New Horizons for Tourism: How Traveler Preferences Are Changing in the Face of Global Change
In recent years, global changes such as the COVID-19 pandemic, economic fluctuations, and environmental issues have seriously affected the travel industry. Today, travelers are becoming more conscious and their preferences are changing to follow new trends.
Trends in travel preferences
This time period is marked by the following key trends:
- Environmental awareness: Travellers are increasingly choosing eco-friendly destinations and sustainable travel methods.
- Local and authentic experiences: Users are eager to learn about the culture of the country, preferring trips to small towns and villages.
- Digitalization: Online platforms have improved access to travel information, making trip planning more efficient.
The Impact of the Pandemic on the Choice of Destinations
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a sea change in travel destinations. According to a study of more than 70% travelers, they are now choosing countries with low rates of the virus. Some countries, such as Spain and Greece, have even started offering special travel “passports” that allow them to travel freely.
Most tourists prefer:
- National parks and natural areas.
- Sanitary conditions and safety in hotels and public transport.
- Interactive virtual tours before real trips.
New formats of recreation
Tourism is adapting to new conditions, and multifaceted recreation formats are at the forefront:
- Short term trips: Rooted in everyday life, the week or weekend has become a popular time to unwind.
- Work and rest: The concept of “workation” (work + vacation) allows you to combine work and travel.
In addition, experienced tourists began to look for alternatives to traditional resorts. An example is alternative recreation on water bodies, such as Yaroslavl reservoir, where unique tourist projects were created.
The importance of safety and comfort
Safety remains a top priority when choosing a destination. According to a report by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), 64% tourists rate the level of safety as the main criterion for choosing a tour. Travelers prefer resorts that offer:
- Clean beaches and renewable water supplies.
- Strict control of sanitary and hygiene in restaurants and hotels.
According to the study, destinations with high healthcare standards are also popular, such as: Egypt, where COVID-19 test results are required before returning home.
Conclusion
The changing preferences of travelers in the context of global changes demonstrate not only the adaptation of the tourism industry, but also a significant shift in focus on health, environmental factors and safety. These trends are shaping a new concept of tourism, making it more human and sustainable.