ITB: High travel satisfaction in summer despite pandemic
ITB Berlin publishes new results of the second COVID-19 study of IPK international - Germans were very satisfied with their outbound travel experiences in times of Corona - Increase in travel intentions abroad for the next 12 months - Travel security remains a central topic
For the second time this year and with the participation of ITB Berlin, IPK International conducted a special survey on international travel behavior in times of Corona. The evaluation of the German market revealed the following interesting results: In the summer months, Germans traveled abroad more than the average. Thereby the experiences gained were significantly better than expected. Also, both travel destinations and touristic offers improved their safety image in the last four months.
Germans traveled abroad more than average
Around one-third of German outbound travelers went on a trip abroad during the summer months June to August despite Corona. This puts Germans well above the European average with 22 percent as well as the global average with 19 percent. Around 60 percent of Germans traveled to a neighboring country – thus, with 63 percent the car was by far the most popular mode of transport, followed by air with 25 percent and rail with 12 percent.
High satisfaction with international travel
Asked about their experience of traveling abroad in times of Corona, 66 percent of Germans said it was "better than expected". Another 27 percent considered their trip "as expected" and only seven percent were less satisfied with their trip under Corona conditions. Positive travel experiences despite COVID-19were not only made by Germans but also by European outbound travelers in general. However, travel satisfaction was somewhat lower among Asians and Americans.
Traveling cheaper in the pandemic is not an option
In recent months, the pandemic has also led to certain changes in travel behavior among German outbound travelers, whether in terms of choice of transportation, accommodation or type of holiday. Interestingly, however, for the great majority "traveling cheaper in Corona times" is not an option. Thus, the pandemic has no negative impact on travel budgets, at least so far.
Increasing travel intentions for the next 12 months
The intention of Germans to travel abroad in the next 12 months has again increased by six percent compared to the conducted survey in June this year and is again well above the European and global average. In particular, those who stated in June that traveling abroad would not be an option, are successively returning to the circle of people willing to travel.
In addition to Germans, Swiss, Dutch, and Austrians are also showing above-average interest in traveling abroad in the next 12 months.
The tendency towards destinations within Europe continues
Just as concluded in the June survey, travel destinations within Europe are clearly preferred in pandemic times. On the popularity scale of Germans, Spain is at the top, closely followed by Italy and Austria.
Destinations within Europe have been able to either maintain or even expand their potential in the last four months, which applies especially to Italy. In contrast, interest in destinations outside Europe is still well below average and has barely recovered in recent months. One reason for this are the respective restrictions such as entry and exit regulations for countries.
Safety image for destinations and tourist offers has improved
Once again, IPK International, asked about the Corona infection risk with regard to travel destinations and touristic offers. From a German traveler’s view, the risk has improved compared to the beginning of June due to the various measures taken. The majority of the destinations were able to achieve better values in terms of their safety image and the Corona risk in relation to the offer such as transport, accommodation, types of holiday, or activities is also rated slightly better than four months ago. The improved safety image combined with positive travel experiences in recent months is also leading to an increased intention to travel in the upcoming months.
Attitude towards air travel slightly more positive
A somewhat positive trend can also be seen for Germans with regard to air travel. The reserved attitude towards air travel has decreased slightly compared to the survey conducted in June. Nevertheless, the majority is still uncertain how risky air travel is. In general, the fear of flying under Corona conditions is lower among Europeans than among Americans and especially among Asians.
High-security standards are key requirements
High-security standards resulting in an increase of personal safety are still of central importance for travelers. According to the latest survey results, measures to reduce the risk of infection have not lost any of their importance compared to four months ago. Besides maintaining minimum distances, wearing mouth and nose protection, and complying with general hygiene regulations, Germans also value mandatory COVID-19 tests upon returning from a risk area.
Looking ahead to the next 12 months
The general willingness to travel abroad in the next 12 months is particularly high among Europeans and especially among Germans. High safety standards concerning the offer and a positive safety image regarding the destinations influence the travel decision. The rising interest to travel abroad, however, is still faced with travel restrictions.
With the availability of a vaccine, a successively lifting of the restrictions is to be expected. According to the latest survey results, travel would then start to increase rapidly and on a widespread base.
About ITB Berlin and IPK International / COVID-19 Study
In addition to the years of successful cooperation between ITB Berlin and IPK International, while publishing international travel trends and forecasts on the basis of the World Travel Monitor®, ITB Berlin now releases the results of IPK's COVID-19 study for the second time this year. Based on population representative surveys, this study analyses the influence and impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on international travel behavior in Germany and in 17 other markets worldwide. In addition to the results per survey, trends, and developments over the course of the pandemic are also identified and analyzed.
