The greatest increase in the intention to go on vacation is noted among the Spanish
According to the 15th report of the Ipsos-Europ Assistance Barometer, European tourists this summer will reach a generalized rise of 6% in their intention to go on vacation. The total number of Spaniards who will travel this summer is estimated at 60%, ie 18% more than last year.
A clear example that the crisis is now being overcome is the fact that the holiday travel grows, after several years of stagnation and setbacks. According to the CEO of Europ Assistance, Juan Carlos Guzmán, “the crisis is falling behind as the intention to travel finally increases and does so with great intensity in Spain.”
Comparing the average intention of Europeans expected to enjoy these summer vacations with the Spanish average, the difference is quite noticeable: 6% higher the average last year in relation to the Europeans, compared with an increase of 18% in the intention of the Spanish to travel this summer. Overall, 60% of Europeans plan to travel and enjoy themselves during the hot days this season. This study is based on 3,510 telephone interviews conducted in seven different countries: France, Germany, UK, Belgium, Italy, Austria and Spain, between February 11 and March 23. This research is conducted by Ipsos and sponsored by Europ Assistance.
As the economy improves and increases the intention to leave to enjoy the holidays, the average travel budget also increases, with € 180 more than last year, always referring to the countries of the eurozone. At the same time, the Spanish maintain the amount of previous years of around € 1,719 per trip. Those with the highest budget are the Germans, with an expenditure ceiling of € 2,457.
Regarding the holiday destination, Europe itself remains a favorite place for the Europeans, in fact. Almost 80% of respondents say they prefer Spain, France and Italy. The Spanish are particularly fond of France, even though 65% travel without leaving the Iberian Peninsula. Belgians and Austrians are the tourists who have the greatest intention to travel abroad.
The factors that travelers take into consideration when deciding to leave the country, according to the study by Europ Assistance, are as follows: primarily, the risk of a terrorist attack at 42%. Then, the weather, health risks and the budget, are distributed equally, with 39-38% each …
The preferred destinations are the beach, at 62%, with the intention of resting, obviously. 34% aim to discover new destinations and activities. 20% choose the mountain, a trend that gains more and more followers every day. Another noteworthy aspect is that most of the respondents state that they plan to divide their holiday into two periods, dedicating their days off to very different activities.
As for travel arrangements, according to the study, 60% of travelers plan their reservations online. At the same time, 71% of Europeans prefer to stay in hotels and apartments. In second place, they choose second homes or homes of relatives and friends.
Finally, there is a new element incorporated this summer. It is the home exchange and shared vehicles. Up to 15% of respondents are interested in car sharing option. One in ten would prefer the exchange of accommodation during their vacation. Guzman also notes that “74% of the Spanish travel with travel assistance coverage. This percentage includes the purchase of an insurance policy as coverage for travel, including other insurance, such as the home or car, in addition to payment cards.”
