New research commissioned by IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG) has found that six in 10 holiday organisers come home from a break feeling like they need another one. In a survey of 2,000 adults, 35% said the hardest part is planning the holiday, while 30% said it’s being the one in charge once they arrive.
Holiday hosts struggle to switch off
Even when they try to relax, 32% said they keep checking that everyone else is OK. Another 30% spend their downtime looking for places to eat, and 25% end up planning the day’s schedule.
To get a break from being 'in charge', 22% slip off for a quiet coffee, 17% retreat to their room, and 11% pretend to be asleep.
IHG launches 'When the Host Needs Hosting' campaign
IHG has teamed up with TV presenter Josie Gibson to launch its ‘When the Host Needs Hosting’ campaign. “I’m that person who’s always making sure everyone’s glass is full and having the best time,” Josie admits. “So, when I’m away, I absolutely love being the one who gets looked after for a change.
“Whether it’s a big holiday, travelling for work or just a little night away, for me it’s about being able to switch off, relax and let someone else take care of things.”
Many feel responsible for everyone's enjoyment
The research found that 54% of adults often look after others in everyday life, and 57% are usually the one who organises group outings. Nearly half (49%) say they feel responsible for making sure everyone is having a good time. It’s got to the point where 64% of those polled by OnePoll said they’ve come back from holiday feeling like they needed another break to recover.
Even though organising can be tiring, 28% said they actually enjoy being in charge. And 31% think they’re the best person to take the lead among friends, family or colleagues.
What would make a trip feel like a real break
For a trip to feel like a real break, 34% said they want to be able to just turn up and enjoy it. For 33%, it helps to switch off if they don’t have to cook or clean, while 32% said having a comfortable room ready on arrival makes all the difference.
Neetu Mistry, managing director of UK & Ireland at IHG Hotels & Resorts, which is launching ‘When the Host Needs Hosting’ experiences through its One Rewards Access platform, said: “The people who bring everyone together are often the ones who find it hardest to switch off.
“And our research shows that even when they’re away, many are still thinking about everyone else. For us, great hospitality is about creating the space for people to step back, relax and feel genuinely looked after.
“We’re celebrating the people who do so much for others and reminding them that sometimes, it’s their turn to be the guest.”
The top 10 holiday tasks Brits would love taken off their hands include cooking, cleaning, resolving problems, managing timings and schedules, coordinating transport, planning the itinerary, organising activities, making reservations, making sure everyone else is happy, and deciding where everyone eats.
