2018 has unveiled that Europe remains a hot spot for travellers from across the globe.
The many beautiful countries, different cultures and historic cities have continued to attract tourists resulting in a 6% increase in international visitors. Despite ongoing trade tensions, uncertainty surrounding Brexit and the economic slowdown in the Eurozone and China, Europe remains the most visited region in the world.
32 out of 33 destinations in Europe have found an increase in international tourist arrivals in 2018 compared to the previous year. The research reported in Breaking Travel News reveals that Turkey has seen an influx in tourists due to a depreciating lira against the pound. The country has seen a record year of international tourists as travellers are seizing the opportunity of the fantastic exchange rates. Tourists have been attracted to inexpensive holidays in the sun and the perfect chance for cheap holidays for single travellers.
The Executive Director of the European Travel Commission, Eduardo Santander comments “Despite adverse risks such as tensions in financial markets, uncertainty surrounding the UK’s withdrawal from the EU and the worrisome forward-looking indicators, the European tourism industry has yet again proved resilient in 2018, accounting for over half of worldwide tourist arrivals.”
Tourists from the US are also on the increase due to contributing factors including the strong dollar against the euro and sterling. Likewise, Europe is attracting visitors from China aided by the improved air connectivity and visa procedures. The region is predicted to see continuing growth of up to 3% in 2019 as travellers are embarking on cheaper holidays to Europe.
Whilst countries continue to thrive from international tourists, there is an apparent decline of outbound travellers from the UK. The factors surrounding a ‘No Deal’ Brexit are predicted to result in up to eight million fewer trips from the UK. According to Santander, these challenges present new opportunities for long-term development in Europe.
