
The number of international travellers has been increasing over the years, with the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) reporting a record 1.4 billion international tourist arrivals in 2018, a 6% increase from 2017. This number dropped significantly in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but international tourism is projected to recover to almost 90% of pre-pandemic levels by the end of 2023. The growth in international travel is attributed to various factors, including the rise of budget airlines and digital services, which have made travelling more accessible and affordable.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Number of international travellers | 1.4 billion in 2018 |
Percentage increase in international travellers from 2017 to 2018 | 6% |
Value of tourism to the global economy in 2018 | $1.7 trillion |
Percentage of total global GDP that tourism contributed in 2018 | 2% |
Number of international tourist arrivals in 2019 | 1.45 billion |
Number of international tourist arrivals in 2020 | 0.39 billion |
Number of international tourist arrivals between January and September 2023 | 975 million |
Percentage of pre-pandemic levels that international tourism is expected to recover by the end of 2023 | 90% |
Amount international tourism receipts could reach in 2023 | $1.4 trillion |
Amount earned by destinations in 2019 | $1.5 trillion |
What You'll Learn
International tourism statistics
Overview
International tourism is a vital contributor to the global economy, with travellers spending trillions of dollars and supporting millions of jobs worldwide. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, international tourism had been experiencing robust growth, with the number of international visits more than doubling since 2000. This growth is attributed to various factors, including the rise of budget airlines, digital services, and online reviews and bookings, which have increased accessibility and satisfaction for travellers.
Recent Trends
According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), international tourism is recovering from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2023, an estimated 975 million tourists travelled internationally between January and September, reflecting an increase of 38% compared to the same period in 2022. This recovery is expected to reach almost 90% of pre-pandemic levels by the end of 2023, with international tourism receipts projected to reach USD 1.4 trillion.
Regional Variations
While Europe continues to lead as the most popular region for overseas visits, other regions are gaining traction. North Africa, sub-Saharan Africa, and the Middle East have witnessed increasing tourism demand, reflecting a growing preference for unconventional destinations. China's rising wealth has also made Chinese citizens the world's most abundant tourists, with 143 million journeys abroad in 2017.
Economic Impact
Tourism plays a significant role in the economies of many countries, contributing a substantial percentage of their GDP. For instance, tourism accounts for about 2.5% of British GDP, and it is estimated that by 2025, Britain's tourism industry could contribute up to 10% of its GDP and employ more than one in ten people. In the United States, travellers directly spent $1.3 trillion in 2023, generating an economic footprint of $2.8 trillion and supporting over 15 million jobs.
Future Prospects
While international tourism is expected to continue its recovery, potential challenges and uncertainties remain. The imposition of mobility restrictions due to new COVID-19 variants or other unforeseen events could impact travel demand and hinder the industry's rebound. Additionally, there is a growing recognition of the negative consequences of overtourism, including environmental degradation, community disruption, and increased pressure on local resources. As a result, there may be a shift towards more sustainable and responsible tourism practices, as well as a re-evaluation of how the success of the tourism industry is measured.
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The economic impact of travel
Travel and tourism have a significant impact on the global economy. In 2018, the industry was worth about $1.7 trillion, contributing to approximately 2% of the total global GDP. The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) forecasted that the sector would have recovered up to 85% of pre-pandemic levels by the end of 2022. This recovery is expected to create 126 million new jobs, with the industry projected to grow at an average annual rate of 5.8% from 2022 to 2032.
Stimulating Economic Growth and Development
Travel and tourism play a crucial role in stimulating economic growth and development globally. It contributes significantly to the GDP of many countries, with some relying heavily on this industry. For instance, the tourist industry accounts for about 2.5% of British GDP, and it is estimated that by 2025, it could be worth as much as 10% of the country's GDP.
Employment and Job Creation
The travel industry is a major employer, providing numerous job opportunities. In 2020, the pandemic caused a 49% drop in the sector's contribution to GDP worldwide, resulting in the loss of 62 million jobs. However, the industry is resilient, and a rebound in employment is expected. In 2022, a recovery of 18 million jobs was forecasted, with the potential to exceed pre-pandemic employment levels.
