Analyst: Slovakia More of Weekend Destination, Mainly Locals Take Holidays Here

Bratislava, 26 July (TASR) - Slovakia is more of a weekend destination, with domestic tourists playing a key role, Slovenska sporitelna bank analyst Matej Hornak has stated, adding that the summer tourist season is in full swing, but although the number of visitors to Slovakia in the first five months of this year grew, it still hasn't reached pre-pandemic levels. According to the analyst, demand for travel is hampered by the relatively higher prices of services and the uncertainty of economic development. "Travellers today are increasingly looking for value for money, shortening stays or staying closer to home, with many countries struggling with the impacts of climate change, big seasonal factors or mass tourism. Despite the complicated economic situation, the number of visitors is expected to go up, but Slovakia needs more foreign tourists," said Hornak. Interest in travel is growing both in Slovakia and worldwide. Hornak added that 2.2 million guests visited accommodation facilities in Slovakia in the first five months of this year, which is a 6-percent year-on-year increase, but still 1 percent less than in the same period in 2019. Domestic demand is key, with foreign tourists accounting for only about a third of visitors so far this year. "It is still true that Slovakia is mainly a weekend destination, as the average number of overnight stays has long remained at around 2.5 nights. Therefore, Slovakia has great potential in terms of foreign tourists, but we need to improve accessibility (e.g. transport connections) and make the country more attractive," said Hornak. am/df