In this summer, only 54% of Europeans still remain travel habit. According to survey of Europ Assistance announced on 30 May, this is the lowest level since 2000 and financial crisis is the main reason for this situation.
Europe Assistance conducted a conference survey among 4,048 Europeans from France, German, UK, Italy, Spain, Belgium, Austria about departure plan from June to September this year. However, up to 46% of them claim not to travel due to financial difficulties. Thus, this level drops 4% over 2012 and 12% against 2011, based on criteria of Europ Assistance.
Financial crisis had a serious effect on budget of European families. Even French people, travel-lovers are supposed to give up holiday habits: said Mr. Martin Vial, General Director of Europ Assistance.
This figures showed that the number of travelers sharply decrease in comparison with the late 2000s. There are up 6 out of 10 at that time plan to leave for a summer holiday.
In Southern Europe countries, where seriously affected by economic crisis, people are not interested in travel, either. There are only 42% Spaniards plan to go away as opposed to 51% in 2012 and 65% in 2011; Therefore, the level of travelers in this country drops 23 points in 2 years.
This level is even lower in Italy where only 53% of citizens plan to go a way this year compared to 78% in 2011. Same applies for the Belgian and French with equivalent levels are 59% and 62%. However, the level remains stable to German and Austrian residents (52% and 57%) and tends to slightly rise in UK (56%).
Also because of financial difficulties, many people choose short travels or travel at near destinations. In addition, weather also influences the choice of types of holiday. The top priority of Belgian and French is weather, of Spanish is budget and German and Austrian is afraid of terrorists.
Regarding tourism destinations, 64% of holidaymakers like beach-travels, and up 81% choose to travel in other European countries.