How is the world of tourism changing?
Added: 24-04-2025 15:48
This article examines key transformations in global tourism over the past two decades – from the digital revolution, through the rise of the sharing economy, to the impact of the pandemic and the growing importance of sustainability. We will look at changes in travel behaviour, new business models and the technologies that are shaping the future of the industry.
1. Digital transformation and mobility.
Tourism has become fully digitalized – over 70% of bookings are now made using smartphones, which highlights the dominance of mobile devices in travel management. Access to fast internet and mobile applications allows tourists to compare offers, make payments and manage their trip in real time, greatly simplifying the whole process. Bibliometric analyses show that technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data, VR and AR are rapidly penetrating the sector, offering virtual tours and personalized recommendations.
2. The sharing economy and new forms of accommodation.
The emergence of platforms offering tourism services has revolutionized the accommodation market, allowing private owners to rent apartments and rooms and influencing local real estate markets, supporting small businesses and diversifying the tourist offer beyond the main urban centers. This model has contributed to the development of the so-called "dispersed tourism", directing traffic to less popular regions and relieving the most congested ones.
3. Democracy of travel – low-cost airlines.
Since the beginning of the 21st century, low-cost airlines have revolutionized aviation, giving flyers access to cheap short- and long-haul connections. The growth of such flights in Asia by 10% per year and by 9% in Europe underlines that low-cost flying has become a significant driver of the growth of mass tourism. Point-to-point models and a uniform fleet allow to reduce operating costs, keeping prices attractive to a wide range of travelers.
4. New generations of travelers – experiences over matter.
Increasingly choose travel focused on experiences, flexibility and authenticity. They follow travel influencers on social media. They prefer online bookings directly with service providers and often make last-minute bookings. This trend is supported by platforms offering unique, local experiences – from culinary workshops to ecotourism – allowing tourists to “immerse” themselves in the culture of the places they visit.
5. Sustainability and responsible tourism.
Growing ecological awareness of tourists is driving demand for sustainable offers – the global sustainable tourism market was worth USD 1.71 trillion in 2023 and is forecast to grow to USD 7.19 trillion by 2032. International organizations estimate that by the end of 2024 the tourism industry will have regained 98% of its pre-pandemic level, but at the same time they emphasize the need to minimize the negative effects of mass tourism on the environment. Many companies are implementing crowd management plans and ecotourism, engaging local communities and promoting low-carbon forms of travel.
6. COVID-19 Pandemic Shock and Revival
The 2020 pandemic caused a historic collapse in international travel, with arrivals down by over 70% compared to 2019. The industry’s rapid adaptation – introducing flexible cancellation policies, hygiene standards and digital contactless solutions – contributed to a full recovery in 2024. The pandemic also accelerated the development of digital services such as online check-in and travel telemedicine, changing traveler expectations forever.
7. Marketing Evolution – Social Media and Influencers.
The reach of travel influencers has increased several-fold, making social media the primary channels for inspiration and travel sales. Travel brands are investing in partnerships with creators, focusing on authenticity of the message and micro-influencers who build stronger relationships with niche audiences. UGC (user-generated content) campaigns and reviews have become a key element of building trust – 92% of tourists trust recommendations from other users more than ads.
Summary.
Over the past two decades, tourism has moved from analog processes to a fully digital market dominated by smartphones and peer-to-peer platforms. The democracy of travel through low-cost airlines and the sharing economy has combined with growing environmental awareness and the desire for authentic experiences. Although the COVID-19 pandemic has been an unprecedented challenge, the industry has not only recovered but also introduced lasting innovations. The future of tourism will be shaped by further developments in technology, responsible management of resources and the evolving expectations of increasingly demanding travelers.
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