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Tourists are changing their typical summer destinations as Europe grapples with troublesome heatwaves — a significant cause of concern, considering that more than 61,000 people passed away due to last year’s similarly brutally hot climates.
Data from the European Travel Commission (ETC) reveals that the popularity of Mediterranean vacation destinations dropped by 10% compared to last year as a consequence of the sweltering weather.
As the heat continues to rise and challenge jet setters, there is an increasing shift in interest toward less heat-affected destinations, indicating a change in the tourism landscape.
Record-Breaking Heatwaves
The European summer of 2023’s ‘heat dome’ is classified by high-pressure air mass leading to unbearable, dry conditions.
Causes of the extreme heat include a slow-moving anticyclone, causing warming of the air mass, with reduced cloud cover enhancing solar radiation, therefore, the heating effect.
Parts of Greece, Eastern Spain, Sicily, Sardinia, and Southern Italy are experiencing temperatures up to a whopping 113°F.
Europe’s weather also influences the Atlantic Ocean, with forecasters worryingly projecting considerably above-average temperatures.
Unsurprisingly, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) stated that extreme weather patterns highlight the need for more significant climate action.
Since the industrial era began, the world has warmed by approximately 2°F. The WMO states, “there’s a 66% chance that the annual average near-surface global temperature between 2023 and 2027 will temporarily rise to more than 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels for at least one year.”
To prevent this from happening, governments across the globe need to cut back on carbon emissions — and quickly!
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The Effects of Scorching Weather
The extreme weather spectacle is raising widespread concerns among tourists, prompting them to switch up their holiday plans.
Despite already sounding disastrously, the consequences of heatwaves across Europe go far beyond offering discomfort among those with the travel bug.
Drastic consequences throughout Europe are being observed, including out-of-control wildfires in Spain, Italy and Greece, leading 19,000 people in Greece alone to evacuate their homes.
These blazes have left many travelers in Greece in a state of deadlock, with the BBC recently reporting visitors being forced to leave their hotels to sleep at airports, sports halls, conference centers, and on the street.
Check out these other five reasons for steering clear of Greece this summer season.
Growing Interest in Cooler Destinations
Consequently, holiday-goers — who typically favor sunny vacations to Spain, Italy, and Greece — appear to be opting to travel to nations with cooler climates. 29% of tourists showed enthusiasm regarding traveling to non-neighboring countries (the highest percentage since August 2020).
As reported by the ETC, these milder destinations include lesser-known holiday spots, including Ireland, the Czech Republic, and Bulgaria.
Although the appeal of cooler climates for summer destinations lies in their potential to provide a refreshing excursion from the roasting weather, these trio of countries offer much more than just a breeze.
All of these destinations provide historical richness and natural beauty, making them the ideal havens for those seeking a comfortable experience to remember.
With rich cultural heritage and fascinating landscapes, Ireland is worth venturing to. Its luscious green countryside, unique coastlines, grand historic castles, and eyepopping cliffs lure travelers from all over the world — as do its cozy pubs ideal for escaping the rain, friendly locals, and these top attractions.
Moreover, the Czech Republic offers a mixture of allure for tourists to explore, with the weather having an average high of 75°F. Prague, the country’s charming capital, boasts numerous fun activities which surround cobblestone streets, medieval castles, Baroque churches, and more.
Beyond the city lies intriguing countryside, swaying hills, and never-ending rivers, making it a go-to destination for those interested in natural beauty.
Lastly, Bulgaria has numerous perks for travelers hunting for unique experiences in the sun. However, heat rarely hits above 82°F. Black Sea coastlines to picturesque mountains make it a paradise destination for beach and nature lovers alike.
Bulgaria is also now a more affordable destination than what it used to be — one of which has extremely warm hospitality, making it an enjoyable experience for those on a budget.
Repointing the Tourism Map
It’s evident that the fatal heatwaves sweeping across Europe are significantly impacting the travel industry, prompting tourists to reconsider their typical go-to summer destinations.
Although this trend remains under wraps regarding if it’s a temporary adjustment or a long-term shift, one thing is apparent: the ridiculously hot spell across Europe is prompting tourists to adventure off the beaten track.
The report signifies a promising time for traditionally less-popular summer destinations and also presents a troublesome time for a particular quartet of European nations that conventionally live off the summer months.
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