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???? The Central American Tourism Promotion Agency reaffirmed Italy as a key market for tourism experiences in Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama, and the Dominican Republic. In 2023, visitors from six key European markets to Central America—Spain, Germany, the UK, France, Italy, and the Netherlands—totaled 1.733 million, accounting for a market share of 12-14%. In 2024, the region welcomed over 25 million visitors, an 11% increase from the previous year, including more than 170,000 travelers from Italy. Boris Iraheta, Secretary-General of CATA, highlighted the commitment to the Italian market and offering experiences that align with current travel trends. CATA plans to continue promoting the region through commercial partnerships and media relations into 2025.

🏖️ In 2025, two-thirds of Italians (65%) plan to travel, with 47% changing destinations yearly. Most preferred destinations: the sea (48%), itinerant travels (16%), mountains (12%), and cities of art (7%). A cultural trip is intended by 71% of those surveyed. Only 10% have booked in January 2025, but 74% will book later; Gen Z tends to book last minute (19%) or not at all (8%). Online bookings are at 65%. The average budget is 1,130 euros per person, with trips over 8 nights costing around 1,600 euros, and almost 1,900 euros for extra-European travels. 26% consider Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) options, with 43% of early bookers considering it, especially for high-value packages. Compass' marketing director Luigi Pace notes merchants using HeyLight, Compass' BNPL platform, report sales increase and higher average tickets.