Tourism and Travel Shifts in 2023

According to new data, more than 900 million tourists travelled internationally in 2022 – double the number recorded in 2021 though still 63% of pre-pandemic levels. Every global region recorded notable increases in international tourist numbers. UNWTO anticipates a strong year – 2023, for the sector even in the face of diverse challenges including the economic situation and continued geopolitical uncertainty.

A new report by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and the Trip.com Group, together with Deloitte, has revealed a heightened appetite for sustainable tourism amongst consumers, with 69% of travellers actively seeking sustainable travel options.

The A world in motion: shifting consumer travel trends in 2022 and beyond report, shows that sustainability is a key element of the travel agenda, with travellers eager to reduce their carbon footprint and support sustainable tourism.

According to a survey included in the report, three-quarters of travellers are considering travelling more sustainably in the future and nearly 60% have chosen more sustainable travel options in the last couple of years.

Julia Simpson, WTTC president and CEO, says: “The demand for travel is now stronger than ever and our report shows that this year we will see a significant bounce back. 2023 is set to be a very strong year for travel and tourism. Sustainability is top of travellers’ agenda, and consumers highlight the value they put on protecting nature and travelling responsibly.”

In 2023, sustainable tourism practices are likely to continue to gain popularity as more people become aware of the need to protect the planet and local communities while still enjoying travel experiences. This may include efforts to reduce carbon emissions, use renewable energy sources, support local businesses and communities, and minimize waste and pollution. 2023 is looking even better in terms of travellers spend. Despite concerns about inflation and the cost-of-living crisis around the world, nearly a third of travellers intend to spend more on international travel this year than in 2022.

1. Eco-friendly accommodations: An increasing number of hotels and resorts are offering eco-friendly options, such as using solar power, recycling, and reducing water and energy consumption.
2. Sustainable transportation: Electric and hybrid vehicles, as well as public transportation and bike-sharing programs, are becoming more popular as a way to reduce carbon emissions from transportation.
3. Community-based tourism: Supporting local communities by staying in locally-owned accommodations, eating at locally-owned restaurants, and participating in activities organized by local operators.
4. Reusable and eco-friendly products: As people become more environmentally aware, products that are reusable, such as water bottles, travel bags, and containers for food and toiletries are becoming more popular.
5. Climate-responsive travel: As climate change causes changes in weather patterns and natural landscapes, travelers are becoming more interested in visiting destinations that are less affected by climate change.
6. Health and wellness: Travelers are becoming more interested in activities such as yoga and meditation, hiking, and experiencing nature as a way to promote physical and mental well-being.
7. Responsible travel: Traveling in a way that minimizes negative impact and maximizes positive effects on the environment, cultures, and local communities.

Even though the tourism and travel industry is still faced with challenges like financial constraints; making sustainable changes can be expensive and not many businesses would like to prioritize that or the lack of government regulations and policies to enforce sustainable tourism practices, we believe through public-private partnerships, CBTOs, NGOs we can create responsible policies that can be implemented by tour operators, hotels, and airlines to reduce the negative impact of tourism on the environment and local communities.

“The future of tourism is not about travel, it’s about experiences. And the most valuable experiences are those that create a positive impact on the planet and local communities.” – Jost Krippendorf, Sustainable Tourism Expert.