So we may not know the meaning of life, but at least we now know the secret to happiness (which may as well be the meaning of life, right?)
In a global survey conducted by Booking.com, it was found that travelling provides us with such a boost in happiness that it is valued over other significant life events, including getting married and having children!
Via @elisha__h
The survey, which included 17,000 people across 17 countries, showed 70% of people find travelling brings them more happiness than material objects, leading to 56% of people saying they prioritise holidays over items including clothing and jewellery.
Amongst the other findings:
- 49% say holidays make them happier than their wedding day.
- 51% prefer to travel over going on a date.
- 77% of people book holidays to cheer themselves up.
- 50% prefer travelling over landing a new job.
- 45% prefer travelling over getting engaged.
- 29% prefer travelling over having a baby.
- 48% would prioritise holidays over home improvements.
Image via @nouraridaofficial
The survey also broke down what aspects of travelling provide the greatest amounts of happiness, with 72% of people saying they get a boost of excitement from researching travel destinations, and 56% saying they’re happiest once they get to book the holiday.
And if you’re the kind to daydream about going far away while you’re trapped in the office on a Monday morning, you’re not alone. 39% of people say they get a boost of happiness by thinking about their holiday more than once throughout the day, 80% are happy looking at a map to research, 52% enjoy planning their holiday wardrobe, and 79% enjoy scrolling through images of their destination and accommodation.
The people have spoken – if you’re looking for a bit of happiness; sit down, budget, and get travelling!
Image via @emilyshak
