WTTC: Global Consumer Survey Reveals International Travel is Back

Photo source: WTTC

A new global consumer survey has revealed that the appetite for international travel is now at its highest point since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) said on Sunday.

According to the survey of more than 26,000 consumers from 25 countries, conducted by YouGov for WTTC, 63 percent are planning a leisure trip in the next 12 months.

The survey reveals that the appetite to travel shows no signs of slowing, with more than a quarter (27 percent) of consumers planning three or more trips over the same period.

Photo source: WTTC

WTTC President & CEO Julia Simpson highlights that travellers are getting ready to explore the world again.

“This global survey shows that international travel is back,” Simpson said.

Australians to spend more on travel than any other nation

Additionally, the survey shows that travellers from Australia will be the world’s biggest spenders when it comes to international travel over the next 12 months, with jet setters from Canada, Saudi Arabia, and the Philippines also expected to spend more than other travellers from around the globe.

“The results of this global survey also show the growing importance of sustainable travel amongst consumers,” Simpson highlighted.

Almost two thirds of those surveyed (61 percent) stated they prefer travel brands and destinations that are more sustainable, whilst almost half (45 percent) said they will only spend their hard-earned money with brands that are socially and environmentally responsible.

This data is revealed on the eve of the global tourism body’s highly anticipated 22nd Global Summit, which is set to welcome delegates from around the world in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

According to the YouGov ‘global tracker’, the attractiveness and positive impression of Saudi Arabia as a destination continues to grow, with the highest scores across countries in the Gulf region, along with Indonesia, India, Malaysia, and Thailand.