According to the latest survey conducted by the European Travel Commission (ETC), there has been a notable surge of six per cent in European tourists planning summer trips compared to last year. Schengen.News reports that 75 per cent of respondents, predominantly from Spain, Italy, and Britain, expressed a desire to visit an EU country this summer.
The survey also highlighted that 36 per cent of Europeans intend to take one trip in the upcoming months, marking a six per cent increase from 2023. Additionally, 33 per cent plan for two trips, while 24 per cent are considering three or more trips.
Safety remains the primary consideration for travellers when choosing a vacation destination, cited by 16 per cent of respondents. Pleasant weather (13 per cent), shopping opportunities (11 per cent), friendly locals, and stable temperatures (both eight per cent) were also significant factors influencing travel decisions, according to the ETC report.
Regarding travel timing, 45 per cent of those surveyed aim to travel in June and July, with 39 per cent opting for August and September. Only 12 per cent plan trips for October and November.
Concerns about extreme weather and transport disruptions are prevalent among ten per cent of Europeans surveyed. Additionally, the survey found that 76 per cent of respondents have adjusted their travel habits due to climate change, with 17 per cent actively avoiding destinations with extreme temperatures. This figure rises to 32 per cent among respondents aged 55 and older, indicating heightened climate concerns among older travellers.
Overall, 16 per cent of travellers prefer destinations with stable weather, 15 per cent monitor weather forecasts, and 11 per cent choose activities that are not weather-dependent, reflecting diverse strategies for managing weather-related travel risks.