A stunning one billion tourists are expected to travel worldwide this year, according to UNWTO.
"By the end of 2012, one seventh of the world’s population will have crossed international borders as tourists in a single year," said Talbe Rifai, UNWTO Seretary-General.
This "extraordinary number" will contribute to more jobs, higher income possibilities and countless opportunities for development, he added. But at the same time he called for sustainable growth to accommodate the new travelers.
"Imagine how business models would be transformed if one billion people demanded sustainable practices from hotels and tour operators. Imagine how many would benefit if one billion people bought local produce or hired a local guide. These are small actions, but given the size of our sector, their impact would be huge," he said.
Overall, the growth recorded in 2011 was 4.4%, totaling 980 million international tourist arrivals.
"The economic recovery is one of the main reasons why the numbers are so positive," the agency says, calling it a "fantastic development."
The United Nations World Tourism Organization’s forecast expects a steady growth of the sector in 2012, even if at a slightly slower pace of 3-4%.
By David Wilkening
