The pandemic has taught the world never to take the freedom of movement for granted. Though technology allows work and family meetings, face-to-face meetings are necessary for deep relationships. The pandemic also affected the communication of travelers: you will not always be able to bring a souvenir from another country to your friend, but you can play online games together and, as prizes, give each other something from the so-called Book of Oz. While the pandemic’s duration remains unknown, one thing is for sure: traveling after COVID-19 will never be the same. Expect the post-pandemic travel changes.
Increased Domestic Tourism
Coronavirus may have shut down hotels and major attractions, but tourism is gaining momentum as prolonged home stays increase the need for traveling. What’s more, individuals have been saving throughout the lockdown to fund their vacations when governments ease travel restrictions. To boost the dwindling international tourism revenue, travel agents have discounted domestic visits. By revealing hidden gems, these staycations raise local tourism confidence to sustain the industry in the long run.
Road trips might also increase post-pandemic. According to a past UIC survey, more people will ditch planes for the road after the epidemic subsides. 59% of the participants considered traveling by personal vehicles the safest. This was followed by 46% who preferred traveling by private bike and 42% who chose to walk.
Moreover, travelers are more cautious when traveling abroad and dependent on governments for movement directives because they’re unsure of what they’ll find, leisure travelers are skeptical about booking flights to popular destinations. By traveling locally, individuals will use these trips to check off their backyard bucket list. For example, they could climb mountains or cycle interstate.
Sustainable Travel
Coronavirus has reduced global emissions thanks to traveling bans, lockdowns, and industry closures. The pandemic has stalled planes to reduce air pollution and decongested beaches allowing wildlife to roam. The downside is the environmental bounce back is temporary as governments work to revive struggling industries. To recover profits, airlines have asked authorities to delay measures that counter pollution by limiting air travel. The question is whether governments will stick to their environmental commitments or steer economies to normalcy.
But it doesn’t end with governments. Concerned citizens might also advocate for responsible traveling policies that prioritize the ecosystem over profits. Don’t be surprised by the introduction of fly-free days in your country’s traveling schedule. The pandemic is also an opportunity for introspection, increasing your appreciation. For instance, you can take one long annual trip instead of traveling after every two weeks to reduce your carbon footprint.
Airline Safety-Profit Balance
Although the pandemic hasn’t halted airline operations, carriers have decreased passenger numbers by blocking some seats and reducing ticket sales. Furthermore, passengers and crew should wear masks, get a traveling COVID-19 test, fill health questionnaires, and receive temperature checks. This goes together with limiting luggage capacities and reduced in-flight food service.
Deregulation may slash the flying cost per mile, but traveling is still expensive, with fewer passengers on board. Carriers may also charge for seat allocation, baggage, and boarding privileges. But the expenses aren’t limited to traveling. Hotels and other entertainment spots might increase their charges to compensate for the low headcount. A carrier’s post-pandemic success will depend on its ability to reduce unnecessary costs without hindering revenue generation. It’s no good withdrawing an expense if the airline removes services customers are willing to buy.
Rising Home Rental Demand
With remote jobs going mainstream, more people are traveling to combine work and pleasure. But this trend will benefit home rentals more than hotels because of affordability. Airbnb with garages and kitchens are more suitable for extended stays than hotels restricting you to outside restaurants and room service. Again, vacation rentals are less crowded and closer to home. That way, you can drive to your destination instead of flying.
Human contact is also crucial when traveling in 2021. Although some guests want privacy, others prefer connecting with their Airbnb hosts to kill loneliness. Your host could even recommend the area’s tourist attractions. Because they’re near home, these rentals are opportunities to promote local businesses when traveling.
Conclusion
How will traveling change you? From self-discovery and stress relief to creating memories and acquiring new skills, traveling improves your life’s quality. You also meet new people and strengthen existing relationships. Have you taken a trip amid the Coronavirus threat? Share tips for traveling during COVID-19.
Author bio
Ellen Royce is a great photographer and a travel blogger. The photography tips she has shared here are simply based on what she always does to get great travel pictures with no people in them. She believes that these tips can work for most people out there.
