• New study reveals the truth behind the classic ‘lads’ holiday’, with 69% of men under 35 admitting they ‘dread it’  

• First Choice is introducing new ‘better boys trips’ itineraries to encourage a different type of lads getaway for the younger generation 

• The travel company is also collaborating with fashion brand Everpress to re-invent the trashy holiday t-shirt 

20th April 2025: Lads’ holidays often begin with good intentions, but they don’t always bring the fun and bonding they’re meant to – sometimes, they end up adding pressure and stress instead.  

New research from travel company First Choice has confirmed this, revealing that 69% of men aged 18-35 secretly dread going away with the boys, with over half (53%) make excuses to dodge the trip.  A hidden holiday crisis termed Manflew recognises the anxiety that traditional lads’ holiday stereotypes can bring. 

To redefine the lads’ holiday, First Choice has curated a series of alternative Better Boys Trips, that put a new spin on traditional ‘laddy’ destinations with classy hotels and more diverse experiences. 

“We want everyone to pick the trips they really want” said Kevin Nelson, Managing Director of First Choice. “No one should feel pressured into being someone they’re not on holiday, or living up to outdated norms at the expense of their mental health. A lads’ trip should be about fun, friendship, bonding, and making memories. 

A weekend in Prague doesn’t just need to be about bar hopping; why not learn to pour beer properly instead of just drinking it.  And for those who dread the idea of foam parties in Ayia Napa why not book a botanical soap making course instead?  Or learn to create clogs in Amsterdam?  It’s time to call for ‘better boy’s trips’ – holidays that are about choice, authenticity, and having fun on your own terms.” 

The itineraries are part of a wider campaign from First Choice and Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) to challenge the limiting stereotype of lads’ holidays and encouraging men to open up conversations about the type of trips they actually want to go on.  

This initiative isn’t about cancelling lads’ trips but giving men more choice – empowering them to curate holidays that suit them, free from peer pressure and expectations. 

Simon Gunning, CEO of CALM, commented: “Sometimes it can feel like you have to fit a certain mould on a lads’ holiday – to be louder, wilder, or act in ways that don’t quite feel like you. But the truth is, there’s no one way to spend time with your mates. At CALM, we’re all about encouraging open conversations and helping people feel more comfortable being themselves. That’s why we’re proud to support Better Boys Trips with First Choice – it’s a reminder that holidays should be about connection, not pressure.” 

As part of the movement, First Choice is also partnering with indie fashion brand Everpress to reimagine the classic holiday ‘shit shirt’ in a limited-edition drop of ‘Lads Holiday’ tees – with all proceeds going to CALM, helping to prevent suicide and support mental wellbeing. 

The collection is available now, exclusively on Everpress. Get yours here to help support CALM and redefine the lads’ trip. 

Need help? Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) hosts a life-saving suicide prevention helpline and provides vital online mental health resources for anyone who needs them. Visit www.thecalmzone.net.  

Curated ‘Better Boys’ trips from First Choice

Prague 

• The Century Old Town Prague is a classy, grown up approach to Prague with plush velvet and gold rooms, set in a fab central location a few minutes from the bustling town square and loads of local sightseeing spots. 

• Take in some of the local sights and learn about the Czech Resistance’s historical impact on the war with a walking WWII tour. With an incredibly knowledgeable local guide, you’ll visit the spots where the country’s heroes fought their last battle, learn more about the Prague uprising and the local resistance, and discover some of the buildings and landmarks associated with World War II.   

• Swap raves and nightclubs for a different musical scene with a Classical Concert in St. Nicholas church. Listen to a full orchestra playing some of the biggest pieces from history, all set against the backdrop of a beautiful baroque church in the heart of Old Town.  

Zante 

• The Pallas Hotel is a family run boujie boutique in a rural spot on the edge of Laganas, Zante. Highlights of this place include the surrounding olive groves, boutique pool, minimalist rooms and weekly barbeque nights. Despite it’s quiet location, the beach is just 20 minutes away and lively Zante is closer at 10.  

• Swap WKD for wine tasting with a secrets of Zante boat tour. This experience starts on land, exploring some of the prettiest local villages, a family-owned olive oil and Kampi tasting experiences and the 14th-century Anafonitria Monastery, before hopping on a boat to the Blue Caves, one of the deepest points in the Med.  

• See an authentic side of Greece with food and live music at Popolaros Taverna. Visit a family run taverna where you’ll indulge in authentic dishes prepared at the local farm and live performers showcase traditional Zakynthian music and dance.  

Ayia Napa 

• The Grecian Bay Hotel is in a laid back modern spot in the famous Ayia Napa white sands. This spot is all about relaxation with luxury spa treatments, a tropical themed beach bar and a cocktail-to-lounger beach service. But for those who want more of the action, it’s just a 10-minute walk to the town centre.  

• Go full wholesome vibes with a botanical park soap-making class. Start with a tour of the park’s gardens before heading to the distillation room, where you’ll learn about the power of herbs and essential oils before making your own soap creations. 

• Head out onto the Mediterranean sea to try your hand at deep sea fishing. With the help of experienced fishermen, this luxury yacht tour will see you catch anything from barracuda to sea bream, sea bass, and even octopus. 

Amsterdam   

• Jaz in the City is a quirky hotel in the Zuidoost area of Amsterdam. It’s unique but laid back interior is an adults take on a funky European hostel, with artwork everywhere, a sleek bar, spa facilities and a high tech gym on site.  

• Soak up authentic Dutch history with a clog factory visit and cheese tasting experience. Wander through colourful windmills in Zaanse Schans before visiting a local wooden shoemakers shop for a live demo and then taste as much local cheese as you can at an Dutch cheese farm.  

• Live like a local with an international comedy show at the Comedy Embassy. For nearly a decade, the Comedy Embassy has been the central comedic venue in the city, and ever Friday the theatre welcomes international comedians for a round of stand-up.