‘Fitting Everything in’ Stresses Travelers Out
by Richard D'Ambrosio /
More than 8 out of 10 travelers say that "fitting everything in when your trip is too short" is one of their biggest travel-related challenges, according to new research from Enterprise Rent-A-Car.
The survey revealed that nearly two out of three travelers say that when they have a limited amount of time in a new place they don't always know where to go, and most feel "pressured" to fit everything in. What's more, 78 percent of travelers say that when visiting a new city they want "to do the things the locals do." But, when pressed for time, 67 percent prioritize visiting tourist sites over local hot spots.
According to Enterprise’s survey, 72 percent of respondents say that it's important to go where the locals go, and 93 percent advise leaving time to enjoy the things you discover, versus just the things planned in advance.
While planning may be key before most getaways, surprisingly, less than half of survey respondents say they create an itinerary. The majority of travelers prepare for their trips by "checking the local weather forecast" (77 percent) and "checking the internet for recommendations on things to do" (68 percent). In addition, where people go for travel advice varies based on the timing of their trip. Before a trip, the majority of travelers (60 percent) seek the counsel of friends and family members, as well as internet review websites (58 percent). After arrival, hotel staff (53 percent) are most sought after for advice.
When it comes to asking for directions in a new city, age – not gender – is the big dividing line. Nearly four in 10 (39 percent) millennials and Gen Xers hate having to ask locals for directions; only 20 percent of Boomers indicated that they hate having to ask locals for directions.
Fifty-six percent of travelers indicated that they like to go to "touristy" places, but don't want to look like a tourist.