Brisbane remains the top destination for travelers in 2024
- Brisbane is projected to host 100,000 passengers by the year's end, making it the leading domestic destination.
- Passengers contribute approximately $20.8 million annually to the local economy, showcasing the region's economic benefits.
- The report confirms Brisbane's status as a crucial hub for Greyhound passengers, reinforcing its ongoing popularity.
In Australia, Brisbane has emerged as the most-visited destination for domestic travelers in 2024, according to a report by Greyhound Australia released on December 3, 2024. This report highlighted that approximately 100,000 passengers are expected to arrive in the city by the end of the year. It also noted that the influx of visitors contributes around $20.8 million annually to Brisbane's local economy. With a robust transportation network featuring ten Greyhound services arriving at the Brisbane Coach Terminal daily, the city's appeal to both locals and tourists remains significant. The report indicated that Greyhound Australia has fierce competition, with Sydney and Melbourne following as the second and third most popular destinations, respectively. Interestingly, the study revealed that a full Greyhound busload typically spends about $6,000 per night on average, showcasing the economic impact of these visitors. Notably, a considerable portion of Greyhound passengers, about 40 percent, are backpackers who utilize travel passes to reach popular tourist sites such as Airlie Beach, Noosa, and Cairns. In conjunction with the travel patterns, the report also reflected shifting perceptions of domestic travel costs. Over three-quarters of survey respondents noted that they felt traveling within Australia has become more expensive since the COVID-19 pandemic. Moreover, older travelers, particularly those aged over 65, showed a propensity for longer trips, which correlated with higher spending capacity among this demographic. As Brisbane continues to thrive as a pivotal hub for Greyhound passengers, it is clear that the city's attractiveness is bolstered by its strategic location, vibrant culture, and strong connections to other holiday destinations. The sustained interest in Brisbane can be understood in the context of a growing desire for domestic travel options in Australia, particularly as travelers seek safety and convenience following the disturbances caused by the pandemic.