2020 has been a challenging year for most countries in the world. The COVID-19 pandemic has not only created a health emergency, but an economic one, as well.
This economic crisis has involved many industries, including tourism.
But with the arrival of the vaccine and the steady decrease of cases, many travelers and companies alike are finally hoping to start the touristic season again.
How did this historic event influence tourism, and what are the changes that we can expect for 2021? Will our habits change, and how?
A renewed interest in sustainable travel
The pandemic has brought forward even more interest in the environment and in sustainable practices when it comes to traveling.
Globalization has helped people to travel in every corner of the world, but it often meant more pollution and risks for the environment.
Tourists are now choosing travel agencies, organizations and travel experts that can offer a sustainable, eco-friendly vacation. Whether it’s the means of transportation, the type of hotel or the experience, you can always find a more sustainable alternative.
Travelling in small groups
Social distancing during trips has become a reality. As the health risks slowly decrease, people want to still have the chance to travel, but safely.
That’s why tourists are choosing to travel in small groups, or within family. Large, big groups are now avoided to keep to their own “bubble”. This allows people to enjoy trips without the high risk associated to large crowds.
Trips without a fixed date
The health emergency has stopped flight routes everywhere in the world. Flight companies often stop and then resume their routes, and it’s hard to know when it’s going to be the next time trips will be available. The same thing can be said of international travel; many countries are currently not accepting tourists, or they implemented very strict measures to allow people to travel.
The solution?
Booking trips without a fixed date. Dateless vacations are getting more popular, as well as early booking. People are now planning holidays very early on, up to 6 to 8 months in advance.
Increased health and safety standards
Travel agencies know it by now: it’s imperative they organize trips and tours with the utmost attention to health and safety standards.
Many companies and travel experts are offering travel packages that include hand sanitizers, masks and social distancing practices. Nowadays most hotels sanitize their rooms routinely, guaranteeing their clients a safe and clean stay.
Niche tourism: urban and rural
While the traditional avenues of tourism see a decrease, there is a type of holiday that is becoming more popular.
Niche tourism is on the rise, both urban and rural.
When it comes to urban travel, people are re-discovering local places, small villages and cities; these trips are usually very short, sometimes only during one day or during the weekend. Rural holidays are popular because these places are less populated, and guarantee more social distancing.
The importance of the Travel Expert
In this ever-changing environment, Travel Experts are the most important figure in the tourism industry. They are the face of the tourism company, and they are the ones tourists look up to for instructions and guidance.
More and more travelers are relying on the local expertise of the Travel Expert to ensure their trip will safe, enjoyable and unforgettable.
Start planning your next holiday now:
