Tourism, Organisations & Operators,

(L-R) Mr Sun Bo, Chief Marketing Officer, Trip.com Group; Ms Jane Sun, Chief Executive Officer, Trip.com Group; Ms Melissa Ow, Chief Executive, STB; Ms Juliana Kua, Assistant Chief Executive, STB
Trip.com Group, a leading global travel service provider, and the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the Group’s Global Partner Summit – held at Resorts World Convention Centre – to renew their global partnership for three years.Under the MOU, both parties will expand their collaboration and embark on joint campaigns to boost inbound travel to Singapore and promote more in-depth and lesser-known tours and experiences in Singapore. In addition, Trip.com Group will also leverage its expertise and resources to promote Singapore’s MICE offerings and explore digital innovations that enhance visitors’ experience in Singapore.
Both parties will launch marketing campaigns in mainland China and other key markets including Hong Kong, Malaysia, Thailand and Korea, and also promote the various offerings, experiences and activities in Singapore, including new products relating to wellness and sustainability. Trip.com Group will also customise new itineraries for specific groups of travellers, including families, with the objective of enhancing their experience in Singapore.
The MOU was signed by Ms Jane Sun, Chief Executive Officer, Trip.com Group, and Ms Melissa Ow, Chief Executive, STB.
Ms Melissa Ow, Chief Executive, Singapore Tourism Board, said: “The STB and Trip.com Group have forged a longstanding partnership since 2012. Moving forward, we endeavour to deepen our collaboration to elevate Singapore’s status as a leading destination for leisure and MICE travellers. Additionally, we will expand the scope of our partnership to include exchanges on digital solutions and innovation, and jointly develop more in-depth travel products to diversify our destination offerings.”
Said Ms Jane Sun, Chief Executive Officer, Trip.com Group: “Singapore has always been one of the most popular destinations for Chinese and other international tourists, and we have been collaborating with the STB to promote tourism and showcase the beauty of this beautiful country. Hosting our annual flagship Global Partner Summit – with its over 2,000 delegates – in Singapore earlier this week reflects our commitment to the local tourism sector and we will utilise our strengths, including content marketing, AI and innovation, to further strengthen Singapore’s position as a destination of choice.ADVERTISEMENTSince the resumption of China-outbound tourism in February, accompanied by the resumption of flight capacity, the number of Chinese tourists visiting Singapore has continuously increased, with particularly strong growth observed during the summer vacation period. Over the recent Golden Week holiday in China, Singapore was in the top five most popular international destinations for mainland Chinese travellers.

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Jane Sun, CEO of Trip.com Group, delivers keynote speech to partners at the Global Partner Summit
Leading travel service provider Trip.com Group held its Global Partner Summit in Singapore, inviting guests from across the travel industry, including accommodation, airline and destination marketing partners. More than 2,000 partners and media attended the event held at the Resorts World Singapore – Convention Centre.
James Liang, Co-Founder and Chairman of Trip.com Group, explained why travel is unique from a multifaceted perspective. “Psychologically, it fulfils a high level of need which is not easily saturated. In economic terms, it is a long-term, high-growth industry. At the social level, it promotes human understanding, enhances communication and brings peace and inclusiveness. Philosophically, tourism helps promote human innovation, thus pursuing the long-term prosperity of human civilisation.

