Two thirds of individuals over the age of 35 are yearning for a Christmas reminiscent of the 1980s, claiming that the music, films and gifts were better during that era.
A recent survey revealed that four in 10 believe the 80s were the golden age of festive indulgence and that now ‘Christmas isn’t what it used to be’. In response, a third wish to resurrect the ‘magic’ of the holiday season.
For those parents who celebrated their own Christmases in the 80s, a quarter desire their children to experience the holiday in the same manner they did in their youth.
This sentiment is echoed by nearly half of the respondents who believe it’s crucial to pass on their own childhood traditions to their families.
In an attempt to cater to this surge of nostalgia, Booking.com is set to recreate the magic of an 80s Christmas with the unveiling of the exclusive ‘Home of Christmas Past’, a one-time 1980s-themed homestay in London.
This distinctive London property, which will be available for rent via the Booking.com app or website on Tuesday 10 December, promises a nostalgic journey back in time.
Ryan Pearson, representing the online travel agency, commented: “Nostalgia is a big trend, not only in entertainment, fashion and home decor, but also travel.”
“We see people booking trips to places they loved when they were younger, both at Christmas and during warmer months.”
“For many of the people we polled, memories of a simpler time is what’s driving a lot of this sentiment.”
The Home of Christmas Past will be available to book on a first come first serve basis for up to four guests checking-in for two nights on December 13 at a cost of just £19.80.
20 THINGS THAT TRIGGER 80s CHRISTMAS NOSTALGIA:
- Classic TV shows
- Specific songs
- Listening to Christmas Top of the Pops
- Opening presents early on Christmas morning
- Watching The Snowman or similar classics
- Family gatherings with extended relatives
- Receiving catalogues like Argos or Woolworths to pick presents
- Tinsel-covered Christmas trees
- Family traditions like board game nights after dinner
- Watching iconic 1980s Christmas ads (e.g., Coca-Cola trucks)
- Christmas cards displayed across the walls
- The smell of particular festive foods or candles
- Advent calendars with simple chocolate treats
- Toys or games
- School nativity plays or Christmas concerts
- Decorations or home décor
- Homemade Christmas buffets
- Making paper chains or foil garlands
- Watching VHS tapes of Christmas specials
- Shopping trips with 1980s-style festive store windows