Changes in the Propensity to Take Holiday Trips Abroad in EU Countries between 1985 and 1997

Abstract

The main purposes of this study were, first, to explore trends in the propensity to take holiday trips abroad in 12 EU countries by comparing data for 1985 and 1997 and, second, to find explanations for the observed development. The study was based on Eurobarometer data. Log-linear models were used as methodological tools. The models show that differences among countries in the propensity to take holiday trips abroad have been levelling out. Age and gender had no direct effect on the growth in propensity: rather, the effect of the interaction of age and ‘regime’ on propensity was evident. The travel propensity of younger age groups in low-propensity countries has grown more rapidly than expected.