More than half of Brits don’t like going to the cinema or food shopping alone

GOING to the cinema, dining out and even doing the food shop are among the activities Brits wouldn’t dream of doing on their own.

The study of 2,000 UK adults found shopping for new clothes, having a spa day and enjoying a meal in a café also featured as typical outings they wouldn’t be willing to do alone.

Others wouldn’t want to go to the pub, attend a football match or venture to a museum without company.

It also emerged more than a third of respondents find the thought of doing something on their own intimidating, while a fifth find it awkward.

The research, commissioned by hotel brand Staybridge Suites, which is part of the InterContinental Hotels Group, also found more than half of adults wish they were more confident to do things on their own.

Raul Ortiz, VP of Staybridge Suites, said: “We’ve seen a shift in solo travel and our research shows that over two thirds see travelling alone more acceptable now than it was a few years ago.

“However, it can be intimidating or lonely doing things on our own, especially given that 30 per cent prefer to share experiences with others when they take trips.”

The study also revealed the reasons Brits don’t want to do things alone with one in 10 admitting they can’t bear the thought of being seen on their own by others.

And 14 per cent simply find it embarrassing.

In fact, more than half use their phone as a distraction if they are ever alone and, as a result, two thirds blame the gadget for their struggle to engage with others.

STICKING TOGETHER

As a result, seven in 10 have never been on holiday alone, with more than two fifths not willing to even consider travelling without a companion.

Despite this, more than half wished they had the confidence to travel on their own, and just over two thirds have had some of their best trips away without company.

More than half of those who enjoy trips on their own said these journeys can be more enjoyable because they can do as they please.

And a fifth agreed solo travel can push them outside of their comfort zone, with more than a quarter finding the experience liberating.

The research, conducted via OnePoll, also found nearly a third want a ‘home-like’ feel when taking a trip away, and more than a fifth look for accommodation with a space to socialise.

Raul Ortiz added: “Staybridge Suites enables a sense of community to help guests navigate the possibilities of their stay by building connections through guest service and enabling connections between guests and the local area to ensure they have a memorable stay while they are on the road.”

Staybridge Suites creates an environment for people to come together while enjoying space to spread out and unwind.

Featuring ‘Socials’ three times a week with free food and drink, 24/7 fitness rooms, self-laundry facilities and a 24-hour convenience store, Staybridge Suites provides the ultimate comforts to ensure guests feel relaxed and at ease during their stay.

For more information, visit www.staybridge.com.