Global tourism is showing strong signs of recovery, with international travel in 2023 reaching 88% of pre-pandemic levels, according to the UN World Tourism Organization’s latest World Tourism Barometer. Around 1.3 billion people traveled internationally this year, indicating a robust resurgence of the industry.
Asia is at the forefront of this rebound, with expectations of a stronger recovery in its tourism markets. Experts project that global tourism will fully return to pre-pandemic levels by the end of 2024.
In particular, China has witnessed a significant uptick in travel activities. During the Spring Festival, there was a notable rise in the trend of “visiting relatives + traveling,” reflecting both cultural traditions and pent-up demand for domestic exploration. The China Tourism Academy forecasts over 6 billion domestic trips and 6 trillion yuan in domestic tourism revenue in 2024, underscoring the country’s vital role in the global tourism landscape.
To delve deeper into these trends, CGTN’s Michael Wang spoke with Zoritsa Urosevic, Executive Director of the UN World Tourism Organization, and Jane Sun, CEO of Trip.com Group. They discussed the evolving dynamics shaping the tourism industry and shared insights on how destinations are adapting to changing traveler preferences.
Urosevic highlighted the resilience of the tourism sector and emphasized the importance of sustainable practices as the industry moves forward. “The recovery provides an opportunity to rethink tourism and its interaction with communities and the environment,” she said.
Jane Sun noted that technological innovation is playing a crucial role in facilitating travel. “Digital platforms are making it easier for people to plan and book trips, which is accelerating the recovery,” she explained. She also pointed out that travelers are increasingly seeking personalized and flexible experiences.
As countries continue to lift restrictions and confidence in international travel grows, the tourism industry is poised for a full recovery. Asia’s leading role in this rebound not only reflects its economic vitality but also its cultural appeal to global travelers.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