Further information about this COVID-19 study can be found at www.ipkinternational.com
RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations, Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report
- 1) UN Tourism to make residents focus of Greek island of Thassos’ sector recovery
- 2) American Express report highlights Global Travel Trends during 2024
- 3) German Youth: Holidays are only worth it when they have content for social media
- 4) WTM 2023 Global Report: Tourists abandon sun loungers in favour of new experiences
25/04 02:19
Athens Airport voted as the best in marketing strategy at European awards in Denmark
25/04 02:10
President of Hellenic Republic visits La Chascona Museum in visit to Chile
24/04 21:31
Thirty-one Greek political parties to take part in European Parliament elections
24/04 21:25
Payment by bank cards now accepted on Athens Airport Express bus lines
24/04 14:12
Herculaneum papyri unveil more than location of Plato's tomb in Athens
23/04 23:52
Greece’s New Ambassador to the United States visits Queens in New York
23/04 21:49
Traffic regulations in Athens due to the Olympic Torch Relay on Thursday-Friday
23/04 20:59
President of Hellenic Republic wraps up visit to Uruguay at parliament
23/04 15:44
Greek government will pass legislation halving commission paid for POS transactions
23/04 15:03
Precise location of Plato's burial site unveiled by ancient papyrus
22/04 22:33
'Nature Positive' peport highlights new collaborative era in travel & tourism
22/04 21:25
22/04 20:37
Greek and Turkish delegations discuss Confidence Building Measures for 2024
22/04 18:29
Over 114,000 Greek Diaspora citizens register to vote by post in the European elections
22/04 13:40
19/04 01:29
Athens State Orchestra presents 'St. Matthew's Passion' by Bach on April 30th
18/04 21:49
Greek Climate Change Minister signs memorandum for Attica fire protection zones
18/04 20:32
'Easter Basket' and 'Godparents basket' to be put into effect next week in Greece
18/04 20:17
18/04 17:40
17/04 21:06
Thessaloniki Port: Performance growth for 2023 with record container throughput
17/04 20:57
Traffic regulations imposed in Athens for the 41st Peace Marathon on Sunday
17/04 20:52
17/04 18:15
Greek Foreign Minister addresses the 9th Our Ocean Conference in Athens
17/04 17:12
16/04 21:02
NHM hosts the Trial of Pericles at the Harris Theater in Chicago on April 17
16/04 20:17
Greece will invest $830 million to protect marine biodiversity
16/04 01:46
New York Greek Independence Parade honors 1821 and solemn Cyprus Anniversary
16/04 01:35
Olympic Games Paris 2024: Olympic Flame to be lit at Ancient Olympia in Greece
16/04 00:29
European Committee of Regions and UN release study on Rural Tourism
15/04 20:41
15/04 19:58
Minister: Greece is transforming into a hub for exporting quality agri-food products
15/04 18:51
Greek Environment Minister meets Chinese Deputy Minister of Natural Resources
13/04 00:13
UN Tourism and Croatia to launch Research Centre for Sustainable Tourism
12/04 00:03
2024 marks a critical year in the enduring strength of Greek-German relations
12/04 00:00
11/04 22:07
Ambassador: US committed to upgrade of Greek military and support NATO's SE flank
11/04 19:40
Hellenic Pride on display at rainy Chicago Greek Independence Day Parade
11/04 02:06
Delphi Economic Forum IX: Energy collaboration a 'key' in Greek-Bulgarian relations
11/04 01:58
UN Tourism launches investment guidelines for Albania sector
10/04 19:01
Greek FinMin: New package of economic measures in 2025 to lower taxes, raise pensions
10/04 18:25
Greek city of Nafplion hosts Mediterranean Yacht Show for ninth year running
09/04 23:57
Greek PM on Tilos: Innovative projects for a cyclical economy are of key significance
09/04 23:55
UN Tourism members promote agenda for Europe as region leads global recovery
09/04 23:46
HFS presents 1968, Rousing Docudrama about Greece’s First European Cup April 21
09/04 22:48
Stolen 7th-century BC oenochoe returned to Greece by Hanover museum, municipality
09/04 22:42
Greek civil servants confederation ADEDY to strike on May 21
09/04 21:55
Greek Migration Minister meets Senior US Coordinator for Lawful Migration
08/04 23:48
08/04 23:41
Elliniko-Argyroupoli Mayor marches in Greek Independence Philadelphia Parade
08/04 21:53
Project Voria casino complex in Maroussi moving ahead after environmental report
08/04 21:36
Minister: Up to 120 delegations to take part in 9th Our Ocean Conference in Athens
08/04 19:22
Direct flight from Shanghai to Athens offers access to key tourism market for Greece
08/04 18:31
AI conference to attract distinguished speakers to Thessaloniki on April 25-27
04/04 23:28
City of San Jose marks March 25 with 16th Annual Greek Flag Raising Event
04/04 22:16
Urban plans published for seven townships in Thessaloniki and Attica of Greece
04/04 17:24
FinMin: The new EU economic and fiscal framework is good for Greece
04/04 15:30
