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Daily Mirror
16-05-2025
- Daily Mirror
'Lads holidays make me uneasy - there was one moment I knew I'd outgrown them'
Booze, sex, testosterone — those are the typical expectations from a lads holiday. But what if that's not what you want anymore? Matt Spraggrett tells us how he fell out of love with the form Urban dictionary defines a lads holiday as: 'When you go on holiday with your 'lads' (mates) and you get smashed out of your head and bang about 50,000 girls." And perhaps that's all one needs to know about the typical boys trip and expectations of them. While there may be (many) men who would jump at the chance to take a no-holds-barred, booze, sex, and testosterone-fuelled trip with the lads, there seems to be a growing section that would really rather just... not. In fact, new research from First Choice confirms that sentiment. In a recent survey conducted by the travel company involving 2,000 Millennial and Gen-Z men, it was found that 69 per cent of men aged 18-35 secretly dreaded going away with the boys and over half (53 per cent) made excuses to dodge the trip. Furthermore, a staggering 81 per cent of blokes felt the pressure to act 'macho' during these out-of-control lads holidays and 66 per cent struggled to keep up with the intense partying mentality. A few key factors contributed to their apprehension: 39 per cent of the men surveyed felt they were forced to drink more than usual on a boys trip, while 27 per cent were uncomfortable with the overspending that such escapades involve. Another 20 per cent were aware that their partners disapproved of their absence and their participation in said exploits. Matt Spraggett, 29, is one such lad who isn't the biggest fan of these lads holidays. Currently working in London as an advertising manager, Matt grew up in Cheshunt, Hertfordshire, and says he had a lower middle class upbringing. His dad worked in the public sector, while his mum was a PA. Both Matt and his brother attended their local state school and sixth form and in his words it was 'nothing fancy'. While Matt doesn't hate the quintessential boys trip, it definitely makes him 'uneasy at times'. He feels it's 'largely down to the pressure to conform to a certain idea of masculinity', which he finds off-putting. Matt tells Mirror Travel: 'Specifically, I dislike the expectation of constant, and I mean constant, drinking and the need to be 'on' all the time with either a loud, jokey persona or someone who is just ready to whatever the rest of the group wants to do, no questions. Sometimes it feels like a competition to see who can be the most outrageous. I've been on trips where guys are practically egging each other on to do stupid things, just for the sake of a laugh, regardless of any consequences they might face and after a while it can be exhausting.' Matt feels that an all-blokes trip comes with the expectation of reverting to 'some kind of adolescent version of yourself'. Matt reflects: 'You're supposed to forget about your responsibilities, your growth, and just act like you're back in your late teens and do what the typical lads trip consists of such as, all day drinking, strip clubs, night clubs and even taking drugs. There's often an unspoken pressure to be constantly available for partying, and if you want to chill out or do something different, you're seen as a buzzkill.' Now almost 30, Matt can largely pinpoint the juncture of his life when he started disliking the notion of a typical lads holiday. 'I think it was probably around my mid-twenties, maybe 25 or 26, which might seem a little young to not want to just be on 'lads lads lads' / 'oi oi' type holiday but I think the pandemic had a big impact. I moved away from where I grew up and met a new set of friends in London, plus I was starting to take my career more seriously, and I had been in a relationship for a couple of years by that time so the idea of spending a week getting hammered and acting like an idiot just didn't appeal to me anymore. Also, with the cost of living increasing and paying my own way with rent and bills, I became more mindful about what money I was spending on holidays," he said. Matt remembers being out for the day, celebrating a schoolmate's birthday and 'feeling a little out of sync with everyone else'. He recalls the conversations being 'very surface level and nothing that engaging', which led him to the realisation that something had changed. "I don't want that to sound arrogant, that I changed, and they hadn't, as they had, but they still lived where we grew up and had a certain view and experience of the world, both socially and politically and mine had evolved differently to theirs. After that moment I started to want to spend my time doing things I truly enjoy — not just doing it to retain some favour with the lads.' One holiday that sticks out in Matt's mind which further solidified his negative feelings towards out-of-control boys trips was when he went to Thailand in his early 20s. While the vacation 'wasn't a total nightmare', there were some tense moments that could've