Sports tourism represents around 10% of the global expenditure on tourism

 

Sports tourism represents around 10% of the global expenditure on tourism and is expected to be close to 7 billion euros by 2023. Active sports tourism is expected to see an increased consumer interest post-Covid, due to rising interest regarding more health-conscious lifestyles.

Considering this, Gymcatch assessed the sports tourism facilities of the world’s top 50 holiday destinations, to find the countries with the maximum prospective to become global ‘sports tourism’ market leaders.

The study takes into account the number of yoga and wellness retreats, water-sport facilities, cycling routes, ski-slopes and hiking routes per tourist. The study determines which countries are positioned to be the most attractive and affordable destinations for ‘active travelers’ with reopening of international travel.

Considering facilities and value for money, Australia was on the top of the study, scoring particularly well for hikers, water-sports enthusiasts and yogis.

Brazil came 2nd, scoring particularly well for its cycling facilities. Developing nations like Brazil and India (which grabbed the 6th place in the study) are expected to drive the global sports tourism market as they invest in more sports infrastructure. Switzerland was placed 4th.The UK came 14th in the study, ranking in the top of 28% of destinations.

Tags: sports tourism