Greek PM meets with the chiefs of the international pharmaceutical manufacturers
04/04 00:15
Deputy Minister for Macedonia-Thrace meets US Embassy Deputy Mission Chief
03/04 20:12
Syracuse AHEPA Chapter 37 marks March 25th Greek Independence Day
03/04 18:10
Greece's Delphi Economic Forum on April 10-13 to focus on 'The Great Transition'
03/04 16:42
Minister: Industrial production has returned to the pre-crisis levels in Greece
02/04 18:06
30/03 23:21
Eleni Gatzoyiannis scholarship offered to Greek students at Boston University
29/03 16:44
3rd edition of 'This is Athens - City Festival' with 250+ events from May 1 until June 2
29/03 15:53
Athens Metro station Aghia Varvara to stay closed on Saturday and Sunday
29/03 13:55
Greek Foreign Minister for Economic Diplomacy concludes visit to Montenegro
29/03 12:00
29/03 11:51
28/03 18:41
Attica Region to channel 640 bln euros to services of vulnerable and disadvantaged groups
28/03 17:32
Greece to auction three-month T-bills on April 3, 2024 in a book entry form
28/03 15:46
Greece's Meteora Pyli Geopark added to UNESCO Global Geoparks network
28/03 14:44
IPTO announces framework agreement tender for undersea power cables in Greece
28/03 11:49
IOBE: Construction sector in Greece records robust growth and good prospects
26/03 23:51
St. Thomas Hellenic School honors 1821 and the Feast of the Annunciation in NJ
26/03 21:59
PM at Economic Club of Canada: Greece is an attractive investment destination
26/03 17:56
Greek State budget primary balance reaches a surplus of 3,378 million euros
26/03 11:45
Ancient Messene to get upgraded visitors' facilities after approval by Council
23/03 17:43
New requirements for 'Golden Visa' program to kick in on March 31
23/03 16:49
Athenians continue to head out of the Greek Capital for March 25 long weekend
23/03 16:47
Greek Parliament lights to be turned off for Earth Hour 8:30-9:30 pm
22/03 21:54
US President on Greek Independence Day: Alliance with Greece stronger than ever
22/03 19:51
High diplomacy and geopolitics at Delphi Economic Forum IX in Greece
22/03 19:32
Tax authorities enable payments with foreign bank cards in Greece
22/03 14:19
22/03 00:24
Greece ranks first on list of countries with fastest business environment progress
22/03 00:02
Hellenic Police acquires first electric VAN-type highway patrol vehicle
21/03 22:41
21/03 15:33
Unseen Museum presents "The stele of the twin babies" exhibition in Athens
20/03 22:48
Health Minister: 95% of Greek hospitals to perform afternoon surgeries
20/03 21:52
Greek Deputy Minister of Justice meets delegation from US Embassy in Athens
20/03 21:44
Greek Interior Minister to visit United States and Canada on postal vote
20/03 20:55
Philadelphia Icarians mark 85th Anniversary and organize Apokriatiko Dance
20/03 18:01
Development Minister: We continue the battle against high prices in Greece
19/03 22:28
President of the Hellenic Republic meets her Ethiopian counterpart in Athens
19/03 20:57
19/03 20:25
FinMIn: Moody’s analysis records significant progress in the Greek economy
19/03 11:15
Sector chiefs report: Good news for Greek tourism in 2024 at ITB Berlin
18/03 22:20
American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association honors Past Supreme President
16/03 13:01
Greek Deputy Foreign Μinister meets her Slovenian counterpart in Athens
President of Hellenic Republic visits La Chascona Museum in visit to Chile
Athens Airport voted as the best in marketing strategy at European awards in Denmark
Payment by bank cards now accepted on Athens Airport Express bus lines
Herculaneum papyri unveil more than location of Plato's tomb in Athens
Traffic regulations in Athens due to the Olympic Torch Relay on Thursday-Friday
Thirty-one Greek political parties to take part in European Parliament elections
Precise location of Plato's burial site unveiled by ancient papyrus
Greece’s New Ambassador to the United States visits Queens in New York
Greek government will pass legislation halving commission paid for POS transactions
President of Hellenic Republic wraps up visit to Uruguay at parliament
Athens Acropolis Museum to host photo show of historic Greek costumes
Over 114,000 Greek Diaspora citizens register to vote by post in the European elections
'Nature Positive' peport highlights new collaborative era in travel & tourism
Greek and Turkish delegations discuss Confidence Building Measures for 2024
UNESCO adds Greece's Zagorochoria to its World Heritage List
Infrastructure works on Spinalonga island to assist visitors and protect the monument
Apartments prices continued upward momentum in Cyprus during Q4 2022
PM at Axia discussion: Greece offering great investment opportunities in 2023
Greek Deputy Transport Minister flies in first test seaplane flight from Lavrio port
UNWTO promotes people's role and MSMES as sector transformation agents
Tri-city winter luncheon unites upstate New York Philoptochos chapters