Vacations are becoming increasingly expensive, but Moldovans are not giving up on traveling. Tourist packages have become more costly compared to previous years, yet demand remains steady. The most popular destinations continue to be Turkey, Egypt, Bulgaria, and Greece, while trends show growing interest in exotic vacations and cruises, IPN reports.

Ana-Adelina Hincu, sales manager at the tour operator Join Up, explains that price increases are driven by several factors: hotels are investing in renovations, improving tourist facilities, and developing new entertainment and relaxation options. Despite the rising costs, Moldovans continue to travel just as much, with preferences shaped by budget and the desire for comfort. Turkey, alongside Bulgaria and Egypt, remains a top choice, while in recent winters, many Moldovans have opted for the United Arab Emirates.

Maria Marinuta, director of the travel agency Faintur, confirms that Moldovan tourists still prefer traveling abroad for relaxation. "From Chisinau, there are numerous direct flights to popular destinations, making it easier to enjoy vacations abroad. Some tourists even take out loans to afford unforgettable experiences," says Marinuta. Along with Turkey, Egypt, Greece, and Bulgaria, Romania continues to attract interest from Moldovan travelers.

Rodica Sudacevschi, general director of Trippo Travel, highlights that all-inclusive packages remain the most in-demand, and interest in exotic destinations is growing. There is increased demand for destinations such as the Maldives, Zanzibar, Mauritius, and Sri Lanka. Some exotic destinations now offer direct flights, making travel more convenient. Interest in city breaks and cruise vacations is also on the rise.

In addition to higher vacation costs, some countries have introduced tourist taxes aimed at reducing overcrowding and protecting popular destinations. These fees are sometimes included in airfare or hotel rates, adding to tourists' overall expenses. Despite these challenges, travel agencies report that Moldovans continue to plan vacations, adapting their offers to meet demand with varied and accessible experiences.

According to data from the National Bureau of Statistics, in 2024, the number of people traveling through travel agencies increased by 10.4% compared to the previous year, reaching 555.9 thousand. Of these, 396.9 thousand traveled abroad, marking a 9.5% increase from 2023.