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Pinoys seen as huge int’l travel spenders in 2023

by Leila Salaverria

WHERE are you headed for vacation next year? 

International travel is so back, and Philippine jet setters will be among the biggest travel spenders in the next 12 months, according to the London-based World Travel & Tourism Council. 

The WTTC, which is made up of industry leaders, said the global consumer survey conducted by YouGov for the council found that the appetite for international travel has reached its highest point since the pandemic began.

The COVID-19 crisis that struck in early 2020 halted leisure international travel as many countries were forced to close their borders to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

But most countries have since relaxed restrictions following the availability of the COVID-19 vaccine.

Revenge travel

The WTTC said the YouGov survey polled 26,000 consumers from 25 countries, and found that 63 percent are planning a leisure trip in the next 12 months. 

Some are even planning more than one trip, the WTTC said.

“The survey reveals that the appetite to travel shows no signs of slowing, with more than a quarter (27 percent) of consumers planning three or more trips over the same period,” it said in a statement.

Australian travelers will be spending the most for their international trips over the next 12 month, it said. But Filipinos are also among those expected to shell out a lot of money for their trips. 

“Additionally, the survey shows that travellers from Australia will be the world’s biggest spenders when it comes to international travel over the next 12 months, with jet setters from Canada, Saudi Arabia, and the Philippines also expected to spend more than other travellers from around the globe,” it said.

Time to see the world again

The survey results show that people are ready to explore the world again, said WTTC President and CEO Julia Simpson. 

“This global survey shows that international travel is back. As we kick off our Global Summit in Riyadh bringing together global travel leaders and governments from around the world, travellers are getting ready to explore the world again,” Simpson said. 

The results also underscore the growing importance of sustainable travel, she said.

Nearly two-thirds or 61 percent of those surveyed said they prefer travel brands and destinations that are more sustainable, while 45 percent said they would only spend their money on brands that are socially and environmentally responsible.

The WTTC is opening its 22nd Global Summit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia today, and it will be held until December 1. 

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