“At Trip.com Group, we have made it our mission to provide the best travel experience possible. We will explore AI innovation, travel content marketing, and sustainable practices to enhance every aspect of the user experience while preserving our planet and community.”
As the tourism industry gradually recovers and grows, Trip.com Group has taken a significant step towards its “Local Focus, Global Vision” strategy by holding its Global Partner Conference abroad for the first time. This move signifies the ambitious outlook for the inbound and outbound tourism industry and reaffirms the company’s commitment to enhancing global partner growth.ADVERTISEMENTSpeaking at the conference, Jane Sun, CEO of Trip.com Group, recapped the vigorous recovery of its businesses and reflected on the potential for further growth. “Guided by our strategy, multi-dimensional innovations in content marketing and AI-driven products, we have strengthened the Group’s business, accelerating our recovery and bringing forward new growth drivers.
“Our approach continues to pay dividends, with the number of Trip.com bookings doubling this year compared to 2019 and the number of flight reservations for our EU partners increasing sevenfold.”
Notably, various businesses have achieved restorative growth, with domestic hotel reservation volumes increasing by an average of 60% among Trip.com Group partner hotels. The growth extended to global scenic attraction tickets and reservations on Trip.com. The domestic group tours sector also experienced an increase in Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) with a 53.6% surge compared to the same period in 2019, highlighting the overall resurgence of the industry.
Trip.com Group’s innovative marketing strategies have led to a threefold increase in new customers and a 263% spike in product sales in the first three quarters of the year. They have been a catalyst for remarkable growth, such as a 54 times increase in new customers for air tickets. Diverse product offerings, including multi-scenic attractions tickets, as well as concert tickets with hotel packages, generated an astounding 188-fold increase in hotel reservations in recent months.
Dedicated to supporting and enhancing the communities it serves, Trip.com Group has taken significant steps to incorporate sustainable travel products into its various business lines, including flights, car rental, and corporate travel. Over 16 million people have chosen these sustainable travel options, favouring the company’s low-carbon products.
As part of its ongoing commitment to promote a sustainable travel industry, Trip.com Group launched its Low-Carbon Hotel standard initiative, which aims to encourage eco-friendly practices, and facilitate a shift towards a more sustainable travel ecosystem by collaborating with hotel partners. Trip.com Group has engaged with nearly 1,000 hotel partners in this transformative project.
With its global reach, diversified supply chain, and strengthened technological capabilities, Trip.com Group is distinctively positioned to bolster and promote regional and local destinations to eager travellers worldwide.
Bo Sun, CMO of Trip.com Group, said, “Trip.com Group continues to deepen strategic cooperation with our partners in Singapore, leveraging our position as a leading travel service provider to unlock new opportunities and expanding partner reach to our international customers.
“With our global supply chain, advanced and innovative technology, and extensive reach, we are uniquely positioned to showcase regional and local destinations to travellers worldwide, and help bring global travellers to Singapore.”
Data shows that travel-related products to Singapore have become increasingly popular in recent months. Resort World Singapore Group experienced an 85% QoQ increase in UV search for Q2; in Q3, there was another 33% increase. During the recent Golden Week holiday, Singapore hotel bookings increased by 370% compared to 2022.
Bo Sun expressed his gratitude for the unwavering support seen over the years, saying, “This is our first global partner summit held overseas, and we would like to express our sincere gratitude to the Singapore Tourism Board and other stakeholders for their support and continued cooperation.
“Singapore is one of our top-ranked destinations among our customers and the International Headquarters of Trip.com. Going forward, we aim to enhance our partnerships, and attract more travellers for a unique experience in this beautiful country, whether for business, leisure, or bleisure trips. At the same time, we also look forward to welcoming Singaporean travellers to various destinations.”

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October 2023: For the tenth time, the Algarve has been voted as ‘Europe’s Leading Beach Destination’ at the 2023 World Travel Awards. It is a world first as no other destination has won this prestigious award, which honours travel and tourism, so many times.
Home to over 100 beaches, the region in Portugal has some of Europe’s most beautiful coastline, stretching over 200km. And there are 88 blue flag beaches in the Algarve, one of the largest concentration of Blue Flags in Europe.
Speaking about winning the award, President of the Algarve Tourism Bureau André Gomes said: “We are honoured and delighted to have won this award for the tenth time. It’s a real privilege for the region to have been recognised as Europe’s Leading Beach Destination, and to be making history this way.
“The Algarve has beaches to suit all tastes. From long, sandy beaches protected by golden cliffs to small bays nestled between rocks, and the calm waters of the east coast beaches like Manta Rota and Altura, which are perfect for families. Meanwhile, the west coast beaches of Amado, Bordeira and Monte Clerigo have some of the most scenic and uncrowded in the country and are a go-to destination for surfers. There also famous beach resort towns such as Albufeira, Lagos and Vilamoura, all with fine beaches.
“And complementing the beaches, we have a rich culture and tradition, with a long history of fishing, agriculture, crafts and gastronomy that has been shaped and influenced by its long Atlantic coastline, Moorish ancestry and sunny climate.”ADVERTISEMENTThis year, the World Travel Awards commemorated its 30th anniversary of rewarding travel excellence, marking the landmark celebration at Batumi, Georgia.