International Trade and Foreign Exchange
International travel contributes significantly to foreign exchange earnings for many countries. International tourism receipts refer to the money spent by international visitors in a destination country. In 2023, these receipts were estimated to reach USD 1.4 trillion, close to the USD 1.5 trillion earned in 2019 before the pandemic.
Business Opportunities and Innovation
Travel also inspires new businesses and fosters innovation. The growth of the travel industry has led to the development of various ancillary businesses, such as online booking platforms, hospitality services, and transportation providers. Additionally, the industry's recovery post-pandemic has been aided by technological advancements, with strong bookings and increased guest spending on cruise lines.
Community Development and Infrastructure
Travel and tourism can have a positive impact on local communities, fostering vibrant community development. It can lead to the creation of new infrastructure, such as improved transportation networks, accommodation facilities, and tourist attractions. This development can benefit residents and attract further investment to the region.
Balancing the Impact: Addressing Overtourism
While the economic benefits of travel are significant, it is essential to manage this sector sustainably. Overtourism, or an excessive number of tourists, can strain local environments and communities. It can lead to environmental degradation, pollution, and social issues such as increased traffic and overcrowding. To mitigate these negative impacts, some popular destinations, like Bruges and Dubrovnik, have implemented measures to control tourist influx and improve the overall experience for visitors and locals alike.
In conclusion, travel has a substantial economic impact, contributing to global economic growth, job creation, and community development. However, managing this industry sustainably and addressing overtourism challenges are crucial to ensuring that the benefits of travel are shared widely and that local environments and communities thrive alongside the growth of this sector.
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The environmental impact of travel
The growth in popularity of air travel has made aviation one of the fastest-growing sources of greenhouse gas emissions. The International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) reported a 32% increase in CO2 emissions from the sector since 2013. If this trend continues, aviation could consume a quarter of the 1.5°C carbon budget by 2050.
The impact of tourism goes beyond carbon emissions. Tourism contributes to global carbon emissions and can encroach on local environments and cultures. Tourists are responsible for large amounts of single-use plastics that pollute beaches and threaten wildlife. Souvenir hunters have been known to break off pieces of endangered coral.
Over-tourism is a significant issue, with hotspots like Bruges and Dubrovnik struggling under the weight of tourists. This can lead to structural damage to infrastructure and overcrowding, impacting local communities and the environment.
While aviation is the most polluting form of travel, other modes of transportation also contribute to carbon emissions. According to the German Federal Environment Agency, blanket statements about the environmental impact of different modes of transport are not always accurate. For example, a train trip may have a lower environmental impact than a car trip, but it depends on various factors such as the type of train (diesel or electric) and the infrastructure and production involved.
To make travel more sustainable, individuals can opt for less polluting modes of transportation and stay longer in one place instead of taking multiple shorter trips. However, making travel climate-friendly should not only be the responsibility of individuals. Governments and cities also have a role to play in providing climate-neutral, reliable options for climate-friendly travel.
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The social impact of tourism
Tourism has been on a steep rise in the last few decades, with international tourist arrivals more than doubling since 2000 until the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2018, there were 1.4 billion international tourist arrivals, a 6% increase from 2017. This number does not represent individual travellers, as many people take multiple trips.
The growth of budget airlines has made travelling more accessible, with passengers able to fly from London to Düsseldorf for under £8. For many Londoners, this is less than the cost of a daily commute.
The social impacts of tourism can be both positive and negative, and it is important to understand these effects to ensure the sustainable management of the tourism industry.
Positive Social Impacts of Tourism
Preserving Local Culture and Heritage
Tourism can encourage the conservation and protection of local culture and heritage. This often contributes to the sustainable management of natural resources and the revival of indigenous cultures, arts, and crafts.
Strengthening Communities
Tourism can strengthen local communities by creating jobs and improving employment prospects. Events and festivals can be rejuvenated and developed in response to tourist interest, boosting the community atmosphere and vibe.
