Travel Leaders Group, a national travel agency network, recently published the results of a survey of travel agents on traveler confidence and how concerns about terrorism influence booking choices. The survey shows that although terrorism remains a consideration, it is not preventing most travelers from going ahead with planned trips.
Canada ranks highest in traveler confidence. According to the survey, 96.1 percent of travel agents reported that their clients have little to no concern about traveling to Canada. Among bookings to Canada, 99.6 percent experienced no cancellations or delays related to traveler anxiety. The United States follows closely, with 93.2 percent of agents saying their clients express little to no concern. Other regions showing strong traveler confidence include New Zealand (90.3 percent), Australia (90 percent), the South Pacific excluding New Zealand and Australia (88.3 percent), and Northern Europe (74.2 percent).
By contrast, the survey identifies several areas where traveler confidence is lower. These include the Middle East (12.2 percent), Asia excluding India and Southeast Asia (35 percent), Africa (36.6 percent), and Russia (36.7 percent).
Ninan Chacko, CEO of Travel Leaders Group, emphasized the industry’s focus on safety. “Safety is our top priority for our clients,” he said. “Our travel agents provide clear, factual information so travelers can make informed decisions about their trips. We also recognize that comfort levels vary from person to person: some travelers seek adventurous, off-the-beaten-path experiences, others prefer well-established destinations, and many feel safest exploring within their own country.”
The survey underscores that while security concerns are part of travel decision-making, most travelers — guided by agent expertise and up-to-date information — continue to book trips to a wide range of destinations.