Almost three quarters (70%) of people are more adventurous on long-haul holidays, a new poll reveals.

As interest in far away destinations continues to grow, the Thomson survey of 2,000 adults also showed that 90% said they enjoyed experiencing new and exciting excursions when on holiday.

The results were published to coincide with Thomson Airways expanding its long haul network with weekly flights from Gatwick to Colombo in Sri Lanka.

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner service is the only direct flight to Sri Lanka by the British airline from the UK.

The country is seen as a key emerging destination to explore with options ranging from tour and stay itineraries to beach stays in five star resorts.

Excursions include wildlife watching, visits to view stilt fishermen, tea plantations and the 600 foot high Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage ancient palace.