Photo by National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases on Unsplash
Australia is fast becoming a magnet for sports tourism, and the ripple effects are changing how people travel worldwide. According to new research backed by Airbnb and Expedia, sports-focused travel now makes up 10% of the global tourism market, with spending projected to top AU$1.3 trillion by 2032.
This surge is driven largely by Gen Z and millennials, who favor group trips centered around major sporting events. Their preference for renting entire homes near stadiums and gathering in local neighborhoods is also giving a healthy boost to local economies — from cafes and pubs to rideshare and local merch sales.
But while fans flock to Australia for match-day thrills, travelers heading to Central Europe face a more sobering advisory:
A hepatitis A outbreak has spread across Austria, Czechia, Hungary, and Slovakia, infecting over 2,000 people and causing nine deaths so far this year. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) is urging visitors to get vaccinated before traveling to affected regions. Extra caution with food and water hygiene is also recommended, as the illness spreads easily through contaminated food and drink.
The Takeaway:
Whether you’re planning to catch a World Cup qualifier Down Under or explore Europe’s historic cities, today’s travelers must balance adventure with common-sense caution. Experience-driven travel is soaring — but so is the need to stay informed and protected.
Sources: People.com
