2023 is expected to be a strong year for travel, with U.S. travelers feeling more optimistic compared to 2022 and the US airlines expecting record fourth quarter revenues to continue into the year. Despite economic uncertainty, American households are planning to travel more in 2023 than any other year and the U.S. Travel Foundation is forecasting an increase in travel spending compared to prior years. However, travelers should expect completely full flights and plenty of other visitors at popular travel spots.
By the end of 2022, New York City had seen a steady return of visitors across all five boroughs, contributing to a tourism rebound. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused considerable economic damage to the NYC travel sector, with more than 1 million jobs lost in the industry by October 2020. In 2023, NYC & Company is continuing to focus on strategies to lure visitors back to the city and support its recovery. The Office of State Comptroller has published reports highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on different sectors of the City’s economy.
For New Yorkers, 2023 is the year to explore their own city. The number one must-see sight is the Statue of Liberty, an iconic symbol of freedom and hope. For a natural beauty fix, head to the Adirondack Mountains, which are known for their stunning views and hiking trails. Spring and fall are generally considered the best times to visit NYC due to pleasant temperatures, but January has its fair share of exciting events such as Broadway shows and outdoor ice skating at Bryant Park.
From the sunny beaches of Florida to the charming island of Nantucket, 2023 is shaping up to be an excellent year for travel in the United States. Head to Orlando to explore Walt Disney World or visit Kansas City for world-class museums and top-notch BBQ. August is a great time to explore Nantucket in all its summer glory. With much of the world reopened, now is the perfect time to start planning your next US adventure!
There are many great places to visit in 2023, including Alexandria, Virginia, Lima, Peru, Orlando, London, and Aotearoa-New Zealand. The New York Times has compiled a list of 52 places to go in 2023, but you can always discover something unique for yourself.
What are the latest travel trends?
Recent travel trends include eco-travel, ever more popular digital detox, and also the so-called ‘staycations’. And of course the underlying trend – experiential travel. Eco-travel focuses on sustainability and reducing the impact of travel on the environment. ‘Digital detox’ vacations are trips that offer the opportunity to disconnect from technology and connect with nature. Vacation travel is about relaxing close to home, while experiential travel is about immersing yourself in local culture and entertainment.
Tourism helps to learn about other cultures and experience adventure, but it can have negative consequences as well. These include:
- commercialization of cultures,
- destruction of the environment,
- disrespect for indigenous cultures.
Predictions and trending travel trends for 2023 include envision that the vacation spending will not slow, that travelers plan to travel farther afield, that the “culture shock” vacationer type shall get more and more frequent, that so-called ‘rebel spending’, as well as ’dry-cations’ shall be on the rise, as well as the number of tourists hitting the previously poorly explored areas.
This year will see a shift in the way people travel, with an emphasis on wellness, flexibility, and ‘culture shock’ vacations. Meditation and mindfulness getaways will be popular. People will also embrace contactless methods, due to an increased need for safety and security. The four key elements of any tourism business’ marketing strategy (Product, Price, Place, and Promotion) should all be taken into consideration when planning for 2023.
The tourism and travel industry is undergoing a transformation, with new trends and factors impacting the way people travel. Luxury travel is becoming more popular, with culinary experiences, shopping and road trips being the fastest-growing segments. Private rentals and technology-assisted social distancing are also redefining the industry. Additionally, multi-generational trips and off-the-beaten-path tourism are increasing in popularity. Popular career options in the industry include flight attendants, travel agents, lodging managers and more. Travel insurance is now an essential for travelers to protect themselves from unexpected events.
Market of tourist services in the USA
The USA is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, offering a wide variety of attractions and activities, with domestic, inbound and outbound travel contributing greatly to the country’s economy. Travel and tourism industry output increased 64.4 percent in 2021 after decreasing 50.7 percent in 2020, generating $1.9 trillion in economic output and supporting 9.5 million American jobs. International travelers spend more in the United States than any other country, accounting for 14.5% of international travel spending globally.
From the majestic Niagara Falls to the bustling Times Square and the iconic Disney World Parks, North America offers something for everyone. Tourists can also explore ancient sites such as Chichen Itza and Yellowstone National Park, or visit Pearl Harbor and The Freedom Trail. For those looking for a more economical way to travel, bus travel is an affordable option, while credit cards, volunteering programs, Couchsurfing and KOA campsites offer exciting alternatives. With so many options available, tourists are sure to find something that fits their interests and budget.
Canada is the country that visits the US the most, with 20.7 million trips recorded in 2019 alone. The U.S. travel and tourism industry generated $1.9 trillion in economic output, supporting 9.5 million American jobs and accounting for 2.9% of U.S. GDP. International travelers spend more in the United States than any other country, making up 14.5% of international travel spending globally. USA tourism statistics show that in 2019, 1.5 billion tourist arrivals were recorded around the world.
US travel and tourism statistics for 2023, as well as new and trending travel trends for 2023, are predicted to include vacation spend not slowing down, travelers planning trips further out, a full recovery of international travel, and beach vacations being the most popular destination in 2023. Additionally, the U.S. Travel Association provides monthly member-exclusive summaries of the latest economic, consumer, and travel indicators, trends, and analysis featuring key insights into the US travel industry.
California is the US state with the most tourism, with millions of travelers visiting annually to explore its national monuments, parks, beaches and popular attractions such as Disneyland which is visited by almost 15 million people. New York City is the country’s number one tourist destination, welcoming over 50 million visitors a year. On the flip side, North Dakota has the dubious designation of being the least visited state in America. Traveling trends for 2023 are yet to be determined.
The US states with the most tourism include California, Florida, Nevada, Texas and New York. These states offer diverse attractions such as historic sites, national parks and well-known theme parks. On the other hand, Alaska is one of the least-visited states in America.
There is something for everyone in each state of America with popular tourist attractions such as Mobile Port in Alabama, Alaskan wildlife cruise in Alaska and Disney World in Florida. Thus, regardless of whether choosing a popular or less known destination, every traveler can find something worth exploring and enjoying around the USA.
With an estimated 10 million visitors annually, New York City is the most visited city in the US. On the other hand, Missouri is the most forgotten US state, according to Sporcle’s “US States Quiz” with the lowest percent of players guessing it correctly. As such, when considering US tourism by state in 2023, travelers should note that these two states offer a unique experience for those looking to explore the US.
The USA is a great destination for travelers looking to experience the best of American culture, history and natural beauty. From the newly expanded Metis Crossing in Alberta to a trip through the Canadian Rockies via rail, there are plenty of sights and experiences to explore. Foreign tourists can enter the US with either a visitor visa (B-2) or an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) visa waiver, and it is generally considered safe to travel in the country. Before traveling, make sure you check the US State Department website to ensure you have the necessary visa or waiver.
For bike enthusiasts and NYC devotees, there’s a great opportunity to ride around Central Park on a tour organized by Central Park Discovery. This adventure is sure to be a special memory for anyone who takes part – bike tours never fall out of trends.
