Moderate growth predicted for tourism sector in 2010

Confidence is beginning to return among tourism professionals according to data released by the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO).

Confidence within the tourism industry is picking up, according to the latest World Tourism Barometer published by UNWTO.

In its survey of more than 330 industry experts from around the globe, the organisation found that the number of respondents with a negative outlook for the coming four months decreased by 20 per cent.

Over one-quarter (28 per cent) of those polled viewed their prospects as better or much better than their present situation, UNWTO revealed.

While the number of international tourist levels showed a drop, the decline was slower than it had been in the previous six months.

UNWTO secretary general Taleb Rifai, commented: “The negative trend that emerged during the second half of 2008 and intensified in 2009 is starting to show signs of receding.”

A survey carried out by InsureandGo in October found that redundancy and uncertainty in the job market was driving British tourists to holiday abroad, with 37 per cent citing the recession as their primary reason to travel outside the UK.

Written by Erin Marshall