Europeans Eager to Travel This Summer Despite Costs

Santiago de Compostela, Spain. Photo source: Visit Europe

Europeans are eager to travel this summer despite the geopolitical tensions and increasing costs, found the latest report released by the European Travel Commission (ETC).

According to the “Monitoring Sentiment for Intra-European Travel” report, 75 percent of Europeans plan to travel between May and October marking a 3 percent rise compared to last year with 37 percent of those polled planning a single trip and 57 percent two or more.

Once again, most travelers (43 percent) are picking mainly sunny destinations in Southern Europe, including Greece (6 percent), Italy and Spain (8 percent), France (7 percent), and Germany (5 percent).

Timewise, Europeans are planning trips for May-June (34 percent) and July-August (44 percent) with 17 percent eyeing September and October.

Meanwhile, interest in leisure travel is on the rise up by 5 percent compared to last year.

Other key takeaways of the ETC report include:

– over 55 travelers (81 percent) are especially eager to travel in the next couple of months

– younger vacationers – 18-24 – are more likely to book in advance with 52 percent having already arranged trips

– top considerations for travelers this year are safety, weather, and good value for money

– 55 percent plant to fly to vacation spots up by 5 percent over last year; 28 percent plan to drive, and 13 percent are choosing trains or buses

– 36 percent of European travelers said their trips would be lasting four to six nights, 26 percent seven to nine nights, and 21 percent more than 10 nights

– sun & beach trips lead the way, followed by city breaks with a focus mainly on scenic beauty and local cuisine

– 42 percent planning to spend up to 1,000 euros per person.

Commenting on the findings, ETC President Miguel Sanz highlighted opportunities for lesser-known destinations as travelers seek authentic experiences.

“It is very positive to see Europeans maintaining their desire to travel despite the ongoing geopolitical and economic circumstances,” said Sanz.