MORE than a quarter of holidaymakers visit the same destination either every year, or every other year, a survey found.
A study of 2,000 adults who have been on holiday found people return to the same place an average of six times, with nearly one in five (18 per cent) having visited between six and 20 times.
The main reasons being because they enjoy what it has to offer (52 per cent), understand it’s safe (29 per cent) and prefer to stick to what they know (15 per cent).
And 29 per cent return regularly to the same place having developed a strong emotional connection with their favourite destination.
The findings come from the 2026 Trends Report by Neilson Beach Clubs, which highlights a clear rise in repeat bookings across its resorts with seven in 10 guests returning year on year.
David Taylor, CEO for the travel provider said: “We all look forward to our holiday escapes so much that when you’ve found something you love that delivers a great experience, it’s natural to return again with confidence that the holiday won’t disappoint.
“That is why we have activities for different ages and interests, giving guests flexibility in how they spend their time, even when returning to the same resort.”
The study also found for families, the appeal is even stronger of returning to the same place, as one in 20 parents admitted that visiting somewhere unfamiliar with children can be stressful.
And more than a quarter (26 per cent) of all respondents said they often visit the same destination because it’s easier to plan.
The research went on to reveal holiday habits are shifting, with 52 per cent of those who do exercise activities on getaways would book a fitness-focused trip to improve their physical health – up from 33 per cent last year.
With 38 per cent sticking to their fitness routines while away and 43 per cent would do fitness activities on holidays.
Swimming (50 per cent) and paddle boarding (19 per cent) were among the most popular choice of water-based activities.
Followed by yoga and tennis (23 per cent each) for land-based activities.
A further 45 per cent would opt for a getaway where fitness activities are included in the price.
While 67 per cent still seek a more relaxing vacation, nearly one in four (24 per cent) say a fitness element brings just as much enjoyment.
With 42 per cent seeing them as a way of reducing stress, while 37 per cent said they help rejuvenate the body and mind.
And with screen fatigue rising, 67 per cent said taking a break from technology is important for them when they’re away.
It was also found 64 per cent said ensuring their children are engaged and happy with activities is key to a truly enjoyable and relaxing experience for the whole family.
And 23 per cent of those who took part in the study by OnePoll.com, even take their child’s preferences into account when booking a vacation.
David Taylor, from Neilson Beach Clubs, which has added a five-star resort in Sicily and its first year-round club in Mauritius, added: “It’s encouraging to see consumers leaning strongly to even more holidays for 2026.
“The survey responses on activities resonate with us, we feel that it’s easier to switch off by switching on, if your mind is busy getting your body to do something you love, you can truly switch off mentally.
“That said, it’s not all action for our guests, once they’ve got a fix of good energy by sailing flat out on the water, they still like to be flat out on a sunlounger too.
“It’s that balance that turns a good holiday into a great one.”