In the first half of the year, Asia Pacific received 9 per cent more international arrivals than previously, more than any other region in the world. Following is Africa, with a 5 per cent increase; the Americas, with a 4 per cent increase (primarily led by Central and South America); and Europe, with a 3 per cent increase. The Middle East experienced a decrease of 9 per cent.

“Tourism has proven to be one of the most resilient economic sectors worldwide. It is creating jobs for millions, at a time when providing perspectives for a better future to people of all regions is one of our biggest challenges. But tourism is also creating bonds among people of all nations and backgrounds, bringing down stereotypes and fighting fear and distrust,” said Taleb Rifai, secretary-general, UNWTO.

Asia Pacific can credit its growth to intra-regional demand, with Oceania leading the need, followed by Northeast and Southeast Asia. China continues as the world’s top source market, contributing double-digit growth in international travel expenditure. Other countries in the region showing strong growth in expenditure include Australia, at 10 per cent, and Japan, at 6 per cent.

In other regions of the world, as expected, tourism was down in countries experiencing recent terroristic threats. This is seen primarily in Western Europe and Southern Mediterranean Europe, where international arrival growth hovered around 1 or 2 per cent.

“Safety and security are key pillars of tourism development and we need to strengthen our common action to build a safe, secure and seamless travel framework. This is no time to build walls or point fingers; it is time to build an alliance based on a shared vision and a joint responsibility,” added Rifai.

Trends are expected to continue throughout the remainder of the year, with the first six months accounting for around 46 per cent of the year’s total international arrivals.