European Travel Commission (ETC) is reminding travel advisors of the suite of resources available to them as the number of travellers returning to Europe continues to surge.
The Commission says that transatlantic travel continues to gain momentum, thanks largely to pent-up demand, while travel from Australasia is bouncing back with the ease of restrictions and gradual increase in flight capacity.
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2019 saw 5.7 million tourist arrivals in Europe from the Australian market. The outlook for this market remains positive with Australian tourist arrivals to Europe expected to reach 40% pre-pandemic levels in 2022 and a full rebound by 2024/25.
With recovery well on its way, ETC is reminding travellers that vaccinated individuals are now free to visit many European countries without quarantine or COVID-19 tests. As such, travel advisors are encouraged to reinforce this message in their communication with clients, along with the updated advice that pre-departure tests are no longer required for returning travellers as of 17 April.
To check for entry requirements for each country, advisors are directed to reopen.europa.eu.
Sofia Hansson, Chair of ETC’s Australia Chapter, says: “With the ease of restrictions across many countries, we are no doubt eager and excited to once again welcome back our avid Australian travellers to explore and experience everything that is on offer across Europe.”
To better position and equip advisors in arranging and selling European destinations, members of the European Travel Commission have started rolling out reskilling and upskilling programs to keep the industry updated and informed of the products, activities and experiences on offer in member countries.
Advisors are also encouraged to contact their local NTO representatives to obtain more information relevant to Australian travellers.
When assisting clients, advisors are also reminded to ensure their clients have the most suitable travel insurance prior to departing Australia.
Go to reopen.europa.eu for more information on travel and health measures in Europe; and ETC’s consumer portal visiteurope.com for travel ideas and inspiration.