Traveling is one of life’s greatest treasures. Exploring different languages, new foods and unfamiliar streets can be transformative. But feeling unwelcome in a foreign country can take all the pleasure out of the experience.
Travel-dating site MissTravel.com surveyed more than 2,000 members to determine what annoyed them most about traveling. According to more than 700 respondents, the irrational dislike or fear of people from other countries, also known as Xenophobia topped the list as the Biggest Travel Pet Peeve of 2017.
The Biggest Travel Pet Peeves of 2017 (based on responses from 2,921 members):
Xenophobia – 701 – 24.00%
Overly-crowded destinations – 554 – 18.97%
Hidden travel costs – 467 – 15.99%
Flight delays – 323 – 11.06%
Loud children – 263 – 9.00%
Other – 613 – 20.99%
“In recent years the travel and tourism industry has flourished. Social media platforms play a large part in helping to make exotic destinations feel accessible and has roused a curiosity about other cultures.” says Brandon Wade, founder and CEO of MissTravel.
“However, a sense of security are necessary conditions for this industry to succeed. Travelers want to feel safe while exploring a new place. Fear of discrimination and a perception of not being welcome can deter people from choosing to venture out to particular destinations.”
