A new survey of 1,000 Allianz Travel Insurance customers who included a tour in their 2023 travel itinerary has found that Europe is the most popular destination for travellers booking tours.  While Europe held the top spot among tour seekers by a wide margin, other popular tour destinations included the Caribbean, the Continental US, Asia, Mexico and Africa.  Travel advisors were listed as the top resource when planning a tour, followed by friends and family and third-party reviews. The survey also found that the majority of customers surveyed said that purchasing travel insurance gave them peace of mind when planning their tour.

The allure of Europe draws many to its tapestry of countries with 52% of surveyed travelers including at least one tour on the old-world continent. Survey respondents listed 10 other destinations they had toured in 2023, which included a wide variety of scenery and experiences.

The survey found that the most popular theme of guided tours is historical/archeological (34%), so the landmarks and architecture offered by easily accessible countries in Europe was a natural fit. Whether exploring the White Cliffs of Dover, the Parisian City of Lights, Italian countryside or ancient Greek treasures, the continent offers much to see and experience any time of year. Cultural immersion (12%) and adventure travel (10%) also were popular travel themes, and more than a quarter of those surveyed chose to combine more than one theme (27%) on their vacation.

Survey respondents pointed to travel insurance as a key confidence builder when planning their tour.  When asked about the role of travel insurance in booking a tour, 73% said having travel insurance gave them peace of mind and 71% said travel insurance increased their confidence to go on their tour.

The survey also found that travelers who choose a guided tour are most comfortable tapping into the service and expertise of professionals, relying on the guidance and recommendations of a travel advisor (37%) when planning their trip.

“A guided tour is a great way to explore a new and exciting destination and our customers seek the knowledge of travel advisors and the peace of mind provided by travel insurance when booking their tours,” said Daniel Durazo, director of external affairs at Allianz Partners USA. “Travel insurance is the perfect complement to any trip, with or without a guide, thanks to the reliable travel protection it offers for covered travel delays, trip interruptions and cancellations plus available ‘round-the-clock travel assistance and important emergency medical coverage.”

Allianz Partners offers travel insurance through most major U.S. airlines, leading travel agents, online travel agencies, hotel companies, cruise lines and directly to consumers.