Not only the unpleasant events of this year, such as the attacks in Europe, but also the fact that Romanians have begun to change their mentality have made 2016 a totally atypical year in spending vacations and choosing destinations, believes Carmen Pavel, owner of J’Info Tours.
The Turkey destination has decreased significantly, by approximately 40%, and my opinion is that it will recover with difficulty. Bulgaria has also dropped in the top preferences of Romanian tourists. In contrast, the Romanian seaside has grown significantly, by 18-20%, with an increase in full stays, not just weekends, specified the owner of J’Info Tours.
Carmen Pavel stated that since the beginning of the year she changed the strategy and bet on new destinations, exotic destinations, cultural and adventure circuits. So Romanians preferred to spend their vacations in Spain, the star destination of the year, Romania, Greece, and Bulgaria, and discovered the Spanish island of Lanzarote, Portugal and the beaches around Lisbon, Madeira, and the Azores – which are destinations for active tourism – and went to Italy and France instead of Turkey.
Outside Europe, Romanians preferred circuits in the USA, South America, China, Japan, India, Australia and New Zealand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, and Myanmar.
„Generations are changing and mentality is changing a lot too. Many have realized that this all-inclusive system means a few extra pounds upon returning from vacation and are changing their conception of vacations, wanting active holidays and discovering that during a week they can relax through activities and that relaxation does not mean sitting in the sun and not moving and doing nothing but being alone with your thoughts,” specified Carmen Pavel.
Source: Wall-Street
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is 2016 considered an atypical year for Romanian tourism?
The year is considered atypical due to a combination of security concerns in traditional destinations like Turkey and a fundamental shift in tourist mentality toward active exploration.
Which destinations replaced Turkey in the preferences of Romanian tourists?
Romanians shifted their interest toward Spain (the year’s star destination), the Romanian seaside, Italy, France, and exotic locations like Madeira and the Azores.
What is driving the shift away from all-inclusive vacations?
New generations of travelers are prioritizing health and active relaxation, viewing movement and cultural activities as better ways to unwind than sedentary all-inclusive stays.