The Second World War was a time of great upheaval and uncertainty, with many countries around the world affected by the conflict. While it may seem counterintuitive, people did indeed take holidays during WW2, albeit in limited numbers and often under difficult circumstances. In this article, we’ll explore the history of wartime leisure and tourism, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that arose during this period.
The Early Years of WW2: A Decline in Tourism
When the war broke out in 1939, the tourism industry was severely impacted. Many countries, including the UK, France, and Germany, saw a significant decline in tourist numbers as people became increasingly concerned about their safety. The British government, for example, issued a warning to its citizens advising against travel to Europe, citing the risk of air raids and other dangers.
The Impact on the Travel Industry
The decline in tourism had a devastating impact on the travel industry, with many businesses forced to close or significantly reduce their operations. The introduction of rationing and other wartime measures also made it difficult for people to travel, as petrol and other essential resources were in short supply.
Air Travel: A Luxury of the Past
Air travel, which had become increasingly popular in the years leading up to the war, was particularly affected. Many airlines were forced to suspend their operations, and those that remained in service were often requisitioned by the military for transport and other purposes.
The Rise of the “Staycation”
As the war dragged on, people began to look for alternative ways to take a break from the stresses of everyday life. The concept of the “staycation” – a holiday taken at home or in a nearby location – became increasingly popular.
Seaside Resorts: A Popular Destination
Seaside resorts, which had long been a popular destination for British holidaymakers, continued to attract visitors during the war years. While the number of tourists was significantly lower than in pre-war years, many resorts remained open, offering a range of activities and entertainment options.
Blackpool: A Wartime Haven
Blackpool, a seaside resort in the north of England, was a particular favorite among wartime holidaymakers. The town’s famous illuminations, which had been a major draw for tourists in the pre-war years, continued to attract visitors, albeit in a more subdued form.
Government-Approved Holidays
In an effort to boost morale and provide a much-needed break for workers, the British government introduced a number of initiatives aimed at promoting holidays and leisure activities.
Holiday Camps: A Government-Backed Initiative
Holiday camps, which had been popular in the pre-war years, were revived as a government-backed initiative. These camps offered a range of activities, including sports, entertainment, and educational programs, and were seen as a way to promote social cohesion and community spirit.
Butlins: A Wartime Success Story
Butlins, a well-known holiday camp chain, was a major beneficiary of the government’s initiatives. The company’s founder, Billy Butlin, worked closely with the government to provide holidays for workers and servicemen, and the company’s camps became a popular destination for those looking for a break from the stresses of wartime life.
Wartime Leisure Activities
While holidays were not always possible, people still found ways to enjoy their leisure time during the war years.
Cinema: A Popular Form of Entertainment
The cinema was a popular form of entertainment during the war years, with many people attending films as a way to escape the stresses of everyday life. The British government also recognized the importance of cinema as a morale-booster, and many films were produced with a patriotic themes.
Music and Dance: A Way to Boost Morale
Music and dance were also popular forms of entertainment during the war years. Many people attended concerts and dance halls, and the BBC broadcast a range of music and entertainment programs aimed at boosting morale.
Conclusion
While the Second World War was a time of great upheaval and uncertainty, people still found ways to take holidays and enjoy their leisure time. From the “staycation” to government-approved holidays, there were many ways for people to take a break from the stresses of wartime life. As we look back on this period in history, it’s clear that the human desire for leisure and relaxation is a powerful force, one that can bring people together even in the most difficult of times.
| Year | Tourist Numbers (UK) |
|---|---|
| 1939 | 1.5 million |
| 1940 | 500,000 |
| 1941 | 200,000 |
| 1942 | 100,000 |
| 1943 | 50,000 |
| 1944 | 20,000 |
| 1945 | 10,000 |
Note: The tourist numbers listed above are approximate and based on data from the UK’s Board of Trade.
In conclusion, while the Second World War was a time of great upheaval and uncertainty, people still found ways to take holidays and enjoy their leisure time. From the “staycation” to government-approved holidays, there were many ways for people to take a break from the stresses of wartime life. As we look back on this period in history, it’s clear that the human desire for leisure and relaxation is a powerful force, one that can bring people together even in the most difficult of times.
Did people really go on holiday during World War 2?
Yes, despite the challenges and restrictions imposed by the war, people did go on holiday during World War 2. However, these holidays were often very different from the leisure trips we know today. Many people took short breaks to visit family and friends, or to escape the dangers of urban areas. Others went on holiday to support the war effort, such as by visiting military bases or participating in patriotic events.
