ONE IN FOUR Irish people have changed their holiday plans this year because of the recession.

According to a survey conducted for MyHome.ie, 27 per cent of people are staying in Ireland for their main holiday this year – that is 3 per cent more than last year. While 40 per cent say their main holiday this year will be abroad, that is down 13 per cent from last year. One-fifth (20 per cent) said they would be splitting their main holiday between a short break abroad and a ‘staycation’ in Ireland. Thirteen per cent said they would not be taking any holiday at all (up 3 per cent on 2010).

One quarter of those taking their main holiday in Ireland said that financial constraints was the primary reason for staying at home, followed by wanting to support the local economy (17 per cent), finding good value for money here (15 per cent) and visiting family (13 per cent).

A total of 73 per cent of the 2,000 respondents to the survey said that they thought the recession had “led to better value holiday pricing in Ireland”. Those taking Irish holidays were most likely to stay in self-catering accommodation (34 per cent), hotels (33 per cent), and then stay with family/friends (12 per cent) or use a mobile home or camp (5 per cent).

Where do Irish ‘staycationers’ go?

1. Kerry – 24 per cent
2. Galway – 17 per cent
3. Cork – 15 per cent

Why do Irish people want to holiday abroad?

1. Better weather – 40 per cent
2. Change of scene – 22 per cent
3. Value for money – 15 per cent
4. Visits to fmily – 13 per cent

(Other – 9 per cent)

Poll: Do you think Ireland is good value for tourists?>