Valentine’s Day is a time when people show feelings of love, affection and friendship. It is celebrated in many ways across the world and falls on February 14 each year.
Mostly a Western tradition, the day is now celebrated in a major way in the eastern part of the world and countries like India and China are no way far behind. The day is named after a Christian martyr Saint Valentine.
According to the Valentine’s Day Report — a nationwide study of the Valentine’s Day gift and travel habits of more than 1,500 U.S. adults — 25% of Americans prefer a romantic weekend getaway over chocolates, diamonds, or flowers this February 14.
Key insights from the report include:
WARM BEATS COLD FOR V-DAY DESTINATIONS
Valentine’s Day vacationers prefer the warmer West Coast (44%) and Gulf Coast (44%) Coasts over the East Coast (12%). The Top 10 most desired Valentine’s Day getaway destinations are:
1. Honolulu, Hawaii
2. Indian Rocks Beach, Florida
3. Key West, Florida
4. Princeville, Hawaii
5. Waikoloa, Hawaii
6. Oro Valley, Arizona
7. South Padre Island, Texas
8. Corpus Christi, Texas
9. Lahaina, Hawaii
10. Fort Myers, Florida
BABY BOOMERS WANT UNIQUE EXPERIENCES TOO
While 83% of Millennials say they value unique experiences over material gifts—which confirms well-documented generational characteristics—the study surprisingly found that Generation X (77%) and Baby Boomers (71%) also prefer quality time together over material expressions of affection.
AMERICANS WANT A ROMANTIC VACATION RENTAL OVER A HO-HUM HOTEL
55% of Americans would rather stay at a unique vacation rental for their Valentine’s Day getaway over a one-size-fits-all hotel. When asked why, 64% of respondents said they want to enjoy the comforts of home even while away.
