Tensions in the Middle East and the associated energy crisis are also affecting the tourism industry, the active season of which is rapidly approaching. This may change both the travel plans of Latvian residents and the interest of foreign tourists in the country.
At the beginning of this year, the number of tourists in Latvia has slightly decreased; however, this is not related to the crisis in the Middle East, said tourism researcher and head of the Latvian Association of Travel Agents and Operators, Erik Lingebērziņš, in an interview with the program "900 Seconds" on TV3.
"We remain optimistic that the number of tourists may increase, but it must be said that the overall background in which we are currently operating is one of new shocks. We are in a constant crisis, and the tourism industry has to continuously deal with various crisis factors," noted Lingebērziņš.
Commenting on the current energy crisis, he explained that tourism is directly linked to transportation, so price increases are expected.
"We see what is happening at gas stations; the same applies to aviation fuel for international trips. It is clear that prices are rising during certain periods, and they will continue to rise," added Lingebērziņš.
At the same time, he noted that tourists are currently being cautious and taking a wait-and-see approach before making travel decisions.
