On average, Germans feel 4,2 years younger after their holiday. This is the result of a survey conducted by YouGov on behalf of TUI. 37 percent of Germans not only feel refreshed after their holiday in the south of Gran Canaria, they even feel younger or say they look younger. Another 31 percent may partially agree with this statement. "The survey is international but these data are perfectly valid for the south of Gran Canaria," said a TUI spokesperson when interviewed by Maspalomas24H.
Whether nature, wellness or cultural attractions – German travellers know what relaxes them. According to the survey, experiences in nature (85%), relaxation and well-being (79%), time with family and friends (75%) and time away from work (72%) are the most important feel-good factors. Thus, 22 percent of holidaymakers feel five years younger after their holiday and another 15 percent rate the “fountain of youth effect” even higher (15 percent in total). The majority (38 percent) estimate that the “fountain of youth effect” can last between one and three years. On average, respondents said they felt 4,2 years younger after their holiday.
The impact of vacation extends far beyond the time spent traveling. Most Germans experience the “fountain of youth effect” (looking or feeling younger) for a period of between a few days and two weeks (59 percent). For ten percent of respondents, it lasts three weeks, and for fourteen percent, even up to a month.
“Germans will continue to travel in 2025: According to a TUI study, 60 percent of respondents plan at least one multi-day holiday trip. The survey data shows that one third of those who want to travel have already booked their holiday for 2025. Every fifth person plans to travel more compared to 2024. 37 percent of respondents want to book at least two trips in the coming year. The trend is clear: despite economic uncertainty, holidays remain a priority for many,” says Sebastian Ebel, CEO of TUI Group.
The results of TUI’s current YouGov survey are in line with a scientific study from Edith Cowan University (ECU) in Australia. It has been shown that travelling can not only increase wellbeing but also delay the signs of ageing. The study suggests that positive travel experiences – physical activity, social interactions, positive emotions and exposure to new environments – can strengthen the immune system, boost metabolism and promote the body’s natural self-healing.
“In short: the body's self-defence system becomes more resilient. “Travelling is not only a leisure and relaxation activity, but can also make a decisive contribution to physical and mental health,” emphasises study leader Fangli Hu. For example, moderate activities such as hiking, cycling or climbing could support metabolism and blood circulation and improve the body's resistance to external influences. The representative study was conducted by YouGov on behalf of TUI. 29 adults in Germany were interviewed online between 31 and 2.169 November. The data will be published online until 2 December 2024. Unless otherwise stated in the text, the figures mentioned refer to 1.431 people who travelled in the past 24 months.
