Tahir Mehmood and Deepika Benjamin, along with their three-year-old son, Isaac, have embraced the joy of staycations, embarking on 13 UK holidays in a single year. Driven by a desire to create lasting family memories and a belief in the richness of UK destinations, they prioritize monthly getaways. Tahir, reflecting on his own childhood with limited holiday experiences, cherishes these opportunities to explore the diverse offerings of their home country, from coastal towns to charming villages. Their adventures include seaside fun in Blackpool, amusement park thrills, and simple pleasures like enjoying fish and chips by the sea. The family’s travel philosophy emphasizes accessibility and affordability, opting for advance bookings and seeking out free or budget-friendly attractions.
The Mehmood-Benjamin family’s staycationing habits highlight the growing trend of exploring local destinations, a phenomenon further underscored by a Sykes Holiday Cottages study. This research revealed that a significant number of adults plan multiple UK overnight trips within a year, often seeking relaxation, a break from routine, and sightseeing opportunities. Family visits, birthdays, and romantic weekends also contribute to the popularity of these shorter getaways. The study further identifies top staycation destinations for 2025, with York, Edinburgh, and Bath leading the list, reflecting a desire for historical charm, cultural experiences, and picturesque scenery.
Fueled by a passion for exploring the UK’s diverse landscapes and attractions, Tahir meticulously plans each staycation to maximize value and enjoyment. He prioritizes advance accommodation bookings to secure the best prices and researches free or low-cost local activities. Beach outings, complete with traditional fish and chips, are a recurring theme in their travels, encapsulating the quintessential British seaside experience. Their 2024 itinerary showcases their diverse interests, ranging from coastal towns like Hastings and Bournemouth to theme park adventures at Blackpool Pleasure Beach and Alton Towers. This blend of relaxation and excitement underscores their commitment to creating varied and memorable experiences.
The family’s travel style resonates with the findings of the Sykes Holiday Cottages survey, which reveals a strong preference for UK short breaks. Respondents cited relaxation, escaping daily routines, and sightseeing as primary motivators for these trips. The survey also highlighted the significance of family connections, celebrations, and romantic getaways as catalysts for staycations. This data reflects a broader shift towards appreciating local tourism and recognizing the potential for fulfilling experiences closer to home. The accessibility and affordability of these shorter breaks contribute to their appeal, making them an attractive option for families and individuals seeking respite and exploration.
Sykes Holiday Cottages, recognizing the growing popularity of staycations, has launched a competition offering the chance to become a UK Short Break Tester. This initiative invites staycation enthusiasts to share their passion for exploring the UK in a 200-word letter, vying for the opportunity to experience a selection of free trips in 2025. This competition further emphasizes the increasing recognition of the UK’s diverse and appealing destinations, encouraging individuals to delve into the rich tapestry of experiences available within their own country. The competition aims to showcase the variety of landscapes, attractions, and cultural experiences that the UK offers, inspiring others to embrace the staycation trend.
The Mehmood-Benjamin family’s story, coupled with the Sykes Holiday Cottages study, paints a vibrant picture of the evolving travel landscape. The emphasis on staycations reflects a growing appreciation for local tourism, driven by factors such as affordability, accessibility, and a desire for shorter, more frequent breaks. The wide range of destinations highlighted in the survey, spanning historic cities, charming coastal towns, and picturesque countryside locations, underscores the diverse appeal of the UK’s travel offerings. The increasing popularity of staycations suggests a shift in travel priorities, with a greater focus on exploring local gems and creating meaningful experiences closer to home. They demonstrate that enriching and memorable travel experiences can be found within one’s own borders, fostering a deeper appreciation for the diverse landscapes and cultural offerings available without the need for long-distance travel.
