Cities are seeing particularly strong growth for international tourism – reversing a shift to more rural destinations during and following the pandemic, says a new report released at WTM London (World Travel Market).
The WTM Global Travel Report says the world’s 50 largest city destinations will this year see international visits exceed 2019 volumes by almost one-quarter. This compares to growth of 5% for all country destinations.
In fact, the world’s 100 largest city destinations are seeing similar overperformance and the trend is expected to continue through to the end of the decade.
A recovery in business travel, a renewed interest in cultural tourism and events, and improved connectivity are all credited with contributing to the recent boom.
By 2023 the 50 largest city destinations are predicted to see additional arrivals of more than 40% compared to this year, while globally, country destinations are expected to record an increase of one-third.
Dubai and Bangkok are particularly highlighted by the trends report. Both are expected to see growth of 50% or more in leisure arrivals in the next five years.
New York and Los Angeles are meanwhile predicted to see around 30% more arrivals and London, Istanbul and Tokyo 20% or more. The trend is similar for several smaller cities including Tunis and Sydney (both +50%) and Lima and Cape Town (both +40%).
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