American Express Travel: These are the trends that will dominate this year in tourism internationally

of Vicky Kourlibini

The climate in tourism is very different this year and, after two years of pandemic, the desire for holidays is great, while those who plan to travel this season are willing to put their hand deeper in their pocket compared to the pre-Covid years.

These are just some of the goal setting shareware that you can use in the American Express Travel: 2022 Global Travel Trends Report.

The report is based on data from the world’s largest tourism markets and in particular from the United States, Australia, Canada, Mexico, Japan, India and the United Kingdom.

The main findings of the report

Synopsis American Express Travel: 2022 Global Travel Trends Report includes:

-People are now ready to travel: 74% of respondents are positive about booking a trip this year, even if they need to cancel or modify it later. This is a percentage increase of 56% compared to last year.

-Travel expenses are expected to exceed pre-pandemic levels: 86% of consumers expect to spend more or the same amount of money on travel in 2022 compared to before the pandemic.

-Tourists want to travel more often: 62% of respondents plan to make 2-4 trips this year and 76% of respondents agree that he plans to travel more with his family in 2022 than in 2021.

-Tourists are looking for brands that prioritize the support of local communities: 81% of respondents intend to visit destinations that emphasize local culture and want the money they spend to return to local economies.

-Dream destinations become a reality: 55% of respondents want to book a “life” vacation. This trend is especially true for Millennials (67%) and Gen Z (65%).

“The pandemic made us all, including travelers, appreciate what really matters,” said Audrey Hendley, president of American Express Travel.

“Global Travel Trends show that tourists want to make up for lost time and pay attention to who they travel with, the places they visit, the brands they support and how they spend their money.”

The study also outlines the changing landscape of family travel: 76% of parents agree that they plan to travel more with their family in 2022 than last year.

70% agree that in 2022 they plan to make their first trip abroad with their children while 79% of respondents agree that they are looking forward to traveling with their family this year.

What do tourism entrepreneurs in Greece see?

The mood for travel is reflected in the Greek market, which, although not yet ready to provide quantified data on increases in bookings – currently holding a wait-and-see attitude due to the Russian-Ukrainian war – seems to be accepting the positive climate that prevails this year.

With the season officially starting next month, the first information wants the reservations to move to a higher level compared to last year, at about 20% nationwide, but the growth rate is not yet as expected.

It is estimated that local actors will be able to give the framework of this year’s goals in expected arrivals and revenues, towards Easter.