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SeaWorld is thrilled to announce it will open one-of-a-kind marine life themed rides and attractions in every SeaWorld park in Spring 2024.
Guests to the award-winning parks in Orlando, San Antonio, and San Diego can look forward to epic journeys and experiences for the whole family that will leave them breathless, drenched, and utterly mesmerized.  Attractions include “Penguin Trek” at SeaWorld Orlando, an all-new family friendly coaster for guests 42-77 inches in height that will transport riders on an unforgettable expedition through the Antarctic wilderness aboard unique snowmobile styled ride cars traversing an indoor/outdoor track that ends at the penguin habitat where riders can experience the enchanting world of these remarkable animals.  The first of its kind at SeaWorld parks, the all-new “Jewels of the Sea: The Jellyfish Experience” at SeaWorld San Diego offers an immersive and interactive view into the mysterious underwater world of glowing and graceful jellyfish, along with touch and behind the scenes experiences.  At SeaWorld San Antonio, guests will celebrate the first splash of the much-anticipated opening of Catapult Falls, the world’s first launched flume coaster and the only vertical lift in North America.  The new attractions continue the SeaWorld legacy of blending marine life inspired adventure, discovery, and family-friendly thrills.  The best way to experience the new attractions is with a SeaWorld 2024 Annual Pass on sale now.  2024 pass members will be the first to experience the new attractions before they open to the public.
“2024 looks to be another fun year with exciting new rides in our parks and our first jellyfish exhibit,” said Marc Swanson, CEO of SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment.  “We know our fans will delight in the all-new lineup of marine life inspired experiences that gives everyone even more new ways to really enjoy our parks.  And when they do, they can feel good knowing that a portion of proceeds goes toward our rescue and conservation work.”
“Penguin Trek” at SeaWorld Orlando is a Unique Family Friendly Coaster Experience to Traverse through the Antarctic Wilderness Aboard a Snowmobile Styled Ride Car on an Indoor/Outdoor Track that Concludes in the Penguin Habitat
Designed as THE ultimate family launch coaster experience, “Penguin Trek” features a unique snowmobile styled ride car where once aboard, riders will embark on an exhilarating journey through the breathtaking vastness of Antarctica as they join a penguin research mission unlike any other.  Featuring two exhilarating launches and a maze of twists and turns, this unforgettable coaster moves at speeds of up to 43 mph across a 3,020-foot track that traverses both indoors and outside. Yet, what sets this experience apart as truly extraordinary is its unparalleled finale: as the coaster comes to a halt, guests find themselves not in a simulated penguin colony, but in the very heart of SeaWorld Orlando’s own penguin habitat.ADVERTISEMENTAn experience for the whole family, the ride accommodates rider heights from 42-inches to 77-inches.  A unique and immersive blend of coaster thrills and authentic animal interaction offers the whole family the spirit of adventure and exploration, while further connecting SeaWorld’s mission and commitment to animal care, education, and research.
Coming in Spring 2024, “Penguin Trek” is the eagerly awaited eighth coaster to join SeaWorld Orlando’s ever-expanding ride portfolio.

“Jewels of the Sea: The Jellyfish Experience” at SeaWorld San Diego Offers an Immersive Experience with the Beauty and Wonder of Graceful Jellies, the First at SeaWorld Parks
SeaWorld San Diego is thrilled to announce the upcoming debut of “Jewels of the Sea: The Jellyfish Experience” in 2024, adding another exciting and educational dimension to the park’s offerings. The first of its kind for SeaWorld parks, the Jellyfish Experience will be the newest immersive and interactive aquarium at the park.
Nestled within the Ocean’s Explorer area, guests to the new exhibit will be greeted by a kaleidoscope of colors and shapes in three unique galleries as if diving into the heart of the ocean. Glowing with an ethereal light, Moon Jellyfish, Pacific Sea Nettles, Upside-Down Jellyfish, and Comb Jellies will gracefully glide through the water, showcasing their hypnotic movements that seem almost unworldly.  The experience features an 18-foot-tall cylinder, among the tallest jelly cylinders in the country, a 10-foot-tall acrylic living arch of jellyfish for guests to walk through for views from multiple angles, plus a vivid display from walls to ceiling that show virtual oceanic moments, ranging from calm waters to dynamic, energetic crescendos. Guests can also upgrade their experience with a behind-the-scenes tour led by an aquarist and learn more about jellyfish propagation and have hands-on experience to touch the ocean’s translucent treasures. 
As part of the park’s commitment to education, the Jellyfish Experience also offers a fun way to learn more from experts about what makes a jellyfish, the beauty and diversity of the translucent species, their behaviors and patterns, and how they have adapted to some of the most extreme environments on Earth. Plus, guests will come away with a better understanding of what they can do to protect jellyfish and our oceans.
Much Anticipated Opening for “Catapult Falls” at SeaWorld San Antonio, the World’s First Launched Flume Coaster
At SeaWorld San Antonio, guests will celebrate the first splash of the anticipated arrival of “Catapult Falls,” the world’s first launched flume coaster and the only vertical lift in North America.  First announced in 2022, it will feature the world’s steepest flume drop, North America’s only vertical lift flume coaster, and the tallest flume drop in Texas.
This family friendly ride will catapult through the launch at speeds of 30 feet per second, allowing riders to feel the rush of a coaster while experiencing the rocking and swaying of riding on a track of water. Guests can stay tuned for a first look at “Catapult Falls” ride vehicles.
2024 Annual Pass Members will be the First to Experience these Exciting Attractions
The best way to experience these new attractions is with a SeaWorld Annual Pass on sale now.  All Pass Members will receive a preview to the “Jellyfish Experience” and be the first to ride “Penguin Trek” and “Catapult Falls”.  Annual Pass prices by park. Visit SeaWorld.com to find more information on all new and current SeaWorld attractions and to purchase an Annual Pass. Follow along on Facebook, Instagram, SeaWorld Cares.

