There’s more to holidaymaking Brits than meets the eye according to a recent poll of travel industry experts. The study conducted by Halifax Travel Insurance has attempted to uncover the truth behind the stereotypes attached to Brits abroad and has revealed that were not all lobsters and lager louts.

According to the study Brits - usually seen as linguistically challenged - were named as the nationality most likely to speak to locals in their own language. Brits are also the third most likely to show an interest in local history and culture, as well as mixing with people from other countries.

And its not just all day fry-ups and everything with chips that satisfy our hunger while we are away - Brits were second only to the French as being the most likely nation to sample local cooking and delicacies.

When it comes to booking a holiday, Brits are the most independent travellers being the most likely to use the internet to organise and pay for their trip and associated items, such as travel insurance. They are also most likely to book a holiday that indulges a hobby. And while Australians are most likely to book a holiday destination off the beaten track, Britons run a very close second.

Unfortunately many stereotypes appear to be grounded in reality - British holiday makers are the most likely to get sunburn, over-indulge on booze, have a holiday romance and get into trouble with the local police.

Vicky Emmott, senior underwriting manager at Halifax Travel Insurance, said: 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. 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."

Brits are certainly not the only ones to be guilty of playing to stereotypes. According to the study Germans do get up the earliest to secure a sun bed with a towel, but British sun worshippers arent far behind them.