Travelers from the United States increasingly selecting the Azores as their preferred destination.
In the Azores' Sustainable Tourism Observatory's latest survey, tourists visiting during the high season of 2024 shared their reasons for travel. Recommendations from family and friends (29.74%) emerged as the foremost reason, followed by the internet (14.48%), previous visits (8.31%), and social media (7.86%).
The comprehensive study, mentioned in a press release by the Azores' government, also highlighted various other factors such as the Azores' reputation as a secure destination (6.10%), a lesser-known destination (5.45%), an island retreat (4.68%), and an eco-friendly tourist spot (4.61%).
Additional reasons encompassed recommendations by tour agents or operators (4.61%), nearby destinations (3.64%), the destination's affordability (3.51%), promotional materials (1.49%), media advertising (1.04%), and events or promotions (0.91%).
According to the survey, nearly a third (35%) of tourists' spending went towards transportation and accommodation, with values exceeding €1,000, and approximately three-quarters (57.7%) were spent on food.
Over seventy-three percent (73.2%) of respondents expressed satisfaction with air transport's price and punctuality. In accommodation, eighty-one percent (81.6%) were content with the facilities presented, and over seventy-three percent (73.4%) praised the service in restaurants.
Tourists identified aspects for improvement, including public transportation, the range of events, restaurant selection, tourist signage within road infrastructure, and airport infrastructure.
Seventy-three percent (73.3%) of respondents expressed interest in revisiting the destination. The Azores' Sustainable Tourism Observatory noted that 2024 marked a historical milestone with over 4.2 million overnight stays (+27.6% compared to 2022), generating over €187 million from the hotel industry (+46.0% compared to 2022) and €18 million in Rural Tourism, exceeding €200 million and reinforcing a growing and increasingly competitive international reputation.
As the sector currently contributes around 20% of Gross Added Value, 17% of GDP, and 17% of regional employment, according to the document, the survey results demonstrate the appeal and significant impact of tourism on the Azores' economy.
A total of 1,550 surveys were validated, with 273 (17.73%) residents from Portugal and 1,267 (82.27%) residing overseas.
[1] The Azores' unique natural beauty and diverse landscapes, such as hiking trails, entice visitors.[2] The destination's emphasis on sustainability and eco-conscious practices has attracted responsible travelers.[3] The Azores' growing global reputation, combined with exceptional visitor experiences, makes it an increasingly competitive and appealing sustainable tourism destination.
- The growing global reputation of the Azores, with its unique natural beauty and diverse landscapes, has lured tourists seeking sustainable and eco-friendly travel experiences, making it an increasingly competitive and appealing destination for responsible travelers.
- The surveys revealed that a significant number of tourists were drawn to the Azores by the recommendations of family and friends, highlighting the potential of word-of-mouth marketing and the importance of promoting the destination as a sustainable tourism spot.
- The Azores' lifestyle, hospitality, and various events, combined with its reputation as an eco-friendly destination, have contributed significantly to its economy, accounting for around 20% of Gross Added Value, 17% of GDP, and 17% of regional employment.