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Five historic Danish Viking age Ring Fortresses have just been added to the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage List. The fortresses were built between year 958 and 987 under the reign of the Danish Viking King Harald Bluetooth and are characterised by their remarkable symmetry.
The fortresses are some of the most prominent archaeological remains from the Viking Age in Denmark, while they at the time of construction testified to the ambition of uniting the Danish Kingdom and to protect it against external enemies.
“The Viking age holds a unique place in world history, and the Ring Fortresses are a physical manifestation from the time when Denmark was united as one kingdom and Scandinavia became a part of the Christian movement in Europe. Therefore, it is amazing – and with a good reason – that the Danish Ring Fortresses are now recognised by UNESCO as world heritage at the same level as, for instance, the Pyramids and the Great Wall of China. This decision will support the future research and communication about the Ring Fortresses – and hopefully, it will also contribute to attracting more visitors,” says Rane Willerslev, Museum Director of The National Museum of Denmark.
The five fortresses are spread across Denmark:
AggersborgADVERTISEMENTAggersborg, located near Løgstør in Northern Jutland, is the largest of the Viking Age Ring Fortresses and was built around the 980s. The internal diameter of the fortress is 240 metre and was surrounded by a 9-metre-wide and approximately 4-metre-high circular rampart. The fortress has four gate openings, each pointing to the corners of the world, while timber streets are connecting the gates. Furthermore, a tower was built in the centre and surrounded by a total of 48 houses.
Fyrkat
The fortress of Fyrkat near Hobro in Northern Jutland was built around the 980s. Still today, the rampart offers an impressive view. North of the fortress, a cemetery indicates that Fyrkat was inhabited by both men, women and children – furthermore, it indicates that this fortress might have been built to maintain royal power. Outside the fortress, you can today find a reconstruction of one of the largest houses. It is 28.5 metres long and built of oak.
Nonnebakken
Nonnebakken, which today is hidden beneath the modern city of Odense in Funen, was built around the year 980.  Due to its history and significant size, it is one of the largest and most important ancient monuments in the area. Nonnebakken (directly translated: ‘The Nun Hill’) was named after a nunnery located on the mound in the 12th century.
Borgring
The fortress Borgring (in English: ‘Fortress Ring’) was strategically located in front of Køge Bay in Zealand. From here, all traffic in and around the East Zealand area could be controlled and monitored ideally from here. With an inner diameter of 121.50 metre and ramparts about 10.5 metre wide, Borgring’s dimensions are very similar to the ones of the Fyrkat fortress. Borgring remains an archaeological mystery, and each summer, archaeologists visit the area to search for the secrets of the fortress. 
Trelleborg
The fortress of Trelleborg near Slagelse in West Zealand is located in the beautiful landscape of Tude Ådal. Through dendrochronological methods by dating timber from its moats, the fortress has been dated to around the year 980. Today, the remains of the great fortress can still be seen clearly, and visitors can explore the lives of the Vikings by visiting the reconstructed village of Slagløse.

