Exhausted after the school holidays? It might be time to check in to a hotel

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1 in 10 Brits haven’t had night alone in 10 yearssarayut Thaneerat - Getty Images

The kids have gone back to school, but the exhaustion from dealing with them for their six week break remains.

A new study found that 68% of UK parents said they are in need of a solo break to recover from the summer holiday season, according to new research from IHG Hotels and Resorts.

Through a series of surveys sent out to both UK adults and employed parents, IHG found that many Brits are in need of some self-care, with seven in 10 parents admitting to feeling mentally or physically exhausted by the end of the school summer holiday season.

Meanwhile, almost a third of people living with others in the UK – be it housemates or family members – say they want a night on their own for a post-summer pamper session.

Spending time alone is a great way to relax the body and mind after a chaotic, stressful or busy period. Enjoying our own company gives us time to engage in mindful practices, which can boost feelings of happiness and reduce stress levels.

Although having time alone is extremely beneficial, IHG found that many of us don’t do it enough. 1 in 10 people haven’t had a night on their own in the last five years, while 37% of parents admitted to feeling guilty at the thought of heading for a solo retreat.

To help reduce these feelings and encourage more people to take some time out, the IHG group have collaborated with TV personality and mum of four, Abbey Clancy, to launch a brand new ‘night on my own’ – or NOMO – package in their hotels.

What’s included?

If you book onto the NOMO package, you’ll certainly be in for a treat. Complete with a 20% discounted stay, extra-late 2pm checkout, free breakfast, and complimentary access to spa, gym and swimming pool facilities, this is the perfect way to unwind.

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‘We all value some well-deserved “me” time - whether it’s a break from the demands of childcare, a moment of self-reflection away from our partners or simply an opportunity to take a breath from the stress of our working life,’ says Managing Director UK&I at IHG Hotels & Resorts, Joanna Kurowska. Through the launch of this new package, Joanna is pleased to offer countless Brits an opportunity to switch off.

Abbey Clancy, who worked closely with IHG to launch NOMO, agrees. She said: ‘I love spending time with my kids, but it’s just as important for parents to take a break too. I don’t want to feel guilty about needing a NOMO – we all need time to recharge.’

‘It’s not just parents,’ she added, ‘the summer is a busy time for everyone – so, I’m all about encouraging people to treat themselves for a well-deserved night off. We’ve definitely earned it!’

Need a NOMO? Book on IHG from the 7th of September for stays before 25 October 2024.


What would Brits do if they spent a night alone?

According to IHG:

  • 14% would stay in bed

  • 15% would take a bath

  • 13% would binge a TV show

  • 12% would open a bottle of wine

  • 10% would read a new book



Read now: How to build self-compassion and confidence


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