In a remarkable show of resilience, global travellers have shattered records, defying the lingering shadows of the pandemic. The year 2023 witnessed an astonishing surge in travel volume, with more than 80% of the world’s seasoned travellers embarking on as many or more journeys as ever before, according to the latest Global Rescue Fall Traveler Sentiment and Safety Survey.

This resurgence in travel is a positive sign for wanderlust enthusiasts and a welcome boost for the travel industry. A staggering 35% of survey respondents revealed that they ventured more in 2023 than before the pandemic, while 48% stated their travel remained consistent with pre-pandemic levels. A mere 17% reported travelling less.

Dan Richards, CEO of The Global Rescue Companies, the world’s premier provider of medical, security, evacuation, and travel risk management services, and a distinguished member of the U.S. Travel and Tourism Advisory Board at the U.S. Department of Commerce, highlighted the growing trend in adventure and luxury travel. He noted, “Adventure travel, luxury travel, and other activity-focused segments continue to see strong growth. Many destinations are reaching full capacity, some even have waiting lists.”

Despite rising travel costs, airline disruptions, and travel staff shortages, most survey respondents (66%) held firm and did not cancel any of their planned trips for 2023. Over a third (38%) did not postpone their travel plans. A mere fraction, less than 5%, reported cancelling at least one trip due to escalating travel expenses, and only 9% had to delay their travel.

With experts warning of potential overcrowding at popular destinations and limited availability of flights and accommodations, 58% of survey participants experienced no issues with sold-out bookings. However, a significant portion, nearly 30%, encountered obstacles at least once when attempting to secure reservations. A mere 7% faced disappointment multiple times.

Among those who faced booking challenges, the majority (67%) found flights to be the primary bottleneck, with 41% citing lodging availability as the main issue and only 16% reporting difficulties securing restaurant reservations.

In a promising twist, industry experts believe the bullwhip effect may play a crucial role in reversing rising travel costs and increasing the availability of flights and lodging. Dan Richards explained, “Where previously ordered but undelivered supply like airplanes, buses, and trained labor finally arrive in a market with tepid demand, falling prices will result.”

As the world adapts to the evolving landscape of travel, these record-breaking journeys in 2023 serve as a testament to the indomitable spirit of travellers who refuse to be deterred by challenges, paving the way for a brighter future for the global travel industry.

Written by: Bridget Gomez

=====================================