The relaxation revolution has been inspired by a dramatic change in people's lifestyles over the past ten years as the stress of modern living means that they are stuck in 'overdrive' and can no longer 'switch off' simply because they are on a break.  Instead they are looking for a fusion holiday Ð incorporating a blend of experiences, which helps them to unwind.

Delivering new holidays at sea and ashore, Ocean Village has been launched to cater for those thrill-seeking couples that like to wind-down by mixing their action-packed holidays with a lie by the pool. Activities on offer include mountain biking, abseiling, jet skiing and jeep safaris.

Managing Director of Ocean Village, Nick Lighton, says:

"People are living younger, longer. They seek stimulating experiences and demand choice in everything they do Ð holidays are no exception!"

Chill and Challenge
 
The Ocean Village holiday experience caters directly to the growing demand for choice on holiday. 82% of those questioned stated that variety is important to the overall enjoyment of their holiday Ð figures which represent a significant development in the UK's attitude towards holidaymaking. 52% of those asked demanded access to active sports, such as jet skiing and abseiling, with similar numbers seeking cultural (74%) and 'mind and body' (47%) activities whilst on holiday.  This is a far different picture from ten years ago when the perfect holiday comprised sunbathing, eating and drinking exclusively.

Ocean Village features a fusion of on-board and on-shore activities, including mountain biking Ð the ship carries its own fleet of bikes ready for trips ashore - parasailing, helicopter flightseeing, snorkelling and even quad biking.  Other options include tours of Monte Carlo's Grand Prix circuit and the film festival hotspots of Cannes, wine-tasting in Tuscany and Italian cookery classes in Santa Margherita.
 
Lighton comments:

"Ocean Village offers 'chill and challenge' holidays - not only can holidaymakers take it easy in the usual sense but they can also return home having enjoyed a wealth of exciting experiences."

Feeling Flexible?

Flexibility has emerged as integral to the overall 'success' of holidays. With work and time pressures causing people to lead separate lives, when confronted with 24/7 holiday 'togetherness' over three-quarters (76%) of couples admitted arguing with their partners over what to do while on holidays. In addition, 64% of those questioned disagreed as to whether to enjoy activities together or separately.

Another source of conflict between couples is planning on where to go on holiday. Of couples that argue in the run up to the holiday, 78% argue over the choice of destination and would prefer a holiday option which offers a number of places to explore.

Freedom to do 'what they want, when they want' was of utmost importance to holidaymakers.  Over half (52%) of those questioned would prefer to do their own thing than be approached or encouraged to participate in activities by holiday reps.

Lighton says that flexibility reduces the risk of holidaymakers feeling disgruntled about having to take part in something that they are not interested in.

"On-board/on-shore activity holidays allow people to chill out and de-stress any way they want to, whether with their partner, in a group or by having more time to themselves.  They can even spend a week at one of the resorts in Majorca, followed by a week at sea Ð it is the best of both worlds."

"Ocean Village also helps couples with differing interests enjoy a great holiday together, particularly where one half likes to go flat out at sports and the other half wants to go flat out by the pool. "

Informality in Demand

The third demand on holidaymaker's list Ð as revealed in the report - is the demand for an informal environment, without compromising on quality.

"Its an obvious correlation that people who want to be flexible on holiday also want to be casual, particularly in the way they dress," Lighton says.

To cater for this need, Ocean Village offers informal buffet dining 24/7, in contrast to the silver service DJ or shirt and tie option.  For those seeking something more special, the bistro boasts Mediterranean inspired dishes from celebrity chef, James Martin, while still continuing the 'tie-free' theme.

Over one-third (35%) of those questioned believe that their holidays say something about either the sort of person that they are or reflect their lifestyles, underlining the need for those holidays to live up to expectations and deliver a fulfilling experience.

Lighton comments:

"Holidays which offer a diversity of activity, maximum flexibility and an atmosphere of informality are the most likely to satisfy this very demanding generation of holidaymakers with diverse needs. Ocean Village fulfils these needs, allowing guests to see more, do more and be more."