Most Japanese feel stressed sitting next to other people on a flight: survey results
Traveling can evoke a wide range of emotions in travelers, which can range from excitement to panic. According to a study by travel service provider Expedia, among 11 travelers living around the world, Japanese tourists are the most likely to experience stress when sitting next to strangers on an airplane.
In general, the survey showed that "Sitting next to someone I don't know" was chosen by 26% of Japanese respondents. Japan Today noted that this figure is 4% higher than the share of Americans who indicated the sky as their source of stress.
Respondents who believe that sitting next to a stranger is the most stressful factor during a flight:
- Japan - 26%;
- USA - 22%;
- Australia - 19%;
- United Kingdom - 18%;
- Canada (English-speaking) - 17%;
- Germany - 16%;
- Mexico - 15%;
- Hong Kong - 15%;
- Canada (French-speaking) - 14%;
- Singapore - 14%;
- France - 10%.
It is noted that the causative agent of stress caused by the reluctance to sit next to strangers is not known for certain. However, it is likely that the reason for this inconvenience may be the mentality of the country and its isolated island location.
In addition, additional reasons for concern may include the language barrier, insufficient level of communication and socialization compared to foreigners, as well as the almost complete lack of conflict among Japanese residents.
At the same time, although most Japanese people consider the presence of other passengers next to them to be the main cause of stress on an airplane, there are also those who feel absolutely at ease with strangers with whom they are unlikely to argue during the trip.
