The number of international tourist arrivals increased by 182% in the first quarter of 2022 compared to the same period in 2021 – from 41 million to 117 million, according to data from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).
“In January-March 2022, destinations around the world received 117 million foreign tourists. This is 182% more than in the same period a year earlier – 41 million. Europe and America are leading in the recovery of tourism,” the organization said in a statement.
Thus, Europe received 280% more tourists in the first quarter than a year ago. In America, international arrivals are up 117% in three months. But in both regions, arrivals lag behind pre-pandemic 2019 levels by 43% and 46%, respectively.
The best indicators of the recovery of tourism in Europe are in the countries of the southern Mediterranean. Here, the number of arrivals was 75% of the figure for 2019.
“The Middle East and Africa also saw a notable increase in the number of tourists – by 132% and 96%, but this is below the level of 2019 by 59% and 61%, respectively. In the Asia-Pacific region, growth was 64%, but the number of arrivals remains 93% lower than in 2019, as many countries still maintain restrictions, ”the UNWTO notes.
Overall, international tourism in the first quarter was 61% of 2019 levels, and the organization predicts recovery prospects are good as more countries ease travel requirements.
“In early June, 45 destinations lifted travel restrictions. In Asia, which has been the most closed region, more countries are easing restrictions,” the organization emphasizes.