European travel has continued to thrive despite consumer confidence falling, latest data from the European Travel Commission (ETC) show.
The ETC has forecast that European tourist traffic should finish this year at around 75% of its pre-pandemic 2019 levels.
That is despite consumer confidence across Europe falling and – in some regions – hitting near 10-year lows.
The ETC warned that the ongoing war in Ukraine may slow the recovery in Eastern Europe. It also said rising inflation across Europe could hamper consumer spending. But, it said, that will likely delay European tourism’s recovery rather than ruin it.
It also said passengers may spend more on short-haul travel in the foreseeable future.
Luís Araújo, president of ETC, said: “European tourism is proving exceptionally resilient to inflation. While the cost-of-living crisis is causing many to change their approach to travel, it is not dampening their desire to explore Europe completely. Short-haul travel will be a lifeline for the sector over the next months, as more travellers opt for shorter and closer trips. As we continue to navigate the challenges brought about by global uncertainty, it is crucial to rebuild a sector that keeps sustainability front of mind.”
