With just six months to go, Olympic fever is starting to build in the UK. But there are some people who are making plans to avoid the Games.
Research has revealed that 12 per cent of Brits are planning a trip abroad to specifically avoid the London Olympic Games this year.
And a further 9 per cent will be looking for a holiday destination within the UK that will be free from Olympic fever.
When it comes to Olympic excitement the research, carried out by travel association ABTA, found there is something of a generation gap.
It is the older generation who appear to be the least excited about the Games, with 22 per cent of over 65s and 18 per cent of 55-64 year-olds planning a trip overseas.
The younger generation was found to have the biggest case of Olympic fever, with 38 per cent of 15-24 year olds saying they are excited about the Games – compared to 28 per cent of over 55s.
The research also revealed our plans to take time off during the Games. More than two million are planning on taking time off work to go to events in or around the Games, either in London or other Olympic venues around the country.
Even those without tickets to any events are still planning to make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime event. Around five million people are expected to take time off to enjoy the Games from the comfort of their own home.
“With only six months to go until one of the biggest sporting events in our country’s history, it’s clear that hundreds of thousands, especially the young, will be taking time off to enjoy London 2012,” said Victoria Bacon, Head of Communications at ABTA.
“However, for those who don’t love sports or want to escape the crowds, going abroad will provide a welcome alternative.”
(Image: kachkaev)
