In it for the long haul
A new report has confirmed that British travellers planning breaks in 2009 want much more from their holidays than the customary fortnight in the sun.
Click here to see the full top ten long haul destinations
The weak pound means that this year many Brits are looking beyond traditional short haul hot spots - spreading their wings to experience the rich cultures of countries in the Far East, Middle East, Africa and Indian Ocean.
The preference for these exotic destinations isn't motivated exclusively by economics though. People are increasingly expressing a need to travel inwardly as well as outwardly, actively seeking destinations that offer opportunities to nurture the mind, body and spirit. Call it explorism - a new kind of tourism.
Kuoni's 2009 Longhaul report reveals that 41% of people say their primary motivation for taking a holiday is to 'soothe their souls' via pursuits like reading, painting and listening to music whilst on a break. Over a quarter want to stimulate their minds with cultural events, or by learning new languages and skills. Just under a third aim to nurture their bodies, citing yoga, detox, hiking and sports among favoured activities on holiday.
Nick Hughes, Kuoni's managing director, said: 'Travel is no longer just a holiday choice. It impacts our lifestyle, stimulates our wellbeing and influences our fashion, design and food choices. Kuoni customers really want to delve deeply under the skin of their destination, to explore further and experience more. We call this growing trend Explorism and we believe it is the new tourism.'