The most critical factor in selecting a travel partner is having a compatible travel style, according to a recent Traveller Sentiment and Safety Survey. Compatibility and flexibility are in; negative attitudes and recklessness are out. A compatible travel style aligns preferences regarding itinerary planning, pace, and activities.
Dan Richards, CEO of The Global Rescue Companies who conducted thhe survey, and a member of the U.S. Travel and Tourism Advisory Board, said, “More than half of survey respondents (51%) said a like-minded travelling companion is more important than other characteristics like flexibility, money management or open-mindedness,”
“Some travellers thrive on spontaneous adventures, while others prefer structured plans. Open discussions about travel preferences are crucial for ensuring a harmonious journey,” Richards said.
Survey respondents (16%) listed flexibility as the second most important characteristic, highlighting the ability to adapt to changes – such as unexpected weather conditions or transportation delays. A sense of humour (9%), good communication (8%) and open-mindedness (8%) were identified as the next most vital traits for a great travel companion.
Conversely, survey respondents (32%) identified the most alarming characteristic to avoid when selecting a travel companion was an individual with a negative attitude who frequently complains or exhibits pessimism. Recklessness (20%) and unreliability (19%) were listed as the next most undesirable qualities in a travel buddy.
The survey found that men and women largely agreed on the characteristics of an ideal travel companion, but they differ in their views regarding alarming traits. Women identified a negative attitude as their top concern (33%), followed by recklessness (24%) and unreliability (14%). In contrast, men also ranked a negative attitude first (32%) but prioritized unreliability (20%) and recklessness (17%) differently.
“By prioritizing compatible travel styles, flexibility, open-mindedness, good communication, and a sense of humour, travellers can foster enjoyable adventures. At the same time, awareness of negative traits like a poor attitude, unreliability, and recklessness can help ensure a positive travel experience,” Richards said.
(Founded in 2004, Global Rescue is a leading provider of medical, security, evacuation and travel risk management services to enterprises, governments, and individuals).
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