What do Europeans read while on holiday?
London, England (PRWEB UK) 29 July 2013 -- The second part of summer holidays have just begun and many Europeans are zipping their suitcases shut. Beyond the essentials, flip flops, towel and sunglasses, what do Europeans pack in their luggage when it comes to reading material? Opodo has interviewed their English, French, Italian and German clients and reveals their reading habits... and at the same time breaks past a few clichés and stereotypes.
The English, digital addicts
With Internet on your smartphone and tablet it’s hard to disconnect, even on holidays! Our study has found that it’s even harder for us, as one in five English said they could not do without their tablet. However, for 50% of respondents, the addiction is not to be caught up on the latest news and gossip, but rather for cultural information about concerts, events, festivals, etc. It’s also important to note that 58% of us are also fond of bringing novels along with us on holidays, and 30% will be getting lost in the fantasy world of George R.R. Martin’s Game of Thrones.
The French, not so hooked on classical literature
It is well known that the French love to read and 46% of them say that they go to the library to get inspiration for their next good read. But the best-seller of the French, stereotypically fond of classical literature, is the gossip magazine! 56% of French take pleasure in devouring the latest gossip, but they aren’t necessarily open about it as only 6% admit to it!
The Italians, romance is in their blood and in their books
Holidays in Italy are all about letting go and getting in touch with your romantic side, or so they say. Therefore, it is out of the question to read the newspaper and get stressed about world news. Moreover, one out of every two Italians refuses to read the newspaper while on holiday. So in that respect, any good Italian needs a book or two, a true source of escape for 50% of them. But not just any type of book, to pass the day away worry free there’s nothing better than a romance novel according to 45% of respondents.
The Germans, not so serious but connected
Concerts, exhibitions, festivals… 41% of Germans say they read about their holiday destination and 71% even travel with a guide book or use the Internet look up the best places to go. And Germans are open to new experiences, they enjoy exploring the most colourful streets, having a drink at a trendy bar or dining at atypical and unique restaurants.
About Opodo.co.uk
Opodo.co.uk is one of the leading online travel agencies in the UK. Its website offers flights, hotels, city breaks, cruises, car hire and package holidays worldwide, and is used by millions of customers a year. The Opodo Group launched its first website in 2001, and now has websites in the UK, Germany, France, Italy, Norway, Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Spain, Portugal, Switzerland, Austria, Belgium and Poland. Opodo is part of ODIGEO, one of the leading online travel groups worldwide, and the biggest e-commerce company in Europe.
Conrad Svard, Opodo, http://www.opodo.co.uk, +44 870 352 5263, [email protected]
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