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Backpackers 'drive global tourism'

(23 Feb 2007)

Going back-packing? – Get a great deal on travel insurance

Backpackers represent the travel industry's fastest growing sector, a new study claims.

According to research conducted between the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) and the World Youth and Student Educational (WYSE) Travel Confederation, travellers between the ages of 16 and 24 accounted for more than 20 per cent of international tourists during 2006.

Director general of WYSE David Jones said: "Young travellers of today set travel trends for the future and make a unique contribution to local economies and cultures."

The research indicated that compared to average tourists, backpackers go abroad for longer as they look to seek out alternative destinations and enjoy a mixture of travel experiences.

Despite increasing backpacker numbers, the WYSE and UNWTO study claimed that about a third of the world's tourism bodies have a specific policy for young people or those travelling on a gap year.

As a result the two organisations are set to promote the positive impact of youth travel, advising backpackers on responsible travel habits and practices.

Last month delegates from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations claimed they are to adopt a "free skies" policy allowing backpackers to visit the ten member states as well as India and China with ease.

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