For 2024, travelers are choosing destinations that virtually blanket the globe, with Europe continuing to grow in appeal, travel advisors said.
“In the event that the [Israeli] conflict stabilizes, the travel industry is expected to continue its overall strength,” said Tammy Levent, CEO of Clearwater, Fla.-based Elite Travel. “We anticipate continued growth in travel to European countries, as has been the trend in recent years.”
Levent noted that “Europe offers a diverse range of experiences, from historical sites to vibrant cities, stunning natural landscapes, and rich cultural heritage,” which attracts a wide range of travelers.
Furthermore, it is becoming more popular with those travelers looking to expand their scope of destinations. “Many individuals from the current generation have already experienced Caribbean vacations with their families while growing up,” Levent said. “Now, they are eager to explore other parts of the world, including Europe, making it a desirable destination.
Richard Turen, managing director of Naperville, Ill.-based Churchill & Turen, said that “any accurate survey will always show Italy in the first four or five spots. Travelers just can’t get enough despite the heat and the crowds.”
France, he said, is also proving to be a popular vacation choice, along with Croatia, Iceland, Japan and South Korea.”
For its part, the Caribbean is not faring as well with Turen’s customers. “Our upscale clientele can go many weeks without a single Caribbean request,” he said. “The Caribbean is, for better or worse, being typecast.”
“So far my bookings are strong for next year,” said Claire Schoeder, an independent contractor with Atlanta-based Elevations Travel. “Western Europe and cruises are in demand, as are safaris in Africa.”
For Jonathon Alder, CEO of Jonathan’s Travels in Winter Park, Fla., Europe –and Paris in particular, which is set to host the 2024 Olympics – is also proving popular with his clients, along with such destinations as French Polynesia, Turkey, Kenya, New Zealand, Antarctica and South Georgia Island, said Jonathon Alder, CEO of Jonathan’s Travels in Winter Park, Fla.
In addition to New Zealand, Levent said hot 2024 destinations for Elite Travel include Indonesia, including places like Bali; Thailand’s Bangkok and Phuket; as well as Australia and New Zealand.
Levent added a cautionary note: “It’s essential to remain vigilant and adaptable, as global events can impact the travel landscape.”
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
Topics From This Article to Explore
