What Germans really miss on vacation
Rather one's own bed than pet and family
If there's one thing Germans miss when they travel, it's their own bed. The "cozy home," one's own pet, and familiar surroundings follow at a considerable distance. This is the conclusion of the latest study by the BAT Foundation for Future Issues, for which over 4,000 German citizens The survey, which included a representative sample of people aged 14 and over, involved face-to-face interviews. Homesickness for friends or family is relatively low, and very few vacationers miss typical German foods like rye bread or local beer.
Women miss their families, men miss the television.
Women and men People long for different things from home when they travel. Women, for example, are more likely than average to miss their family, their own bed, their pet, and even their bathroom. Men, on the other hand, more often miss the television and newspapers, as well as German food and drink.
Also, between East and West Germans Differences in missing people: While in the East people miss entertainment, variety and "having something to do", West Germans wish for more cleanliness and contact with those who stayed behind.
Generally, homesickness increases with distance: Domestic tourists experience significantly less homesickness than those traveling long distances. Singles exhibit the least homesickness while traveling, and they emphasize only one thing they miss most frequently: the right travel partner.
Conclusion
Even Odysseus longed for his family and homeland on his travels, as Homer wrote over 3,000 years ago. In the present day, however, hardships are limited. If anything is missed, it is more likely to be comforts and security. Professor Dr. Ulrich Reinhardt, Scientific Director of the BAT Foundation for Future Issues, says:
„"Thanks to mobile phones and email, Facebook and Skype, homesickness for people is becoming increasingly rare. Travelers also hardly have to forgo familiar products – from sports broadcasts to bread spreads – anywhere in the world anymore. The downside: Holidays are increasingly becoming a copy of home with fewer obligations and better weather."“
Original travel motives such as "getting to know the country and its people," "trying new things," and "letting oneself be surprised" are becoming increasingly rare. Reinhardt therefore appeals to people to let their holidays retain their unique character.
„"Destinations should emphasize authenticity, originality, and local character, instead of focusing solely on international standards and offerings. But travelers, too, should refrain from questioning, comparing, and checking every detail from the brochure while on vacation. The contrast to everyday life is crucial for a truly enjoyable holiday."“
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