Photo source: Visit Greece
Although international travelers are showing increased caution about planning trips to Europe between September and December this year, Greece remains among the leading destinations on their bucket lists, according to data released by the European Travel Commission (ETC).
More specifically, according to the ETC’s Long-Haul Travel Barometer (LHTB) 3/2024, which examines travel intention in seven overseas markets in the autumn-winter period, holidaymakers from Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, the US and Japan, rank Greece fourth among the Top 5 European destinations to visit.
Conducted in cooperation with Eurail BV, the report reveals that 58 percent of respondents plan to travel long-haul in the last four months of the year, with 40 percent anticipating a visit to Europe, which represents a 4 percent decline compared to the same period last year.
Most popular European destinations for fall travel
Data provided by the ETC.
The most popular European destinations for fall travel by international travelers are France, cited by 37 percent of the market share; Italy, cited by 29 percent respondents; Spain, cited by 21 percent; Greece and Czech Republic, both cited by 12 percent; and Norway, cited by 10 percent.
Intentions for long-haul travel in Autumn 2024
The study shows a significant rise in overseas travel interest from China, with 83 percent of respondents keen to visit Europe—a 9 percent increase from last year, aided by the reintroduction of China-Europe flights.
In Brazil, 48 percent of respondents plan to visit Europe, similar to last year, primarily driven by younger, affluent travelers, though high costs remain a barrier.
The total sample excludes the intention in the St Korean market, which was not part of the 2023 autumn research wave. Source: ETC
Canadian and Australian travelers show steady interest, with 39 percent and 33 percent respectively planning European trips, while only 27 percent of South Koreans and 23 percent of US respondents share the same intention. Notably, US travel interest has dropped from 41 percent last year, largely due to high costs, interest in other regions, and limited vacation time.
Safety and budget constraints influence travel plans
Safety remains the top factor in choosing a European destination, cited by 52 percent of respondents, with notable increases among travelers from Australia, Japan, China, Canada, and the U.S.
Affordability is also a primary barrier to travel to Europe, highlighted by nearly half of respondents (44 percent), a figure that is rising across all key markets, except for Australia, which has seen a minor decrease.
Source: ETC
While inflation for tourism products is easing, the effects of recent years persist. Most respondents (66 percent) plan to spend between 100 and 200 euros per day, similar to last autumn. However, budgets are tightening in some markets, with a 30 percent drop in Chinese travelers expecting to spend over 200 euros per day, and more Australians (6 percent) and Canadians (8 percent) planning to spend less than 100 euros daily.
What pulls people to visit Europe?
Leisure remains the top reason for travel to Europe, with 78 percent citing it as their main motive. Culture and history are key attractions for 44 percent of respondents, benefiting Europe’s historic sites. Interest in Europe’s culture and history has notably surged in China (+13 percent), Japan (+11 percent), and the US (+14 percent) since last year. Gastronomy experiences (39 percent) and city life (33 percent) are also strong draws for visitors.
Cultural exploration, culinary experiences, and vibrant city life are key drivers for both first-time and repeat visitors. Source: ETC
For the first time, the study shows a strong interest in engaging with locals, with 40 percent of travelers planning occasional interactions, 36 percent seeking deeper cultural experiences, and 15 percent aiming to build meaningful relationships.
Established in 1948, the European Travel Commission (ETC) represents the national tourism organisations of Europe.
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Source link : https://news.gtp.gr/2024/10/09/etc-greece-among-preferred-european-destinations-despite-decline-in-autumn-2024-travel-demand/
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Publish date : 2024-10-09 14:48:47
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