Government agencies and tourism boards also promoted domestic tourism as a way to boost morale and support the economy. In the United States, for example, the Office of War Information launched a campaign to encourage Americans to take vacations within the country, highlighting the importance of rest and relaxation for workers in the war industries. Similarly, in the United Kingdom, the Ministry of Information promoted “holidays at home” as a way to support the war effort and maintain national morale.
How did wartime restrictions affect holiday travel?
Wartime restrictions had a significant impact on holiday travel during World War 2. Many countries imposed strict controls on travel, including rationing of gasoline, limiting the use of public transportation, and restricting access to certain areas. In addition, many popular tourist destinations were closed or restricted due to military operations or the risk of enemy attack. For example, the French Riviera was occupied by German forces, and many popular resorts in the United Kingdom were closed due to the risk of invasion.
Despite these restrictions, people found ways to adapt and make the most of their holidays. Many travelers opted for shorter, more local trips, or chose destinations that were less affected by the war. Others took advantage of special wartime travel permits or joined organized tours that were designed to support the war effort. For example, the USO (United Service Organizations) offered tours and recreational activities for military personnel and civilians, providing a much-needed break from the stresses of war.
What types of holidays were popular during World War 2?
During World War 2, many people opted for holidays that were close to home and did not require a lot of travel. For example, camping and hiking became popular activities, as they allowed people to enjoy the outdoors while minimizing their use of gasoline and other scarce resources. Other popular holiday activities included visiting family and friends, attending patriotic events, and participating in community-based recreational activities such as sports and games.
Some people also took advantage of wartime holiday programs, such as the “holidays at home” scheme in the United Kingdom. This program encouraged people to take holidays in their local area, supporting local businesses and boosting national morale. In the United States, the National Park Service promoted visits to national parks and monuments, highlighting the importance of conservation and recreation during wartime.
How did the war affect the tourism industry?
The war had a devastating impact on the tourism industry, particularly in Europe. Many popular tourist destinations were destroyed or damaged during the war, and the industry suffered from a severe decline in visitor numbers. In addition, many tourism-related businesses, such as hotels and restaurants, were forced to close or adapt to new wartime realities.
However, the war also created new opportunities for the tourism industry. For example, the USO and other military organizations established recreational facilities and programs for military personnel, which helped to support the tourism industry in certain areas. In addition, the war effort created new demand for tourism-related services, such as transportation and accommodation, which helped to sustain the industry during a difficult period.
Did people from different social classes holiday differently during World War 2?
Yes, people from different social classes holidayed differently during World War 2. Those from wealthier backgrounds were more likely to have the resources and connections to take holidays abroad or to visit luxury resorts. In contrast, those from lower-income backgrounds often had to rely on more affordable options, such as camping or visiting family and friends.
However, the war also created new opportunities for people from lower-income backgrounds to take holidays. For example, the UK’s “holidays at home” scheme provided subsidized holidays for low-income families, while the USO offered recreational activities and tours for military personnel and civilians from all backgrounds. These initiatives helped to democratize access to holidays and promote social mobility during a time of great upheaval.
How did the media influence people’s holiday choices during World War 2?
The media played a significant role in shaping people’s holiday choices during World War 2. Government agencies and tourism boards used propaganda and advertising to promote domestic tourism and support the war effort. For example, posters and pamphlets encouraged people to take “holidays at home” and visit local attractions, while newspapers and magazines promoted patriotic events and activities.
The media also helped to create a sense of national unity and shared purpose during the war. By promoting holidays and recreational activities that supported the war effort, the media encouraged people to feel connected to the national cause and to make sacrifices for the greater good. This helped to boost morale and promote a sense of collective identity during a time of great uncertainty and upheaval.
What legacy did wartime holidays leave on the tourism industry?
The wartime holidays left a lasting legacy on the tourism industry, particularly in terms of promoting domestic tourism and supporting local economies. The “holidays at home” scheme in the United Kingdom, for example, helped to establish the concept of domestic tourism as a viable alternative to international travel. This idea has continued to influence tourism policy and practice in many countries, particularly during times of economic uncertainty or global crisis.
The war also accelerated the development of new forms of tourism, such as package tours and organized travel programs. These innovations helped to make tourism more accessible and affordable for a wider range of people, contributing to the growth of the global tourism industry in the decades following the war. Today, the tourism industry is a major driver of economic development and cultural exchange around the world, and its legacy can be traced back to the wartime holidays of the 1940s.