Spain’s tourism sector is thriving, with British tourists leading the charge in spending and visitor numbers. Despite recent anti-tourism protests, the country continues to attract a growing number of international travelers, particularly from Asia, who are contributing to record spending levels.
The UAE’s tourism sector is experiencing a surge in international visitor spending, projected to reach $52.2 billion this year, marking a 9.4% increase. This growth positions the UAE as the 10th largest global recipient of inbound tourism spending, driven by increased travel demand and a robust infrastructure. The sector’s contribution to the regional GDP is expected to significantly grow in the coming years, generating significant employment opportunities.
Erie County, New York, saw a record-breaking $2.4 billion in tourism spending in 2023, marking an 11% increase from 2022. The surge in spending was driven by increased activity in lodging, dining, and recreation sectors. This tourism boom also led to a significant increase in tourism-related jobs, reaching 28,650 positions, representing a 4.6% growth.
Visa shares insights into Japan’s Sakura season, highlighting its significant impact on tourism spending. Transaction volume surged by 43%, while tourism spending increased by 50%. The bloom’s progression saw spending peaks move from south to north, with regions like Kyoto and Ishikawa witnessing a doubling of weekly visitor numbers. Visitors from Southeast Asia and East Asia were the highest spenders, with last-minute shopping sprees contributing to over 60% of expenditures on the final travel day. The analysis underscores the growing adoption of contactless payments, which surged by 14% during the season.
