Europeans, including Germans, are changing their travel plans, choosing proven destinations and once again paying more attention to expenses.
— Rapidly rising energy and fuel prices and missing air transport capacity cause an increase in costs for businesses and, consequently, also in holiday prices – explains Sven Liebert from the Federal Association of the German Tourism Economy (BTW) to Bild.
This includes, among others: airline tickets, transport by your own car, but also meals in restaurants or hotels. “Even if our entrepreneurs don't pass on all price increases to customers, the war has a direct impact on our vacations,” says Liebert.
The expert calls on the German government to “take all active steps to achieve peace.” — Every day it costs us economic growth and vacationers money. And in the worst case scenario – the existence of entrepreneurs or the ability to afford holidays – adds Liebert. According to him, this should be urgently prevented.
A holiday closer to home
A trend is emerging here. As Liebert explains, the summer of longing for long journeys turns into “nearcation” — holidays nearby. Road trips instead of trips to Turkey, the Baltic Sea instead of the Red Sea. Is the war an opportunity for domestic tourism? There is a trend in Germany to book “more domestic trips,” notes Liebert.
The article continues below the video
At the same time, the guests' uncertainty is palpable. — For all those who do not want to give up their holidays, Germany, for example, offers easy accessibility and a solid price-quality ratio, says the tourism expert.
— For us, as the tourism industry, it would now be important for the German government to significantly ease the burden on our companies. Otherwise, despite this opportunity for domestic tourism, we will not have a single euro more in our money due to rising prices, adds Liebert.
Holidays are in doubt
Where to go this summer?
— Especially in these rather uncertain times, it's worth booking a trip organized as a “worry-free package,” advises Liebert. Thanks to this, one exists secured and you can enjoy your vacation. An alternative is a holiday in the country. – Perhaps now is a chance to discover something new – explains the expert.
According to a survey conducted by travel platform Holidu, holiday home owners in Germany are expecting a good season. 92 percent of them count on stable or growing occupancy.
— Supply remains high, but so does demand. Anyone interested in a specific region or holiday date should book as early as possible, says Heike Muller, a travel expert from a website offering holiday homes, to Bild. – We are observing a slight increase in last minute bookings and bookings for trips around Germany – he adds.
I’m Ashley Davis as an editor, I’m committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and accuracy in every piece we publish. My work is driven by curiosity, a passion for truth, and a belief that journalism plays a crucial role in shaping public discourse. I strive to tell stories that not only inform but also inspire action and conversation.
