Hungarians Unfazed by Inflation, Continue to Travel Abroad

Published: December 04 2023

Despite the rising costs of living and inflation in Hungary, Hungarians are not letting it affect their desire to travel abroad. Travel agencies are expecting to end the year with record-breaking revenue, with an increase in demand for skiing trips, exotic vacations, and shorter trips during the holiday season.

Skiing trips have become much more popular compared to last year, with bookings starting as early as September. Hungarian travelers are also showing interest in "winter to summer" exotic vacation destinations and shorter trips for advent and New Year's. The high inflation and decrease in real wages have not deterred Hungarians from spending on foreign travel.

Despite economic difficulties, Hungarian travelers are eager to continue exploring the world. The restrictions and limitations experienced during the Covid-19 pandemic have made people appreciate the opportunity to travel even more. Travel is seen as an experience that provides year-long fulfillment, and many are willing to make sacrifices to make it happen.

The increase in prices for flights and foreign services has caused the average prices for travel to rise by about 15% compared to last year. This increase is not due to the decisions or business policies of local travel agencies but rather the rise in airfare and costs associated with foreign services. However, despite the higher prices, travel agencies are still expecting to end the year with revenue that surpasses the record-breaking year of 2019.

Hungarian travelers are showing interest in destinations such as Egypt, Dubai, Oman, and other countries in the Middle East. The availability of charter flights has made winter vacations in exotic locations more accessible and affordable. For example, a direct flight to Salalah, Oman, offers white sandy beaches, warm temperatures, and green landscapes. Travel packages to this destination start at around 400,000 HUF in a four-star hotel with all-inclusive services. The winter season is proving to be successful for travel agencies, with popular destinations in the Caribbean and Europe also attracting a significant number of travelers.

Overall, Hungarians' interest in foreign travel remains strong despite economic challenges. Travel agencies are adapting to rising prices and offering attractive options for winter vacations and exotic destinations, resulting in a successful year for the industry.

What is the state of international travel for Hungarians? Despite inflation and rising cost of living, Hungarians continue to travel abroad.

How are travel agencies in Hungary performing this year? Travel agencies in Hungary are expected to end the year with record revenues.

Which type of trips are more popular this year compared to last year in Hungary? Ski trips are in higher demand this year compared to last autumn. Additionally, there is an increasing popularity in "winter to summer" exotic trips and shorter trips during Advent and New Year's Eve.

Are Hungarians cutting back on travel expenses? While Hungarians may be cutting back on some expenses, the high inflation and decreased real wages have not affected their desire to travel abroad.

Which destinations are popular among Hungarian travelers? Egypt, Dubai, and Oman are popular destinations, along with trips to Israel, which have recently resumed after a temporary halt due to the war.

Have travel prices increased in Hungary this year? Yes, travel prices in Hungary have increased on average by 15% compared to last year. This increase is primarily due to the rising costs of flights and foreign services.

Why are Hungarians still interested in traveling despite economic challenges? The interest in traveling abroad among Hungarians remains strong, even amidst economic challenges, thanks to the recognition that travel experiences provide a valuable source of enrichment and fulfillment.

How are Hungarian travel agencies expecting to end the year in terms of passenger numbers and revenue? Hungarian travel agencies are expected to end the year with passenger numbers approaching the record year of 2019 and with revenue surpassing that of the previous year.

What destinations are being added to the travel offerings of Hungarian travel agencies? The travel agency Kartago Tours is adding new destinations, such as Dubai and Ras Al-Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates, as well as Salalah in Oman. These destinations offer affordable options for winter travelers seeking warm weather and nature.

What are the travel options and costs for those interested in traveling to Salalah in Oman? Salalah, which offers white sandy beaches, warm temperatures ranging from 26-30°C (78-86°F), and lush nature, can be reached in a 7-hour direct flight. Prices for a week-long trip, including accommodation in a four-star hotel with all-inclusive services, start at 400,000 Hungarian forints for one person, while prices in a five-star hotel start at 500,000 Hungarian forints.

Which other remote destinations are popular among Hungarian travelers this year? Dominica, Cuba, Mexico, and Mauritius are also popular destinations among Hungarian travelers. In Europe, there is a high demand for guided tours and city visits.

How many travelers has IBUSZ, a Hungarian travel agency, served this year? IBUSZ has already served more than 100,000 travelers this year, surpassing expectations for the winter season.