Britons abroad - beer, love and languages

While the stereotype of holidaying Britons is one of sunburnt lager louts a new study proves there is more to Brits abroad than beer and beaches.

Halifax Travel Insurance revealed that British holidaymakers are the nationality most likely to speak to locals in their own language, as well as the group that is most likely to stay in the sun too long.

And along with over indulgence with booze, which travel experts voted UK residents top for, Britons are also the nationality most likely to find love while overseas.

Brits are also the most likely nationality to organise and pay for their trip using the internet, and second only to French holidaymakers as the nationality most likely to try the local food.

However, perhaps spurred on by alcohol and love, Britons are also the most likely nationality to get into trouble with the police.

"We all know that a few bad apples give us Brits a reputation for being holiday hell raisers, so we thought we should see if there is another side to the story," said Vicky Emmott, senior underwriting manager at Halifax Travel Insurance.

"When you look at the overall results Brits do actually come across as adventurous, determined to join in and get under the skin of the country they are visiting."

But Brits were not the only ones to live up to stereotypes, with German holidaymakers found to be the most likely to get up first and drape a towel over sunbeds.