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Estonia is the fifth most sustainable destination in the world according to the latest annual study from Euromonitor International. Estonia, certified as a Green Destination, has moved up five places in this years’ Sustainable Travel Index 2023, thanks to its approach to sustainable living and nature conservation.
Over half of the country is forested and with some of the cleanest air in the world, sustainability is part of the Estonian ethos, some of the best examples of why Estonia has been rated so highly in the world rankings are:
Tallinn is the European Green Capital 2023 – the beautiful city, with its UNESCO medieval old town and new urban redevelopments outside the city walls, can be explored on foot, by e-scooter or wider areas by eco-friendly trams and buses. A wide range of eco-conscious accommodations are available such as the Hektor Container Hotel and 40 properties have Green Key certification. Including Nordic Hotels and Oru.  The versatile range of restaurants offer high quality cuisine, using local ingredients and seasonal menus – most notable is Michelin Green star, zero-waste Fotografiska. There are also public drinking water taps across the city.
An excellent array of sustainably focused shopping is available. Including fashion brand stores Reet Aus and Stella Soomlais; local markets such as the Katariina Guild and the Master’s Courtyard, where craftsmen and designers make products on site; the Baltic Station Market houses local produce, vintage and antique shops and Central Market which offers food and handicrafts.
For a day trip out of Tallinn, take an hours’ drive to the crystal-clear blue lagoon of the submerged limestone Rummu Quarry. Its former prison, now underwater, has been converted into a nature reserve with watersports available on the lake and the area is great for hikes around the mountain, providing stunning panoramic views.ADVERTISEMENTGreen Pärnu – Discover the pretty coastal town of Pärnu, on foot or by bike, with its white sandy beach, promenade, and coastal meadown nature reserve. The town has been recognised by Green Destinations* as one of the top 100 sustainable destinations in the world. Green in the most literal sense – one-fifth is covered in forest groves, tree-lined avenues, parks, and home gardens. The sea, rivers, beaches, promenades, parks, and forest groves make Pärnu a place with unparalleled natural diversity.
Sustainable Saaremaa – The island of Saaremaa, together with the other western islands, belongs to the UNESCO “Man and the Biosphere” programme. Home to the Vilsandi National Park, 20 protected nature and landscape reserves, and a few dozen nature and hiking trails. 36 flowering orchid species grow on Saaremaa, making the island popular among flower enthusiasts in spring. It is also a paradise for birdwatchers in autumn and spring as birds stop by during their annual migrations. The forest and the sea play a vital role in the diet of the islanders, restaurants often name the farm where ingredients are sourced. Fish caught in the morning is on the menu by lunchtime.
The circular economy is important on Saaremaa, the Lahhentagge Distillery gives new life to city Christmas trees by making them into a tonic. Reed is a traditional local material and is used for roofs in many houses in older villages and innovative local stores are now using it as an alternative material to plastic for products.

Tartu is European Capital of Culture in 2024 – Tartu, the cultural and learning centre of Estonia, is the European Capital of Culture 2024. The theme “Arts of Survival” will highlight the city’s environmentally friendly culture focusing on strong communities and essential skills for living and survival in the coming years. One of the remarkable projects in the Tartu 2024 programme is Curated Biodiversity which promotes the maintenance and restoration of biodiversity in Tartu’s parks and green spaces with activities for different generations.
The city is compact and great for walking and cycling, offering an easy-to-use Smart Bike Share with over 750 bicycles or use the public bio-gas buses to explore. The Smart Bike Share and bio-gas buses can be combined as both ticketing systems use the same card.
Each district of the city has diverse architecture, as part of the EU Smart City project, apartments built in the 1960s were turned into energy-efficient and environmentally friendly buildings and given a visually attractive appearance in-order to create a unique art-based urban space in the centre of Tartu, making the living environment happier and livelier.
For more info on Estonia www.visitestonia.com

