Hampton by Hilton has revealed results of its UK research that finds out nine in 10 Brits rely on just one individual to organise their travel and ensure they make the most of their time away.
With UK adults feeling obliged to attend 14 events annually – from birthdays and sports matches to hen weekends and family parties – these unsung planning heroes are being kept busy.
The research has also revealed that collectively the adult population spends £35.6 million and 2 million days annually travelling to and attending these so-called “obli-cations,” outside of their hometowns.
Travel isn’t always about exotic, sandy beaches and lounging by a pool. People travel for many reasons, and “Real Travel” is travelling because you need to – with no choice over the date or the location – and having a good time whilst you’re there. Obli-cations are those trips Brits simply need to take, and like all trips, can sometimes involve significant planning and organisation.
To help turn an obli-cation into a much-needed getaway, and to champion and support the nation’s doers, Hampton by Hilton today launches its 24/7 Hampton Helpline, offering guidance to Real Travel planners across the country. Hosted by television presenter and self-styled organiser, Andrea McLean, the helpline will be live throughout the summer to offer advice, words of wisdom and calming meditation techniques to make organising obli-cations as straightforward as possible, leaving planners more time to sit back, relax and enjoy.
Tal Shefer, Regional Brand Head, Hampton by Hilton, EMEA, says, “At Hampton by Hilton, we understand that not every trip is as exciting as a beautiful beach holiday or climbing the Andes. With research revealing that people are spending up to 21 days a year on average – including 10 annual leave days – on real travel moments, we are encouraging guests to make the most of their time away, and enjoy everything on offer!”
When it comes to the most attended obli-cations across the country, the leader board includes:
- Family events (46%)
- Birthday celebrations (39%)
- Weddings (13%)
- Work social events (12%)
- Away day matches (7%)
At the centre of these trips are the organisers, taking on the responsibility for the logistics and attendance of family, friends and themselves. The motivation for this varies, with a third (33%) doing it for enjoyment, while 38% feel as though nobody else would do it in their place. Topping the list of worries that come with the role, however, is the responsibility of keeping everyone happy (38%), followed by last minute cancellation from a member of the group (34%), finding an obli-cation that works for all budgets (33%) and having to chase people for money (32%).
In fact, Brits are still waiting for more than £197 million from those who haven’t yet paid their dues. Thankfully though, 81% of organisers feel appreciated for their efforts – they like the feeling of being relied upon and the satisfaction that comes with creating a moment their family and friends will remember.
Television presenter and self-confessed obli-cation organiser, Andrea McLean, says, “I just can’t help myself when it comes to taking on the task of planning our family’s trips to weddings, birthdays, anniversaries – the list goes on. From sorting the travel and deciding where to stay, to arranging the itinerary – I love making sure everyone’s having a great time. As much as I wouldn’t have it any other way, I could often do with a helping hand, so I am delighted to be working with Hampton by Hilton to launch this Helpline, which offers planners like me helpful advice and tips to make life easier and ensure everyone is happy. Organising heroes, we salute you!”
The Hampton Helpline is an extension of the brand’s Hamptonality spirit, shown through Hampton by Hilton Team Members delivering friendly, authentic, caring and thoughtful service, with guests’ happiness being the number one priority. The brand enables special moments to be created, turning an obligation into something friends and family will reminisce about for years to come.
To access advice from the Hampton Helpline, call 0800 689 1914
