International Tourism 2024: Return to Pre-Covid Levels
After three years of disruption due to the COVID-19 pandemic, international tourism is set to rebound in 2024, almost returning to 2019 levels. According to the latest data from the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), international travel in 2024 will reach 1.5 billion trips, down just 2% from 2019, when it experienced a sharp decline.
Key factors contributing to recovery
Several factors have played a key role in the recovery of international tourism:
- Removal of restrictions: Many countries have lifted travel restrictions and quarantine measures, which has helped boost tourism numbers.
- Growing consumer confidence: People are starting to feel comfortable with the idea of travel again, as evidenced by the rise in requests for flights and hotel bookings.
- Increased accessibility: The development of low-cost airlines and the expansion of routes has led to an increase in the availability of international destinations.
Geographic trends in international tourism 2024
The analysis shows that some regions of the world demonstrate special results. For example:
- Europe: European countries like Spain and Italy are once again attracting masses of tourists thanks to their warm climate and historical sites.
- And Asia: Tourism in Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand and Vietnam has also shown a recovery thanks to cultural events and beautiful beaches.
- America: The United States and Canada are welcoming international travelers again, as evidenced by the growing number of visa applications.
According to UNWTO, 2024 is also characterized by a renewed interest in sustainable tourism. For example, many travelers are interested in eco-friendly destinations and participation in sustainable initiatives. This opens up new horizons for business and investment in the tourism sector.
Economic aspects and statistics
According to the analysis, international tourism will generate around $1.8 trillion in economic value in 2024, which is significant for post-crisis recovery. Key economic facts include:
- Tourism employment growth in 20% compared to 2022.
- Increase in the number of small and medium-sized enterprises targeting tourists, which contributes to the local economy.
- Increased investment in infrastructure and services such as hotels and transit systems.
Travel companies are optimistic about the future, planning to expand their offerings to include new packages and options for eco-conscious travellers. UNWTO requires countries to increase investment in innovation and sustainable development in the field of tourism.
For more information on current tourism industry trends and forecasts, please visit our International Tourism Trends section.