escalated and derailed the whole trip" Matt recalls heading out on a pub crawl with the gang, when one bloke from their group wandered off and returned 'about 20 minutes later and says he's got into an argument with the locals' which resulted in 'some pushing and shoving which then turned into a bit of a fight'. The 'very drunk' group instantly started panicking thinking about 'horror stories of foreigners causing trouble abroad and losing your passport' and subsequently 'sprinted about 2km back to our hotel to avoid some angry bar owners our friend had annoyed.' Matt and the lads 'moved off to another part of Thailand quickly after that'. By his own admission, the 29-year-old feels 'many guys and lots of drinks' can often lead to 'an overall atmosphere of tension which might kick off at any moment'. For Matt, his 'ideal lads vacation' would be 'a good mix of culture and party where it's focusing on shared interests and experiences rather than just getting drunk all day every day'. He shares: 'I'd love to do something active, like exploring the local history, going to a vineyard or seeing the best viewpoint. Something that involves an activity as well as some drinks is much more appealing to me. The vibe would be relaxed, we'd explore the place we are in rather than just going to the main strip. It's like going to London and only going to Covent Garden, there's so much more to see! But that's just me.' And while he feels that 'there's nothing wrong with having a few drinks', he'd rather have it not be 'the central focus of the trip'. The perfect trip in his mind? 'It would be about creating good memories and strengthening friendships, not just racking up embarrassing stories of who got the most drunk. They are funny but I don't want that to be the only thing I remember.'
Scotsman
08-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
Unlock the hidden gems in Switzerland for Eurovision 2025
Eurovision 2025 is around the corner and this year, the medieval city of Basel in Switzerland will host the competition, following Nemo's triumphant win with "The Code" in 2024. Basel is set to welcome all of Europe to enjoy the spectacular performances at the world's largest music competition. Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Aside from the sparkly dresses, emotional ballads and eccentric performances, the vibrant city of Basel provides a range of historical and cultural landmarks including the vibrant Carnival Fountain, historic city gate to Basel's Old Town and the botanical Merian Garten filled with sprawling Swiss flowers. To help Eurovision fanatics this May, TUI River Cruises and First Choice has provided a list of must-do's when exploring the city! Explore the 12th century Medieval city of Basel Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Basel, Switzerland Visit the Medieval old town whilst sailing down the river Rhine. This Gothic 12th century inspired architecture is full of rich history including the tomb of the 16th-century Dutch scholar, Erasmus of Rotterdam. Visitors can view the rich-city views from high viewing points and friendly famers markets filled with local homemade produce a stone's throw away from either their hotel or river cruise ship. TUI River Cruises offers a seven-night Sail the Southern Rhine from Frankfurt, Germany on TUI Isla from £1255 per person. Price based on 2 adults sharing a Deck 1 Superior Cabin on a Full Board Plus* basis. Calling at Frankfurt Germany, Koblenz, Germany, Rudesheim, Germany, Speyer, Germany, Kehl (for Strasbourg), Germany, Breisach, Germany and Basel, Switzerland. Includes BA flights from London Heathrow to Amsterdam on 11th August 2025, 23kg of luggage per person, transfers, tips, and service charges. Eat out at the bustling indoor Markthalle Basel Food fanatics can explore the city's culinary landscape visiting the Markthalle Basel, which is included in First Choice's Self-guided Food Tour excursion, where you can try international cuisines and Swiss dishes including fondue, raclette and iconic Älplermagronen. With a range of samples of different dishes to choose from, visitors can find the right dish for them. Basel, Switzerland Pick a stay at the BandB Hotel Basel, a sleek, modern hotel just a 20 minute walk to the enchanting Basel old town. Prices from £321** per person. Price is based on 2 adults sharing a standard double room, on a room only basis for 3 nights, flights departing from London Gatwick on 6th June 2025. Hand luggage only and transfers not included. For more information visit Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Find the 'covered' bridge in the nearby medieval city of Lucerne Uncover the hidden gem of Lucerne with TUI River Cruises' Lucerne City Tour excursion. The city is known for its magic-filled fairy tale architecture and scenic views. Look out for a lion monument carved into a sheer rock face, before heading towards the shores of Lake Lucerne – right beside the city, at the foot of a peak known as 'Dragon Mountain'. The tour will uncover the unique landmarks, a covered bridge decorated with century-old works of art and much more.
