An increase in the numbers of cheap flights out of Australia is leading to ever greater numbers of antipodeans holidaying in Europe and the US. The knock-on effect is being felt in major Australian tourist destinations and a three day tourism conference on the Gold Coast is set to address that.
Despite there being lengthy flight times from Australia to most major destinations, the popularity of world travel has soared in recent years. As of June, around a fifth of Australians had taken an overseas holiday in the previous year. In 2000 it was barely half that number. Asia featured the most popular destinations due to its relative proximity.
With the Australian dollar strong at the moment and with increasing numbers of flights out of the country, foreign travel is seemingly unaffected by the worldwide recession.
One approach to encourage more holidays within the country is likely to involve an emphasis on eco-holidays. Australia is considered one of the more environmentally aware nations and is at the forefront in offering such holidays. However, with other nations starting to follow suit, a big effort will be needed to maintain visitor numbers.