The Top 3 Reasons To Visit Europe This Summer

Europe is officially open to American tourists this summer, which means you can book your summer escape now! Lots of travelers are wondering if they should visit this summer or postpone to later in 2021 or possibly 2022. As European travel experts, we have outlined the top 3 reasons to visit Europe this summer.

 

Check out why you should visit Europe this summer and let us know in the comments if you’ll be traveling to Europe and when!

 

1. Fewer Tourists 

As Europe has opened the borders to American tourists very recently, many travelers had already made alternative summer vacation plans. Additionally, some travelers have not yet felt comfortable enough to visit Europe or question if it is worth the trip taking into consideration the COVID-related restrictions in place locally.

 European travel levels for summer 2021 are trending to be more than 46 percent lower than pre-pandemic levels. If you’ve been wanting to visit a highly sought-after tourist destination, now is the perfect time to avoid the crowds. 

 

For those who are ready to return to travel, there are many trends in the industry to consider, according to EuroNews:

– More adventurous activities and seeking the great outdoors

– Top destinations include Iceland, Portugal, and Italy

– Travel + work combined, more people are comfortable taking a longer trip and working during part of it

– Conscious travel is on the rise; more slow and meaningful travel

– Low travel is more popular than ever; taking on the ground transport such as buses, trains, and cars vs. airplanes

 

 

2. Support Tourism Reliant Local Businesses

It’s no secret that the tourism industry has been one of the most directly impacted sectors due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The World Travel & Tourism Council recently released its Economic Impact Report in which it found that ‘in 2020, 62 million jobs were lost, representing a drop of 18.5%, leaving just 272 million employed across the sector globally, compared to 334 million in 2019.’


Source: wttc.org

Without tourists this summer, many businesses that are supported by these visitors won’t survive until the next high-summer season. If do you do plan to visit Europe this summer, be sure to shop locally and support small businesses!

 

3.  The World’s Best Beaches

Perhaps the most obvious reason to visit Europe this summer is to take advantage of the summer weather and visit Europe’s world-class beaches. While many travelers have reportedly stated that they are looking to come to Europe this Fall or later, summer in Europe truly can’t be missed! Swim in the glistening waters of the Amalfi Coast, go boating through the Greek Islands or learn how to surf in southern Portugal. 

If you’re ready to get away this summer, but are worried about planning and staying up to date with all the latest travel requirements check out our Escape 2 Europe trips. These are our weeklong, small group trips for like-minded 20-somethings with all the inclusions you could possibly want for an incredible and authentic first trip back to Europe!