As the impact of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic subsides, European tourism is undergoing remarkable changes. Once deserted streets have been replaced by vibrant landmarks thanks to a surge in American tourists.
Compared to last year, American tourists to Europe increased by 55%, setting a new record.
Airlines are helping to make traveling to Europe more affordable for passengers by creating several new options.
In contrast to the deserted cobblestone streets seen during recent lockdowns, cities such as Paris, London and Rome are now crowded with tourists.
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Tourists are taking innovative approaches to navigating through the crowds, such as taking Vespa sidecar tours. Vespa Sidecar Tour founder Lucadi His Trappano said this year’s surge in spectators is beyond anything he’s seen before.
The increase in tourism is bringing relief to local businesses that have borne the brunt of the pandemic’s impact.
Giuseppe Rossioli, president of Rome’s hotel association, sees the tourism boom as a “magical moment” after nearly three years of widespread hotel closures. In response to the surge in demand, room rates rose sharply. In Rome he rose 20%, in London 30% and in Paris he rose an astonishing 50%.
However, not all tourists attract positive attention.
In June, two American tourists were arrested on Rome’s Spanish Steps after pushing and throwing electric scooters, causing $25,000 worth of damage, local authorities said.
In Rome, a tourist who was caught carving his and his girlfriend’s names into the Colosseum using a key could face a fine of more than $16,000 or five years in prison.
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