A poll of 2,000 travelers found that 29 per cent of trips within the UK are less stressful than trips abroad – with shorter travel distances and keeping the same currency also among the top reasons.
This compares with 22% who say vacations abroad are more relaxing.
Exactly 6 out of 10 people would prefer to be able to speak the same language while on vacation, and 14% of those with children say their parenting method is more comfortable at home.
As a result, a quarter prefer to book their domestic holiday, with 29% planning to do so this summer.
And when it comes to a UK holiday, outdoor hot tubs, local pubs and scenic walks are some of the most relaxing things these pollsters experience.
“The holidays are a time to reset and get some much-needed respite from our daily pressures,” said Graham Donoghue, chief executive officer of Sykes Holiday Cottages, which carried out the research.
“With shorter travel times, avoiding airport check-in lines, and no language barriers, it’s no surprise that our research shows that stays are more relaxing than a vacation abroad.
“There are so many great places to explore across the UK, where guests can enjoy a wealth of stress-free holiday experiences to relax and recharge.”
Following the findings, Sykes Holiday Cottages has create a relaxation center where people can enjoy the sights and sounds of a holiday to help them feel as stress-free as when they were on holiday in the UK.
According to those polled, the most relaxing sounds to help induce relaxation during the holidays include the sound of waves crashing (60%), birds chirping (40%) and the sound of food sizzling on the oven (16%).
It also emerged that during a two-week break in the UK, half said it would take them up to two days to fully relax, while only 42 per cent would relax during this time while on holiday abroad.
Knowing that they can’t easily get home if there’s an emergency (30%), airport stress (52%) and needing more planning (32%) are some of the reasons why traveling abroad is not a relaxing experience.
While 36% had something stressful happen while on holiday abroad, according to OnePoll research.
With respondents highlighting lost luggage, travel delays, medical emergencies and food poisoning as some of the most stressful experiences affecting their happiness.
By comparison, 75% say you know what to expect from a holiday home, and 84% say the UK is as beautiful as any other country.
Before departure, 1/4 plan the itinerary to make the journey more relaxing and 25% pack in advance.
Cornwall (17%).
It also emerged 73 per cent prefer to explore different destinations when booking a UK holiday.
Graham Donoghue added: “Our research has shown that many people are choosing to go on holiday back home this summer to make sure their vacation is as stress-free as possible.
“The UK is home to many hidden gems, from the beautiful beaches of Cornwall to the rolling countryside in the Lake District and the beauty of the remote Scottish Highlands.
“There are endless opportunities to escape from everyday life and enjoy a relaxing vacation without the pressures of overseas travel.”
The top 20 reasons why Britons feel relaxed while on-site:
1. No airport stress
2. Less travel distance
3. Know that you can easily go home if there is an emergency
4. You don’t have to take a plane
5. Same coin
6. No language barrier
7. Familiar medical care if needed
8. You can stop during the journey
9. No need to worry about expired passports
10. It’s easier to buy something you forgot to pack
Top 10 most relaxing places in the UK
1. Cornwall
2. Lake District
3. Scottish Highlands
4. Yorkshire Valley
5. Dorset
6. Norfolk
7. Cotswold
8. Isle of Wight
9. Peak District
10. Snowman
