost everyone says it doesn’t make it right.