After the many challenges the travel industry has faced due to the pandemic, ITB attendees are now asking themselves: what changes can travel enthusiasts expect this year? In what direction are the prices moving? How to go on vacation with a smaller budget and is it worth going to Georgia, which this time has been chosen as a guest country?
Will travel remain as expensive?
According to the German Tourism Association (DRV), the price strongly depends on the destination. So far, however, inflation has had less of an impact on package travel than, for example, on individually booked flights. Increasing the cost of flights, especially long-haul, leads to an increase in the cost of energy.
Which destinations are currently the most popular with Germans? Sun, beach and sea – that’s what many Germans want when they go on vacation.
At the height of the tourist season, the five most popular countries are:
Turkey Spain Greece Egypt Portugal Photo: © Messe Berlin GmbH
According to DRV, holiday booking rates in Turkey have even increased despite the earthquake. Due to its good price-performance ratio, this country is particularly popular with all-inclusive families.
During the Easter holidays, many Germans plan to relax in Egypt, Turkey and the Canary Islands. But the Balearic Islands, the Maldives, Greece and the United Arab Emirates are also in fashion.
Where to go on a cheap trip?
First question for budget travel enthusiasts: not where to go on a trip, but where to book a trip. In this regard, Norbert Fiebig, President of the German Tourism Association, advises to seek advice from a qualified travel agent.
If, for example, a family is dependent on a specific holiday period, they should book in advance to take advantage of early bird offers. You can also save on last-minute deals or off-season trips.
Other tips include choosing your departure airport and departure date from Monday to Thursday instead of weekends. Booking a vacation for ten, twelve or 15 days can be cheaper than a two-week stay.
Cheap holidays are also possible in Germany, especially away from metropolitan areas. If you want to go further, Eastern Europe is a cheaper destination.
What can Georgia offer?
This year, Georgia is invited to the ITB. Due to the different heights above sea level, this country is famous for being able to satisfy the most diverse preferences of travelers. There are high mountains, medium mountains and beaches. And this is one of the reasons why the Caucasus countries are becoming more and more popular among travelers.
Georgia, with its culture and history, its famous cuisine and wines, is a dream country, says travel agent Jorg Argelander. But in today’s realities, it is recommended that you first familiarize yourself with the recommendations of the Federal Foreign Office on travel and security issues. Travel to the breakaway regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, as well as areas close to the conflict region, should be avoided for the time being. At the same time, the situation in the rest of the country is stable.
