According to a new study, more than a third of Americans feel “stuck in a social rut” (37%).
The survey of 2,000 adults who have traveled with friends found that 39% haven’t made a new friend in more than a year and a similar percentage haven’t gone on a holiday for at least six months (38%).
For many, it’s also been at least a year since they went to a concert with a friend (59%) or went on holiday with them (44%).
Conducted by Talker Research for CheapCaribbean Vacations, the survey found that while most would describe their existing friendships as fun and ever-changing (58%), a quarter of respondents said their social life feels repetitive (26 %).
Thinking about the friends they have, the average person who says they have a best friend will knight two of their lucky friends with that title.
Friends Are Forever Eight in 10 said they were still friends with someone after at least 10 years (81%).
But making time is difficult: respondents on average spent enough time with their friends only seven times in the past year.
Americans need a social refresher, as only 21% said they spend the most time with their close friends over others in their lives.
When they do get together, respondents admit they are bored with classic hangouts like drinking (25%), shopping (21%) or watching TV shows or movies (20%).
However, half of respondents always or often leave their friends feeling like they haven’t spent enough time together.
Most Americans miss their friends, with 76% expressing their desire to spend more quality time together.
“Friends getaways are just as essential as romantic getaways,” said Dana Studebaker, vice president of consumer brand marketing at CheapCaribbean Vacations. “It can be hard to separate travel from group conversation, but I think all-inclusive resorts offer guests the opportunity to relax, bond and make new memories—without the hassle of planning. With everything from meals to pampering activities, all you have to do is enjoy the experience together – whether it’s exploring new places, diving into adventures or just lounging by the pool. It’s a fun and stress-free way to connect and disconnect from the everyday.”
For one in five, a trip away with their friends is just what they need (22%) – even more than time away with their partner or family.
On average, respondents have taken only two group trips with their friends in the past two years, while 37% have taken none.
Half of the respondents even said that a book trip with their friends would ease their worries (53%).
From road trips to exotic getaways or weekend getaways — 38% discuss a trip away in the group chat at least once a month.
Road trips are really the buzz of these plans (45%), while a similar percentage dream of beach days with their friends (43%).
Others discuss going to festivals or events (26%), city walks (24%) and adventure-led vacations (22%).
According to respondents, the ideal vacation with friends would last an average of a week and would be filled with dinners out (58%) and beach days (48%).
Immersion in the environment is important to 47% who would take the time to go sightseeing (47%) and embrace cultural experiences (31%).
For other respondents, it’s togetherness that makes the difference: 46% would enjoy holidaying together and a further 37% are tempted by a day of shopping with their best friend.
“Vacations with friends are all about spending time together, regardless of the activities you enjoy most,” said Michael Lowery, head of global consumer business at CheapCaribbean Vacations. “When deciding on a group destination, it’s important to consider everyone’s different interests and how they can all enjoy a new shared experience together.”
BEST TYPES OF TRAVEL TO DO WITH FRIENDS
- Road trip – 45%
- Beach – 43%
- Festival/event — 26%
- City – 24%
- Adventure – 22%
- lake – 21%
- mountains – 19%
- Wellness/Spa accommodation – 13%
- Island hopping – 10%
- Backpack – 9%
Survey methodology:
Talker Research surveyed 2,000 Americans who have traveled with friends; survey was commissioned by CheapCaribbean Vacations and administered and conducted online by Talker Research between September. 20 and September. 25, 2024.
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Image Source : nypost.com