Top 20 must-haves for 'perfect' summer holiday - including a nearby beach

31 January 2023 , 12:56

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Being a 'stone's throw' from the beach is the top requirement for the 'perfect' summer holiday (Image: SWNS)

Holidaymakers have revealed their top must-haves for a “perfect” summer trip this year – including a decent sized swimming pool, a hotel bar, and having a beach just a “stone's throw” away.

Almost half (45%) said plenty of sightseeing spots are important, while 27% would make sure their accommodation has an extensive buffet at mealtimes.

And the poll of 2,000 sunseekers revealed that other top requirements for their dream vacation include lots of sunbathing spots, while almost a fifth (18%) would opt to stay in an adult-only hotel.

Evening entertainment is also a must for 23%, with a third looking for the opportunity to dance the night away.

And Brits ideally want their accommodation to offer at least three different daily activities, and a choice of at least five restaurants.

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Top 20 must-haves for 'perfect' summer holiday - including a nearby beach

Plenty of sunbathing spots is also key to a perfect vacation (SWNS)

Al Murray, at loveholidays, which commissioned the research, said: “Everybody has a list of must-haves when it comes to a summer holiday.

“It only comes around once a year, so boxes need to be ticked and the ultimate getaway needs to be enjoyed for people to fully relax and unwind.

“During the planning phase there is so much to consider to get it right, and by using an online agent we can help to not only find the best break for you, but also secure a good deal.

“That way you really have something to look forward to, and that you know you will enjoy this summer.”

The survey revealed the ideal summer holiday would last 10 days – with Italy, the Maldives, and Greece topping the poll for dream destinations.

More than half (51%) would opt for a different country every summer, while 21% are happy to return to the same place, but keen to try new hotels or resorts.

Two in five (42%) said they would spend most of their time away eating and drinking, while 31% would try and maximise spending quality time with loved ones.

And when it comes to what they value most while on holiday, getting some sunshine (53%), exploring a new country (49%), and escaping the hustle and bustle of life (47%) were among the top choices.

Thinking about this summer, 38% are determined to enjoy a “bucket list” holiday, with almost half (48%) simply eager to escape from the doom and gloom of the UK.

And more than a quarter would want their accommodation to offer an extensive buffet at mealtimes (Gabriel Sanchez/Getty Images)

For 41%, the pandemic got in the way of enjoying a dream getaway – but three in ten used that time to save up so they could pursue their holiday desires this year.

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More than four in ten (41%) are most likely to opt for a package holiday, ensuring flights, accommodation, and transfers are all sorted in one go – compared to 32% who would book each element individually.

Of those who prefer package holidays, almost two-thirds (63%) said that the easier booking process is what is most appealing, while 56% like the fact the holiday will be financially protected.

According to the OnePoll study, more than half (55%) are attracted to the idea that everything will be taken care for them, while 45% do it because it’s more cost-effective.

Al Murray, for loveholidays, which is offering one lucky candidate the chance of becoming its “holiday correspondent” reviewing five dream destinations, added: “Helping the nation enjoy their ultimate summer holidays this year is important to us – whether that be travelling to new destinations, experiencing new cultures, or simply getting to spend time with their loved ones.

“It’s understandable that a lot of people might have less money to play with when it comes to holidays this year, but that’s why making sure you’re getting good value for money has never been so important.”