Extra.ie
30-04-2025
- Extra.ie
Gen Z men call time on the wild and boozy 'lads holiday'
It could be welcome news for chaps who prefer their breaks calm and relaxing rather than boozy and raucous. The 'lads holiday' – involving drinking to excess in an all-male group before returning home to find yourself in trouble with your partner – seems to be heading into the sunset. In a survey, 65% of younger men declared that such boozy breaks are outdated, and 69% said the prospect of going on one filled them with fear. Pic: Getty Images Some 53% admitted routinely making up excuses to get out of going, and as many as 81% feel pressured to act macho, while 66% struggle to keep up with the excessive partying. Feeling forced to drink more than usual, spending cash you don't have and knowing your partner hates you being away all add to the apprehension. In fact, 47% confess they would much rather go for a nice meal with their friends, attend a gig (33%) or simply go on a walking trip (24%). The survey of 2,000 Generation Z and Millennial men, commissioned by tour operator First Choice, suggests it takes an average of three days on an all-male holiday before it all becomes too much. Pic: Mariia Siurtukova / Getty Images One in six (15%) respondents said that a boys' break always ends up in chaos, while 14% would rather spend their money on a more relaxing type of trip. According to the study, it takes up to five days to physically recover from excessive drinking and six days to recover mentally. As a result, more than half (57%) admit they struggle with 'hang-xiety' – typically feelings of anxiety or panic after drinking, which can include racing thoughts and a regret about what happened while under the influence – after a boy's break. Pic: Shutterstock Other things which routinely happen on male-only trips include missed flights (24%), regrettable tattoos (20%), lost passports (16%), and even crying (14%). As a result, 65% say they have thought they are too old for these holidays, while 70% think the traditional 'lads' holiday' is now a thing of the past. Kevin Nelson of First Choice said: 'No one should feel pressured into being someone they're not on holiday or living up to outdated norms at the expense of their mental health. 'A lads' trip should be about fun, friendship, bonding and making memories. It's time to call for 'better boys' trips' – holidays that are about choice, authenticity, and having fun on your own terms.'
Scotsman
29-04-2025
- Scotsman
The 'Manflew' epidemic? First Choice and Calm team up to tackle hidden holiday crisis
Lads' holidays often begin with good intentions, but they don't always bring the fun and bonding they're meant to - sometimes, they end up adding pressure and stress instead. Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... New research from travel company First Choice has confirmed this, revealing that 69% of men aged 18-35 secretly dread going away with the boys, with over half (53%) making excuses to dodge the trip. The reality? 81% feel pressured to act more macho, while 66% struggle to keep up with the excessive partying and 'go hard or go home' mentality (39%). Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad As a result, more than half (57 percent) admit they struggle with 'hangxiety' - typically feelings of anxiety or panic after drinking, which can include racing thoughts, and a regret about what happened while under the influence - after a boy's break. First Choice is partnering with indie fashion brand Everpress to reimagine the classic holiday 'shit shirt' in a limited-edition drop of 'Lads Holiday' tees - with all proceeds going to CALM, helping to prevent suicide and support mental wellbeing. First Choice and Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) have teamed up to tackle the so-called 'Manflew Epidemic' - a new term recognising the anxiety that traditional lads' holiday stereotypes can bring. To combat the 'Manflew Epidemic', the two companies are campaigning for 'Better Boys Trips', challenging the limiting stereotype of lads' holidays and encouraging men to open up conversations about the type of trips they actually want to go on. This initiative isn't about cancelling lads' trips but giving men more choice - empowering them to curate holidays that suit them, free from peer pressure and expectations. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'We want everyone to pick the trips they really want' said Kevin Nelson, Managing Director of First Choice. 'No one should feel pressured into being someone they're not on holiday, or living up to outdated norms at the expense of their mental health. A lads' trip should be about fun, friendship, bonding, and making memories. First Choice is partnering with indie fashion brand Everpress to reimagine the classic holiday 'shit shirt' in a limited-edition drop of 'Lads Holiday' tees - with all proceeds going to CALM, helping to prevent suicide and support mental wellbeing. 