Europe is the top region for digital travel planning, with 66% of travelers booking trips online, surpassing North America and Asia-Pacific (both at 63%)
Mar 10, 2025
Despite cautious consumer sentiment, the global travel market continues to grow, with Europe leading the shift toward online bookings. At the ITB Berlin 2025 tourism exhibition, Phocuswright Senior Vice President Mitra Sorrells highlighted key trends shaping the industry, including AI-driven travel planning, rising travel costs, and the growing demand for sustainable tourism.
Key takeaways
- Social media drives travel trends: Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Reddit are increasingly influencing travel decisions, especially among younger travelers;
- Travel spending remains strong: Despite inflation and geopolitical tensions, global travel spending rose by 9% from 2023 to 2024 and is expected to surpass $2 trillion by 2026;
- AI reshapes the industry: AI-driven tools provide personalized recommendations and real-time travel insights, but consumers demand more accurate data on pricing and offerings;
- Sustainability challenges persist: While interest in eco-friendly travel is rising, many consumers struggle to understand what sustainability truly entails in their travel choices.
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