Figures published on Tuesday (9 May) reported that 235 million tourists have travelled internationally over the first three months of this year, more than double of 2022.

Overall, international arrivals have reached 80% of pre-pandemic levels – in line with UNWTO expectations. 

The Middle East has seen the strongest performance, as it was the only region to exceed pre-pandemic passenger numbers. It was followed by Europe, Africa and the Americas, which are respectively at 90%, 88% and 85% of 2019 levels. 

“The start of the year has shown again tourism’s unique ability to bounce back,” Pololikashvili said. “In many places, we are close to or even above pre-pandemic levels of arrivals.”

International tourism receipts also went back and hit the $1 trillion mark last year, with visitor spending growing by 50% in real terms compared to the previous year and reaching 64% of pre-Covid levels. 

Nevertheless, challenges such as the soaring costs of living and the war in Ukraine can still pose a threat to the sector’s recovery. 

According to the UNWTO panel of experts, the uncertain economic situation remains the biggest factor weighing on people’s minds when booking a holiday as most travellers seek value for money by staying closer to home. 

“We must remain alert to challenges ranging from geopolitical insecurity, staffing shortages, and the potential impact of the cost-of-living crisis on tourism, and we must ensure tourism’s return delivers on its responsibilities as a solution to the climate emergency and as a driver of inclusive development,” the secretary-general added.