The Results Are In… Why People Love Our Group Holidays!
We have conducted several surveys over the years with you, our loyal customers, and we rely on your feedback to shape the perfect holidays at the best value. Here, we share the combined results of what matters most to you—ranked in order of priority!
1. The Weather
No surprise here! A massive 92% of our customers travel abroad for sunshine, relaxation, and warm weather. Spain, Portugal, and similar destinations remain the top choices.
2. The Location
A great location is key to a great holiday. 71% of customers want easy access to shops, restaurants, promenades, and scenic spots—ideally near a major airport. Interestingly, Irish travelers rated shopping as more essential than UK travelers. (Clearly, the Irish have more to spend—ha! Ha!)
3. A Good Hotel
Almost as important as the location (69%), the hotel experience matters! That’s why we only book 4 star and 5 star hotels, ensuring top-tier service, comfort, and facilities. While food wasn’t directly surveyed, many customers left comments showing that quality meals play a huge role—especially for repeat bookings.
4. Traveling with Friends
A holiday is better with great company! 64% of survey respondents said traveling with friends makes their experience more enjoyable. Our figures confirm this, with an incredible 84% repeat business rate. Some of our loyal customers have traveled with us more than 50 times!
5. Feeling Safe
In recent years, feeling safe and at ease while on holiday has become more important, now ranking at 50%. This is likely due to the changing world around us, as well as the fact that many of our travelers are in a more mature age group. However, we believe this factor is not just about safety—it’s about feeling comfortable in your surroundings, knowing you’re among friends, and having the peace of mind that everything is taken care of.
Each year, we welcome many new customers to our holidays, and we like to think that our welcoming group helps to build that feeling of safety for new faces.
6. Price
Surprisingly, price ranked lower than expected at 48%. People are willing to pay more for the right experience. However, a word of caution: always compare what’s included! Some companies cut costs by leaving out key elements like airport transfers or dinners.
With us, the price you see is the price you pay. No hidden taxes or sneaky add-ons—just great value. As a licensed tour operator, we keep prices fair without cutting corners.
7. Entertainment
Entertainment may have ranked seventh (41%), but it’s still crucial and should not be under-estimnated! Our events feature high-quality performances across multiple genres: Country n’ Irish, Ceili, Jazz, Folk, Rock ‘n’ Roll, and more—including our soon-to-be-introduced Western Swing!
We also pride ourselves on supporting young, up-and-coming talent. Big names like Nathan Carter and Pat McKenna got their start with us! This year, you’ll get to see some rising stars in action.
8. Dancing
Dancing (which received 40% the vote) is not just fun—it’s fantastic for your health! The New England Journal of Medicine confirms that dancing improves cardiovascular fitness, strength, flexibility, coordination, and even mental well-being. It also relieves stress, boosts cognitive function, and fosters social connection.
Need an excuse to join our next music and dance holiday? Here it is!
Defeating Loneliness
While not part of the survey, it’s worth mentioning. Loneliness is a growing issue, particularly in later life. Over the years, we’ve built a wonderful community of kind-hearted, generous people who look out for one another. Many friendships (and even relationships!) have been formed on our trips.
When someone in our group needs help, others step in without hesitation. To those of you who have been there for others—you know who you are, and we are truly grateful.