Cities need to cater to rising numbers rather than trying to curb them, say analysts and a new World Travel & Tourism Council report has highlighted some solutions.
The report found if 11 major European cities capped visitor numbers, it could cost USD245 billion in lost GDP and almost three million jobs over three years. In 2024, it’s believed travel and tourism contributed USD11 trillion to the global economy. Governments around the world are said to have accrued more than USD3.3 trillion of this, money which WTTC says should be re-invested in vital infrastructure. One of the key moves cities can make to handle rising tourist numbers is investing in infrastructure, it says, alongside creating empowered taskforces and destination strategies, addressing issues early and ensuring residents have a say and understand the benefits of tourism. WTTC ceo Julia Simpson, says travel and tourism brings huge benefits, but admits growth needs to be managed carefully. “This isn’t about stopping tourism, it’s about making it work for everyone.”
See the report HERE.
