Though the Netherland’s domestic tourism remained slightly more popular in 2018, GlobalData predicted the number of international Dutch travelers would outnumber those traveling domestically by 2022. The data and analytics firm estimated outbound tourism in the country would increase at a compound annual growth rate of 3.8 percent between 2018 and 2024.
GlobalData attributed the rise in international travel to short travel times and cheap prices to a number of popular European destinations; however, the company found potential for domestic tourism in the 22 percent of Dutch residents with no vacation plans between 2018 and 2024.
“A significant reason 22 percent of the Dutch have no plans for travel between 2018 and 2024 is due to their limited disposable income,” said Ben Cordwell, travel and tourism analyst at GlobalData. Dutch destination marketing organizations, he added, “should target this segment with cheap, affordable domestic packages to help boost the national economy and spread wealth.”
Specifically, he suggested destinations should focus on camping to attract Dutch tourism. “The Netherlands currently has 2,800 camping establishments, meaning DMOs could target this Dutch pastime and provide vacations for those who either can’t afford or simply do not wish to travel abroad,” Cordwell said.
Cordwell also suggested focusing on food travel. Domestic tourists in the Netherlands spend around US$82 per trip, estimated GlobalData. “A total 69 percent of Dutch tourists believe Europe offers the best cuisine, but only 38 percent think that is provided in the Netherlands,” said Cordwell. “This is a big opportunity for businesses within the Netherlands that offer alternative continental food and culture.”