WTM Global Travel Report: Revenge travel is now a current trend

Monday, November 6, 2023

The WTM Global Travel Report, revealed at WTM London 2023, highlights a mix of opportunities and challenges for the travel industry. Despite rising travel costs, the ongoing “revenge travel” trend, where consumers make up for lost travel experiences during the pandemic, has kept demand high. Higher prices are a concern but have not yet deterred travellers.

The report identifies increased costs and staffing issues as significant industry challenges. However, there is an optimistic outlook, with consumers prioritizing travel spending, especially in the context of emerging markets and societal shifts.

Increasing business costs and staffing challenges top the list of concerns, with accommodation and flight costs also significant. Global tourism is rebounding strongly, and Tourism Economics predicts over 1.25 billion outbound trips by the end of 2023.

The report highlights the use of technology to address staffing shortages and the resurgence of cultural and sporting events, creating opportunities for destinations and organizations. “Bleisure” and “workcations” are identified as key trends, and personalization remains a focus in the industry.

While economic challenges and global events can affect consumer confidence, the travel industry is resilient and filled with exciting opportunities. As Juliette Losardo, Exhibition Director at World Travel Market London, states, “the travel and tourism industry faces an exciting future” with pent-up demand and a willingness to explore new experiences and destinations.

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