Britons opt for Nano-breaks as recession deepens work worries

By Tim Clark
Updated: 10:20 EST, 29 July 2009

More and more Britons are taking shorter weekend breaks rather than staycations to make sure they return in time for the working week and protect their jobs, a new study has said.

According to a study commissioned by coach operator National Express, almost a third of Britons said they were substituting a large holiday for a Nano-break this year due to money and work worries while a quarter said that they find Nano-breaks the best way of achieving relaxation without using up all their annual holiday allowance at once - allowing them to stay in touch with work, potentially protecting their job.

The study, which asked 1,400 people aged between 16 and 64 about their travel habits, found that Britons also appear to favour the variety of short UK breaks as they are able to explore a wide range of places on a budget.

The news comes soon after another survey which said that a culture of 'presenteeism' -whereby employees work beyond their expected hours - has become more prevalent in the UK workplace with one in ten employees spending an average of one week's leave at their desks.

Destinations of Nano-breaks are evenly split between countryside 33 per cent, cities 30 per cent and the seaside 37 per cent while other popular UK locations this summer are Bristol, Brighton, London and Bournemouth.

Paul Bunting, Sales and Marketing Director for National Express, said:
‘‘Nano-breaks’ are perfect for people craving a relaxing getaway without the hassle of flights or taking time off work.

‘Simply escaping two hours from your home can make a big difference and uncover towns and attractions you never knew existed.’