1 in 5 Brits eager to explore UFO hotspots
New research has revealed the world's top UFO hotspots as British holidaymakers increasingly seek out destinations associated with extraterrestrial activity. Olivia Palamountain reports
An Opodo survey of 1,500 UK holidaymakers has found that 28% of Brits believe in aliens, with one in five claiming to have seen a UFO - rising to one in three among those under 34. The research indicates 22% would be more likely to visit a destination known for UFO sightings.
According to the data, Nevada's Valley of Fire has emerged as the world's top UFO hotspot. The study, which analysed UFO sightings across 35 global locations, reveals the rugged American state park leads with 18 official sightings, predominantly of orange or green "fireballs".
California's Death Valley ranks second with 17 recorded sightings, notably of "oval" crafts. The desert valley, one of Earth's hottest places, mirrors Mercury's scorching temperatures and barren landscape.
According to Opodo, one witness account in Death Valley describes sighting "a UFO that splits into two and later takes off emitting a blue streak."
Iceland's Vatnajökull Glacier ranks third with 14 reported UFO sightings, mostly of unidentified crafts. The location also scores 9/10 on Opodo's stargazing index, offering visitors exceptional views of the Northern Lights and, on clear nights, the Milky Way.
This surge in extraterrestrial interest follows recent US government disclosures of UFO encounters and recent space missions such as NASA's Europa Clipper.
The trend aligns with broader travel preferences, as 24% of Brits seek alternatives to usual holiday destinations, while 38% desire unique experiences and 54% prioritise natural beauty.
Looking ahead, nearly a third of respondents believe commercial space travel will become available in their lifetime, with 11% expressing eagerness to participate. When asked about potential planetary destinations, Mars proved most popular at 23%, followed by Saturn (8%) and Jupiter (7%).
The study focused on locations that mirror other planets' landscapes, considering factors such as climate, terrain, and colour palette to help travellers experience otherworldly environments without leaving Earth.