International travel is making a strong comeback! According to the latest report from the United Nations tourism agency, around 1.1 billion tourists traveled internationally in the first nine months of 2024. That’s a whopping 98% of the number before the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2019.
The UN Tourism’s Tourism Barometer report, released on Wednesday, predicts a “full recovery” by the end of the year. This surge in travel is driven by strong post-pandemic demand in Europe, robust performance from major global markets, and the ongoing recovery of destinations in the Asia-Pacific region.
Regions Leading the Charge
Some regions have even surpassed their 2019 levels. The Middle East saw a remarkable 29% increase, Africa experienced a 6% rise, and Europe edged past with a 1% growth. In the Americas, international tourist arrivals have reached 97% of pre-pandemic numbers, showing a significant rebound.
The Asia-Pacific region is catching up fast. By September 2024, arrivals reached 85% of 2019 levels, a big jump from 2023, when it was just 66%. This indicates a strong resurgence in travel to and from Asian countries.
Tourism Revenue Soars
Not only are more people traveling, but they’re also spending more. In the first three quarters of 2024, tourism revenues increased significantly. Out of 43 countries with available data, 35 exceeded their pre-pandemic earnings, with many reporting double-digit growth compared to 2019.
Spain, the world’s second-largest tourist destination, enjoyed a 36% rise in tourism revenue. The United Kingdom saw a 43% growth in earnings, while France and Italy reported increases of 27% and 26% respectively.
A Boost for Global Economies
UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili expressed optimism about the industry’s recovery. “The strong growth seen in tourism receipts is excellent news for economies around the world,” he said. “The fact that visitor spending is growing even stronger than arrivals has a direct impact on millions of jobs and small businesses, and contributes decisively to the balance of payments and tax revenues of many economies.”
The resurgence of international tourism is not just about numbers; it’s about revitalizing communities, supporting local businesses, and fostering cultural exchange. As the world continues to recover, travelers are once again exploring new places and creating unforgettable experiences.
Reference(s):
International tourism set to return to pre-pandemic levels: UN agency
cgtn.com
