Despite the uncertainty and economic challenges of 2016, travel and tourism as an industry continues to grow strong, with the World Travel & Tourism Council forecasting a 3.1 percent growth this year.
According to luxury travel network, Virtuoso, whilst it’s true that global events can influence travel and tourism, luxury travellers especially aren’t letting these events stop them from travelling the world.
This statement is reflected by recent figures showing that the luxury travel network has grown 5.5 percent year over year, despite threats of terrorism, the U.S. political situation, Zika and the fallout from Brexit.
Virtuoso have also witnessed an impressive 47 percent growth rate in the Asia-Pacific region, whilst 82 percent of the luxury travel network’s agencies are predicting sales to increase in the coming year – and all this despite the presence of online travel agencies and booking websites.
“Travel advisors have never been better poised for success because consumers continue to search for – and even demand – human interaction.”
Matthew D. Upchurch, Chairman and CEO, Virtuoso.
Source: www.hotelnewsresource.com
New research from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) indicates that the growth of travel and tourism is outpacing the growth of the global economy overall, and accounts for more than U.S.$7.2 trillion, or 9.8 percent of global GDP.
Indeed, one in 11 people worldwide works in travel and tourism, which equals 284 million jobs.
Worldwide, Virtuoso comprises more than 390 travel agencies with over 11,400 travel advisors in 41 countries. It also counts as global preferred partners 1,700 hotels, cruise lines, airlines, tour operators and others. More than (U.S.) $15.5 billion in annual travel sales makes Virtuoso a powerhouse in the luxury travel industry.