/ 15 June 2005

Most holiday romances dead within a week

Most single Britons regard a holiday romance as an essential part of a summer vacation, but most will fizzle out within a week of returning to the British drizzle, a survey revealed on Wednesday.

Nearly nine in 10 holiday flings are over within the week and last just three days on average, the survey for Sky Travel said.

The majority of the 2 000 people surveyed said they had experienced a holiday romance and nearly half said the heady mix of sun, sea and sand made falling in love all the easier.

However, the survey contained key warnings for fashion-conscious holiday-makers seeking summer loving.

Some British seaside staples of yesteryear were potent women-repellent, the survey showed.

The knotted handkerchief on the head and string vests were a distinct turn-off, while men wearing thongs, tight swimming trunks and chunky jewellery were also more likely to repulse the ladies than set pulses racing.

Men detested ladies with hairy armpits and fake designer gear.

However, both sexes were irritated by drunken youths, screeching children, street peddlars and people who clap once the plane lands. – Sapa-AFP