How Will the Tourism Industry Change in 2023?

The tourism and hospitality industry is ever-changing and ever-evolving. These changes were extremely enhanced by the COVID-19 pandemic and specifically, the tourism industry took one of the largest plunges and impacted the economy, the livelihood of people, public services and various other opportunities. Direct tourism alone put over 100 million people at risk as reported by the UNWTO and a loss of 910 billion dollars was almost lost from the expenditure of international visitors, according to the same study.?

However, with that being said, can the tourism industry increase its losses or at least even out in 2023? Moreover, what are some of the biggest changes that the tourism industry faces and how will it change in 2023?

First and foremost, 2023 is looking like one of the most fruitful times for the tourism industry. After two-plus years of recovery and adaptable changes to travel, we are looking at a more normal future now in 2023, especially with fewer restrictions.?

That being said, the tourism industry is expected to see a 30 percent increase in 2023 according to World Travel and Tourism Council Economic Impact Global Trends in 2022.?

One of the biggest markets that is looking to close the gap is the Asia Pacific region, but why?

First and foremost, customers are looking for something new. There is no doubt that the last couple of years has created new opportunities and even new behaviors for consumers.?

What was once popular in the past, especially with the travel of European countries has decreased and an increase/peak of interest into the more unknown regions has risen and that could be part of the trends for 2023.?

Secondly, the accessibility to technology and automation is going to be a huge change in 2023. Consumers are faster, and smarter and want agency when making their choices. Long gone are the days of working directly with a travel agent, but actually referring to influencers, whether micro or macro, gaining key insight through educational information and having thoughtful platforms that are easily accessible with one-click shops.?

Consumers are looking for transparency in travel. While they want a face behind the name and someone to encourage their travel needs, they are also not afraid to dig deep and do their own research, which is where getting insight and exclusive information on travel websites can benefit online traveling platforms greatly. Ditch the offers and half-offs and look at quality.?

Some of the trends that are expected to rise in 2023 are also the following:

1. Cultural Experiences

Of course, the rise of the Asia Pacific region could be due to the fact that cultural experiences are simply non-negotiable in these countries. Without much intervention of western cultures and traditions, there is a novelty and purity of learning about someone’s cultural heritage and traditions. These experiences create an emotional bond between the traveler and the local with the participation in emotional intelligence high and key moments being imprinted.?

2. Wellness Getaways

Adventure is still a go for many travelers, but the importance of recharging and rejuvenation is even more important and will continue in 2023. Wellness getaways are aimed at building a specific intention where the consumer is able to take away a certain skill set, new behavior or simply get back to their health. Many of the popular yoga retreats are now going to be replaced or even enhanced in focusing more on niche audiences who are looking for very specific wellness outcomes as part of their getaways. Mental wellness, physical wellness and even eco-luxury getaways are going to take center stage in 2023.??

2. Bleisure

Have your cake and eat it too. We actually focused on a few articles on this topic. Many people are going to continue traveling for business in 2023 and especially with fewer restrictions and the lack of connection for the last couple of years, extending business trips into leisure will become part of an important aspect of team building as well as ensuring that your employees have a chance to sit back and enjoy their time after a business trip.?

4. Family Reunions and Nostalgia Trips

WE ARE FAMILY. Family reunions have taken on a whole new meaning especially post-pandemic and will considerably increase for 2023 as people have nostalgia for bringing back memories with their loved ones or even visiting a destination of their past.?

5. Going Off-Season

Many consumers won’t be afraid of going off-season, especially with the added perk of fewer crowds and those off-season prices. That being said, this can be a time when travel agencies can be very creative in offering different perks through travel itineraries by doing different activities, offering value for the time they will be in the country and offering some more remote, off-season destinations.?

So if you’re a company looking to the future, then ensure some of these goals are in mind for 2023. Where will the tourism industry go next, we may not know, but we can get ahead of some of these trends that are hopefully…here to stay.?