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Jet2.com has expanded its programme of ski flights to its biggest ski destination – Geneva – on the back of strong demand from skiers and snowboarders. 
The leading leisure airline has added more flights to Geneva from Leeds Bradford and Manchester Airports this coming winter, as snow sports fans rush to book their places on the slopes. 
The announcement means that Jet2.com will operate up to 34 weekly ski flights to Geneva from nine UK airports in Winter 23/24. The expansion from Leeds Bradford and Manchester Airports means customers can now choose from up to eight weekly flights from each airport, providing even more choice with mid-week and long weekend options available. 
Geneva offers ski enthusiasts some of the very best ski resorts across the Swiss and French Alps. It is regarded as one of the ultimate picks for skiers and snowboarders, with world-class resorts and ski areas such as Tignes, Flaine, Verbier and Zermatt all easily accessible from Geneva. In addition, the Three Valleys offers 600km of piste including Meribel and Val Thorens all for one ski pass. 
As a result of today’s announcement, Jet2.com has 190,000 seats on sale between the UK and Geneva this winter, with flights on sale from the following airports:  ADVERTISEMENTLeeds Bradford – up to eight weekly services thanks to the addition of more Saturday services.  Manchester – up to eight weekly services thanks to the addition of more Sunday services.  Birmingham – up to five weekly services. London Stansted – up to seven weekly services. Edinburgh – up to two weekly services. Bristol, East Midlands, Glasgow and Newcastle International – weekly Saturday services. As well as having more choice when it comes to booking a spot on the slopes, skiers and snowboarders travelling to eight ski destinations this coming winter – including Geneva – with Jet2.com can also benefit from 50% off return ski carriage for a limited time only. 
The offer applies if customers make a new booking between now and 25th September 2023 and travel between 1st November 2023 and 30th April 2024* to any of Jet2.com’s eight ski destinations – Chambery, Geneva, Grenoble, Salzburg, Innsbruck, Lyon, Turin and Barcelona (Andorra).
Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com said: “We are looking forward to an incredibly busy ski season, with customers clearly looking to get their place on the slopes booked in. With a wealth of world-class ski resorts on offer, Geneva is a mecca for snow sports fans and we are delighted to be expanding our programme even further this coming winter in response to the demand we are seeing. Thanks to our award-winning customer service and fantastic ski carriage offer for Winter 22/23 ski flight bookings, there’s no better time to be booking your place on the slopes with us than right now!”

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The World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) 2023 Economic Impact Research (EIR) today reveals the UK Travel & Tourism sector is forecast to exceed the 2019 peak this year.The sector is set to contribute £252.4BN to the UK economy this year, surpassing the 2019 pre-pandemic high of £248.5BN.
WTTC is also forecasting that the sector will create almost 380,000 jobs this year, recovering almost all of the jobs lost due to the COVID 19 pandemic to reach more than 4MN, with around one in nine workers in the UK, in the Travel & Tourism sector.
International visitor spend to the UK is forecast to reach £26.18BN, just 6% behind the 2019 peak of £38.6BN.
A look back on last year
Last year, the sector’s GDP contribution grew by 65% to reach more than £237BN, representing 9.5% of the economy, edging closer to the 2019 high of 9.9% of the economy.ADVERTISEMENTLast year the sector also created 1.1MN more jobs from the previous year to reach 3.6MN jobs nationally – one in 10 jobs across the UK.
The sector has now recovered 1.5MN of the 1.7MN jobs lost during the pandemic.
Last year also saw the return of international travellers heading to the UK with spending from overseas visitors growing over 300% from 2021 to reach almost £30BN.
Domestic visitor spend fully recovered in 2022 to match the pre-pandemic high of £165BN, showing that whilst the UK has taken longer to attract high spending overseas visitors, the staycation is here to stay.
Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “Travel & Tourism creates one in every ten jobs in the UK. It contributes over £250bn a year to the UK economy.
“Whilst our forecasts show the sector will reach a quarter of a trillion pounds this year, and predicts international visitor spend will recover by early next year, the UK Government should be aiming higher.
“The recovery and long-term growth of the sector is at risk with the self-axing of VAT-free shopping for international tourists. We will continue to see high-value tourists choosing France and Italy over the UK and taking with them economic value and jobs.”
What does the next decade look like?
The global tourism body is forecasting that the sector will grow its GDP contribution to almost £315BN by 2033, nearly 11% of the UK economy and will employ over 5MN people across the country, with one in seven Brits working in the sector.
Europe
In 2022, the European Travel & Tourism sector contributed €1.9TN to the regional economy, just 7% below the 2019 peak. WTTC forecasts the region’s GDP contribution from the sector will reach more than €2TN in 2023 – within touching distance of the 2019 highpoint.
The sector employed almost 35MN people across the region in 2022, an increase of 2.9MN from the previous year but still 3.2MN behind pre-pandemic levels. WTTC forecasts the sector will fully recover the jobs lost during the pandemic by the end of 2024.
For more information, please visit WTTC Research Hub

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