Provision of Social Services
The tourism industry requires infrastructure and facilities that can also benefit local residents. For example, tourism development may result in new roads, sewage systems, playgrounds, and bus services, improving the quality of life for locals.
Commercialisation of Culture and Art
Tourism can lead to the rise of commercial businesses, enhancing community spirit as people tend to have more disposable income. These businesses may promote local cultures and arts through museums, shows, and galleries, helping to preserve local traditions.
Revitalisation of Culture and Art
Tourist destinations may encourage the revitalisation of local cultures and arts through museum exhibitions, restaurant and shop decorations, and entertainment offerings. This can help promote traditions that may have become distant.
Negative Social Impacts of Tourism
Globalisation and Loss of Authenticity
Tourism can contribute to globalisation, leading to a sense of 'global being' where people become more alike. This can result in the loss of authenticity as local cultures, values, and traditions change to cater to tourist desires for familiar facilities and experiences.
Standardisation
Destinations may become standardised to satisfy tourists' needs for recognisable facilities in an unfamiliar environment, such as well-known fast-food restaurants and hotel chains. This can dilute the culture and traditions of the destination, making tourists feel too comfortable and less likely to return.
Tourist-Host Relationships
Fundamental differences in culture between hosts and tourists can lead to culture clashes. Economic inequality between locals and tourists can cause resentment, and tourists may fail to respect local customs and values, sometimes offending the local population unintentionally.
Increase in Crime, Gambling, and Moral Behaviour Changes
Tourism can attract criminal activity due to the presence of valuable items and large amounts of cash. It can also provide easy access to sexual exploitation and increase gambling activities. Additionally, the sexual and drinking habits of some tourists may cause conflict and arrests, particularly in destinations with stark cultural contrasts, such as Muslim countries.
While tourism brings about positive social impacts, it is important to carefully consider and address the negative consequences it can have on local communities. By understanding and managing these impacts, we can strive for sustainable tourism that benefits both visitors and host communities.
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The future of travel
A Resurgence in Travel
The travel industry is making a strong recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic, which decimated the sector. By the end of 2024, the industry is predicted to have made a full recovery, with "revenge travel" being a significant driver. International and bucket list trips delayed by the pandemic are now being taken, and domestic travel is also recovering quickly and is expected to represent 70% of travel spending by 2030.
A Growing Industry
The number of international travellers has been increasing steadily over the years, with 1.4 billion international tourist arrivals in 2018, a 6% increase from 2017. This growth is partly attributed to the rise of budget airlines and digital services, such as online reviews and bookings, which have made travel more accessible and affordable.
Shifting Destinations
While Europe has traditionally been the most popular overseas destination, other regions are gaining popularity. In 2018, trips to North Africa rose by 10%, and tourism to sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East is also on the rise as demand for unconventional destinations grows.
Technological Advancements
Sustainability Concerns
With the travel industry's contribution to global carbon emissions, there is a growing focus on sustainability. Net-zero flights and hotels are becoming a reality, and there is a push for the sector to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. However, with travel activity expected to soar by 85% from 2016 to 2030, there is a challenge to balance the benefits of travel with its environmental impact.
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Frequently asked questions
An estimated 975 million tourists travelled internationally between January and September 2023, according to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).
The number of international travellers has been increasing over time. In 2018, there were 1.4 billion international tourist arrivals, up from 1.38 billion in 2018 and 1.45 billion in 2019. The COVID-19 pandemic caused a sharp drop in 2020, with only 0.39 billion international travellers. However, tourism is recovering, with numbers reaching 87% of pre-pandemic levels in 2023.
Europe leads the way in overseas visits, receiving 713 million visitors in 2018. Within Europe, France is the most visited country, followed by Spain, Italy, and the UK. Globally, the US and China also receive a high number of international travellers.
Travel and tourism are important drivers of economic growth and job creation. In the US alone, travellers spent $1.3 trillion in 2023, supporting over 15 million jobs. Tourism also contributes significantly to the GDP of many countries, with international tourism worth about $1.7 trillion in 2018, or about 2% of total global GDP.