New research expects ‘strong summer’ for intra-European travel

Despite the uncertainty caused by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and the ongoing threat of COVID-19, the desire across Europe for intra-European travel is undoubtedly strong, according to the latest research by the European Travel Commission (ETC).

Indeed, it claims that three in four Europeans intend to take a trip in the next six months, with Mediterranean destinations having the highest appeal.

It notes that the findings of the latest research indicate that an increasing share of Europeans (77%) are eager to travel between April and September 2022.

Over half (56%) of them plan to visit another European country, while 31% choose domestic travel. Across all analysed markets, respondents from Italy, Spain, Poland, the UK, and Germany demonstrate the strongest optimism about taking a trip (around 80%).

Travel intentions increase with age, rising from 69% among Gen Z (18-24 years old) to 83% among baby boomers (over 54 years old).

The survey results, says the ETC, confirm that Europeans’ travel plans follow a seasonal pattern with sun and beach holidays (22%) being the preferred option for the coming months.

The interest in city breaks (15%) and vacations by the water or coast (15%) also remains steady. In line with these holiday preferences, the popularity of Mediterranean destinations grows: Spain is the most favoured destination among Europeans travelling abroad between April-September 2022, followed by Italy, France, Greece and Portugal.

Commenting on the report, ETC president Luís Araújo, said: “Our report demonstrates that European confidence in travelling is growing now that COVID-19 has largely become a fact of life.

“New uncertainties on the horizon, namely the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the rising cost of living, are presenting challenges for the travel sector. However, ETC is pleased to see that in spite of these uncertainties, appetite for travel is still on the rise and the European tourism sector remains resilient.”

The full summary report can be downloaded from: https://etc-corporate.org/reports/monitoring-sentiment-for-domestic-and-intra-european-travel-wave-11/