'It's time to call for 'better boys trips' - holidays that are about choice, authenticity, and having fun on your own terms.' Simon Gunning, CEO of CALM, commented: 'Sometimes it can feel like you have to fit a certain mould on a lads' holiday - to be louder, wilder, or act in ways that don't quite feel like you. But the truth is, there's no one way to spend time with your mates. At CALM, we're all about encouraging open conversations and helping people feel more comfortable being themselves. That's why we're proud to support Better Boys Trips with First Choice - it's a reminder that holidays should be about connection, not pressure.' To redefine the lads' holiday, First Choice has curated a series of alternative Better Boys trips, that put a new spin on traditional 'laddy' destinations with classy hotels and more diverse experiences. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad As part of the movement, First Choice is partnering with indie fashion brand Everpress to reimagine the classic holiday 'shit shirt' in a limited-edition drop of 'Lads Holiday' tees - with all proceeds going to CALM, helping to prevent suicide and support mental wellbeing. The collection is available now, exclusively on Everpress. Get yours here to help support CALM, and redefine the lads' trip: Need help? Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) hosts a life-saving suicide prevention helpline and provides vital online mental health resources for anyone who needs them. Visit
The Independent
07-03-2025
- The Independent
Get up to £250 off your dream holiday with First Choice
With a change of season finally here, if you're looking to make a last-minute trip over Easter half term, plan a sunny getaway over the summer, or even book ahead for 2026, we've been busy finding ways to help you save more of your hard-earned cash (see our guides on how you can save on your easyJet, Emirates or Jet2Holidays flights). Whether you're picturing days spent splashing around in the sparkling sea on a long-haul trip, or have your heart set on a jam-packed city break, First Choice has thousands of options. The online travel agency and tour operator has holidays to a range of destinations, including Austria, Croatia, Jersey, Costa Rica, Mauritius and Sri Lanka. Holidays don't come cheap, but you shouldn't have to miss out. If you're ready to forget your daily grind for a week or two, and jet off somewhere new, you could save big when booking a First Choice holiday. Our deal experts have hunted down the very best discount codes and sales to help you book the holiday you've always dreamed of, for less. If your dream holiday consists of not having to worry about food and drink, or entertainment, then an all-inclusive package is for you. Right now, you can get up to £250 off all-inclusive bookings at First Choice, for holidays departing between March and September 2025. A four-night holiday to Majorca (from £278 per person, or a trip to Egypt (from £449 per person, are both included in the offer, as well as lots of other destinations. There are huge savings to be had on selected long-haul bookings too, including to Mexico, the Dominican Republic and Thailand. For a taste of luxury, visit East Winds – the week-long all-inclusive holiday to St Lucia has even been reduced by £1,122 per person (was £3,522, now £2,400, If you're thinking of something a little more cost-effective and family-friendly than the Caribbean, First Choice has got you covered. Create memories that will last a lifetime and save up to 20 per cent on family trips. Case in point: stays at Tui Blue Palm Garden in Antalya (was from £1,001 per person, now £562, have been reduced by £439 per person. But you can also save a generous £423 per person off a seven-night stay at Villatel Orlando Resort, including flights from London Gatwick (was from £1,639, now £1,216, which is perfect for families looking to embrace the Disney magic. How we choose the best First Choice discount codes Always on the hunt for the best travel deals and discounts, The Independent' s team of experts dedicate themselves to looking out for deals on flights, package holidays and experiences. We only recommend deals that we would shop, so you can trust that you'll find all the best First Choice savings here. Why you can trust us Since 1986, The Independent has been a trusted consumer champion, using years of expertise to report on behalf of our readers and find the best deals and discounts. Whether you're looking to book a holiday or shop some of the biggest annual shopping events (like Amazon Prime Day, Black Friday and the Boxing Day sales), our skilled team are always looking out for the best ways to save you money, so we only bring you the best deals from brands we love.
