The summer holidays are under way and new research by Homestay.com reveals that British holidaymakers intend to be more adventurous than ever when it comes to embracing their destination.

Despite claims that they are culturally ignorant abroad, a survey of more than 2,000 British tourists found that the modern Brit yearns for local history and cuisine, with three-quarters intending to learn 15 phrases in a foreign language while they’re abroad.

The research reveals that the typical British tourist is now more of a culture vulture than holiday resort recluse.

The priority for 70 per cent of the Brits surveyed was to gain an increased understanding of the country they’ve visited.

Only 14 per cent said they intend to befriend a Brit while away, preferring instead to socialise with the locals.

Challenging the negative stereotype of the Brit abroad, the modern Brit will shun the sun lounger and English breakfast this summer.

The study shows that the average Briton intends to visit five local attractions and try six local dishes or drinks during their holiday.

The ideal length of break was 10 days and, interestingly, without seemingly being able to go onto social media at this time of year without being confronted by a holiday-selfie, 40 per cent of the respondents said that they intend to shun social media completely.

Alan Clarke, CEO for Homestay.com, said: “The research clearly shows how much our priorities have changed when it comes to our summer holidays. Millions of Brits now want to explore the country they’re visiting and really learn about their destination, as opposed to just lounging by the pool and topping up their tans.”