A recent report released by the World Tourism and Travel Council revealed city tourism is on the rise.
According to the report, cities represent 45 percent of global international travel, with over half a billion trips taken to cities annually.
Out of more than 70 cities analyzed, Cancún’s economy relies on tourism the most.
Tourism to this popular Mexican city accounts for nearly half of all of its Gross Domestic Product. In other words, Cancun is the world’s most touristy city, according to the WTTC.
Cities that closely followed Cancun in tourism include Marrakech, Morroco, where tourism makes up 30 percent of its GDP; Macau, China where tourism accounts for 29 percent of its GDP; Orlando, Florida with 18 percent; Antalya, Turkey makes up 17 percent; and Dubrovnik, Croatia, where tourism makes up 17 percent of its GDP.
The report attributes the increase in visiting urban areas by tourists to growing connectivity.
“Travel to city destinations has grown more rapidly than total international travel demand over the past decade and account for a rising share of overall travel demand aided by growing connectivity and rich cultural assets,” the report reads.
Currently, WTTC research said with 54 percent of the world’s population living in urban areas, cities have become economic hubs. These urban areas contribute to growth, innovation, and job creation, which in turn, will continue to attract more people to discover them.
The WTTC predicts that by 2050, more than 65 percent of the global population will live in cities. This anticipated growth, according to WTTC officials, means that the rise of city tourism is here to stay.