easyJet vacations launches 24/7 World Cup hubs as fans prepare to sacrifice sleep for tournaments | News
As football fans across the UK prepare for a summer of high-stakes matches, new research from easyJet Holidays shows the traditional holiday is being swapped for ‘fan-cation’, with Brits going to extraordinary lengths to ensure they don’t miss a single minute of the World Cup action.
A survey of British holidaymakers reveals a clear divide between relaxation and team loyalty. With tournament matches not starting until 1am UK time due to the transatlantic time difference, fans refuse to be hampered by a change of scenery. Travelers exchange the sofa in the living room for a Mediterranean lounger and actively look for destinations that fit the tournament atmosphere.
Passports and penalties
Although managing time zones on holiday can be tricky, research shows that UK fans consider match days to be the most important event. Nearly half (48%) admit they would happily skip a pre-booked holiday excursion, day out or even a romantic dinner if it clashed with a crucial knockout match.
The social compromises don’t end at dinner; The data shows that more than a quarter (27%) of football-loving partners have admitted to causing a ‘holiday row’ over fixtures. This holiday friction is hitting younger generations the hardest, as the data shows there’s an outright generational divide when it comes to viewing boundaries. A whopping 62% of Gen Z and 61% of Millennials claim that playing a game at an intimate holiday party is totally fine, compared to just 30% of Baby Boomers, who demand total quiet.
The desire for atmosphere also determines booking behavior. Rather than avoiding the hype, more than a third (38%) of supporters say they deliberately book trips to countries with promising football atmospheres just to soak up the local fan culture and celebrate when a goal is scored.
The price of passion
For the ultimate fan, watching the game on a smartphone screen by the pool simply isn’t enough. Holidaymakers are looking for a communal atmosphere. 70% say they consider a hotel’s filming facilities and atmosphere a top priority, and more than half (59%) admit they would pay a premium of up to £100 per person for a resort that guarantees a dedicated tournament centre.
To meet this demand, easyJet vacations has identified the ultimate match-ready resorts across Europe and North Africa, where fans can enjoy guaranteed sunshine alongside guaranteed screenings.
The ultimate “fan-cation” hot list
Hotel & destination
What is offered
Los Zocos Impressive Lanzarote (Lanzarote, Spain)
Large pool bar, fully decorated with competing country flags and tournament decor, plus extended bar hours for the ultimate late-night experience.
Zeus Eleva Mirabello Bay (Crete, Greece)
Offers extended all-inclusive hours for late-night North American kick-offs in a comfortable environment, with noise-conscious zones.
Grand Palladium Sicilia Resort & Spa (Sicily, Italy)
The Xtra Time Sports Bar serves American-style snacks, hot dogs and a huge selection of drinks on multiple flat-screen TVs.
Hilton Dalaman Sarigerme Resort and Spa (Dalaman, Turkey)
Sleek indoor F-Lounge, with special English-language broadcasts, comfortable bar stool seating and the promise of showing every match.
Alua Suites Fuerteventura (Fuerteventura, Spain)
Stadium atmosphere on a giant screen in the resort’s main theater, public viewings in the Plaza and Agua Bar, plus free-to-air matches in private suites.
Mayfair Hotel (Paphos, Cyprus)
The Flying Pig Sports Bar & Grill features big screens and a dedicated, fan-first atmosphere built for tournament drama.
Acrogiali Beach Hotel (Mykonos, Greece)
Very comfortable, designated screening areas with large screens right on the beach, designed for fans who want luxury with their live sports.
Sunrise Solara & Alora Aqua Park Resort (Hurghada, Egypt)
Energetic atmosphere at the stadium in dedicated sports bars and lively viewing areas where every match is shown live under the sun.
Choosing a dedicated sports resort takes the stress out of searching for a local pub showing the game. From late night burgers during extra time to screens by the pool, easyJet holidays ensure travelers get more bang for their buck and more purpose for their getaway. A list of all hotels where you can get started can be found here: World Cup holidays ⚽ Football-friendly hotels | easyJet holidays
Stuart Wright, Customer Director at easyJet Holidays, said: “We know how much our customers are looking forward to their summer holidays, but we also know that true football fans can’t just switch off their passion at passport control. Our data shows that ‘Fan-cations’ are a key trend this summer, with Brits refusing to compromise on their holiday or their team. By showcasing our top tournament resorts, we’re making it easier than ever to enjoy great value prices, guaranteed sunshine and a seat. in the front row for all sports enthusiasts.”
Leave the remote control, take the sun
With easyJet holiday packages including flights, 23kg luggage, hotel accommodation and transfers, all backed by a low deposit of just £60 per person, there’s never been a better time to take your support on tour.
