South West to be a region of explorers in 2014

Exploration is the key holiday trend for 2014 as research published today reveals that two thirds (67 per cent) of those living in the South West of England are keen to experience something new on holiday this year.

In addition South West of England residents are proving their holiday ambition grit with nearly a third (31 per cent) believing they will be able to tick off their bucket list of top destinations to visit in their lifetime, according to the research from Celebrity Cruises.

Many are keener than ever to venture into the unknown with trips that will exercise the mind, rather than the body. The biggest holiday ambitions are to visit a famous site (28 per cent) and see wildlife (28 per cent) followed by experiencing a new culture (17 per cent).

Celebrity Cruises commissioned the research ahead of the launch of ‘Ben Fogle’s Great Adventures’ – a series of unique and exclusive shore excursions  developed for those keen to add an alternative element to their holiday and really make the most of their time away. Writer, broadcaster and explorer Ben Fogle was appointed as the Celebrity Cruises ‘Destination Expert’ in 2013 to share his knowledge of the world with the cruise line’s guests and even shape the experiences they have on holiday. From life as a castaway on a Scottish island, to racing across the Antarctic and trekking the Sahara, he is certainly well qualified to advise on adventure and how to add a different dimension to holiday programmes. The new shore excursion programme includes speedboat rides and snorkelling with salmon in Norway, a gastronomic tour through Sicily, triathlon trails in Croatia and kayaking through the Stockholm archipelago.

Specifically those in the South West of England are keen to raise the bar, or even out-do friends and family when it comes to choosing our holiday. One in six of those surveyed (16 per cent) choose their holiday based on the opportunity to do something and go somewhere completely different, compared to only two per cent who book their holiday based on a family or friend’s recommendation.

Bucket lists for 2014 reveal that South West of England residents are keen to explore shores closer to home with 28 per cent opting for holidays in Europe, compared to 11 per cent in Australia and New Zealand, and 13 per cent to the Caribbean. Just three per cent are keen to follow the sporting hype of the World Cup and travel to South America.

Commenting on the results, Ben said, “It is really encouraging to see people in the South West of England realising that holidays can be more than a break away and an opportunity to try something different.  Many are keen to realise their ambitions to take the road less travelled and immerse

themselves in new cultures and experiences. With the launch of my Great Adventures, Celebrity Cruises are leading the way in innovative and exclusive shore excursions across the globe that will add a new and exciting dimension to their cruise holidays in 2014 and beyond.”

Ben Fogle’s Great Adventures offer Celebrity Cruises guests the opportunity to embrace the spirit of exploration with excursions that include speedboat trips and snorkelling with salmon in Norway, a triathlon-themed tour across Croatia, a nature-themed excursion across the Stockholm archipelago by kayak and RIB boat and a gastronomic tour of Sicily.

Ben Fogle’s Great Adventures are available to book now.  For more information visit www.celebritycruises.co.uk/BenFogle or call 0844 493 2043.