Most tourists are “not concerned”...

A new GlobalData survey shows that travellers are not afraid of the virus

As international travel resumes, amid easing travel restrictions and rising vaccination rates, Covid-19 concerns seem to be declining.

According to a poll conducted by analytics company GlobalData, 57% of respondents are “not concerned” or are “not very concerned” about the spread of Covid-19, suggesting that the majority of us are now prepared to live with the virus.

Commenting on the findings, GlobalData travel and tourism analyst, Hannah Free said: “The outlook for tourism in many countries is brighter than at any time in the past two years. However, the turbulence and uncertainty of Covid-19 has created several challenges that are likely to further complicate recovery.”

Free explained that rising demand, coupled with mass layoffs and competition for talent within other sectors has resulted in widespread labour shortages in several tourism economies, including the UK, the Netherlands and Spain.

Source: GlobalData

“The global travel and tourism industry’s post-pandemic recovery is gaining traction as pent-up demand for international travel rekindles,” added Free. “According to GlobalData’s latest forecasts, on a global scale, international departures will reach 68% of pre-Covid levels in 2022. This is expected to improve to 82% in 2023, and 97% in 2024, before fully recovering by 2025 at 101% of 2019 levels.”

GET YOUR FREE 48-PAGE GCC TRAVEL & HOSPITALITY REPORT HERE

Despite tourism resurfacing in many parts of the world, responsible hygiene protocols should remain a priority to protect workers and communities, as well as travellers.

Should Covid-19 cases begin to rise once more, it may not be possible to sustain travel confidence and in the long term that could impact the anticipated recovery.

For more information, visit www.globaldata.com