What form of tourism is constantly on the rise?

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Grab your towel and lace up your sneakers, as sports tourism and wellness tourism are on the rise and will rise even higher.

Tourism trends are shaped by changing traveler preferences, technological developments and global conditions, and are constantly changing the data regarding travel. In recent years, therefore, and based on the above, there has been a shift towards more sustainable, authentic and personalized travel experiences. Sustainable tourism has certainly taken on great dimensions, however, it seems that wellness tourism and sports tourism are constantly on the rise, as travelers seek health, relaxation and activities in nature.Specifically, wellness tourism includes travel for the purpose of relaxation, rejuvenation and health improvement. Some popular forms of it are thermalism and thermal baths (spas, hot springs), yoga and meditation in specialized retreats, detoxification and nutrition (healthy eating programs, fasting retreats) and holistic therapies (Ayurveda, acupuncture, aromatherapy), with particular development in places with natural springs, luxury resorts and special wellness facilities.Sports tourism refers to travel related to sports activities, either for participation or for watching sporting events. Some forms of it are sports events (e.g. Olympic Games, Athens Marathon), extreme sports (mountaineering, rock climbing, kite surfing, diving), cycling and hiking tourism on natural trails, skiing and winter sports in organized ski resorts, and sports camps and training centers for teams and athletes.These two forms of tourism are often combined, as more and more travelers choose destinations that offer both physical activity and relaxation.What’s coming

According to the 2022 World Tourism Report, wellness tourism is expected to grow by 7.5% annually through 2030 , with Europe holding a significant share of the market. Greece, with its rich natural resources and traditional spas, is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend.At the same time, sports tourism is expected to see a significant increase in the same period, reaching $1.8 trillion in 2030 , with a particular emphasis on activities such as hiking, cycling and water sports. The variety of the Greek landscape and the mild climate make the country an ideal destination for sports activities throughout the year.Overall, the outlook for wellness tourism and sports tourism in Greece is highly positive, with market trends and strategic investments supporting their growth in the coming years.