A new study by SiteMinder, the global hotel industry’s leading guest acquisition platform, highlights the commitment of Spanish locals to the country’s tourism sector beyond COVID-19. SiteMinder’s latest Changing Traveller Report, based on the survey responses of 570 Spaniards, has found that over 90 percent plan to travel before the end of 2021, with almost 50 percent hitting the road in the next three months.
The news indicates a positive outlook for both Spain’s accommodation sector and its broader economy, which has historically relied on tourism to generate an eighth of the nation’s GDP annually.
SiteMinder’s country manager for Spain, Sara Padrosa, says the findings are encouraging for the country’s hoteliers whose businesses have been among the hardest hit by the ongoing pandemic.
“The people of Spain have always supported their country’s travel and tourism industry, especially during these summer months,” says Sara. “While we have seen international bookings increase gradually since the border was relaxed, we know that traveller numbers from what were previously top source markets, such as the UK and Germany, will be lower this year and for some time to come. Our study shows that, in spite of this, Spain’s own are ready to help the local travel and tourism sector as it further reopens.”
According to the findings of the study, well-promoted health and safety practices top the list of concerns for Spanish travellers as they make their accommodation arrangements. Bookings will be made close to the date of departure, including 74 percent that will be made less than a month prior to arrival.
When surveyed, 82 percent of respondents remained in the pre-booking phase, suggesting that a flurry of bookings is likely for July and August.
