More tourists visit Asia for travel and vacation second only to Europe. Asia has been best for budget and luxury travelers alike to take your travel to the next level. With diversity and adventure options like no other place, the numbers were ever-increasing prior to Coronavirus. COVID 19 has negatively affected the tourism industry and things will not be the same. Thus, future of Tourism in Asia post Covid is uncertain. It is no secret that health is the top priority worldwide but shutting down the economy is no good for anybody. It is important to find the balance between the two for world tourism. Once the pandemic is under control, Asia will be ready to provide answers for travel-seeking individuals.
The world travel industry will witness all-time low tourists that can result over a hundred million jobs at risk. Although the government of different nations has provided necessary relief, it might not be normal for a couple more years. Similar is the situation with small and medium businesses all around Asia depending on International tourism for the main revenue. As per the studies, over 17 % of the small and 11 % of medium-sized tourism-based businesses set to either declare bankruptcy or completely shut down due to the pandemic. With an overall GDP falling, these industries needs to be up and running for a healthy local and national economy.
Asia is in the recovery path from COVID 19 and apart from a couple of nations, others are planning to resume travel. Budget travel must be in many people’s minds rather than canceling your vacation plans. Asia for both health and other reasons will be better to visit than other places. Some of the European destinations are open but as a travel, bubble allowing the citizens of certain groups of nations and vice versa. However, for now be patient as Asia can be a better choice once the internal borders reopens.
Direct Impact of COVID 19 in Asia
With the ban on most of the international travel and limited flight tourism in Asia has come to an unforeseen halt. Apart from the major financial downfall, multiple tourism-based businesses and institutions shall affect the most. Most of the major destinations around this continent must be ready to brace the impact. While smaller and less stable nations with the tourism-based economy can crumble. With a whole tourist season without many tourists, the Impact might last for some years here.
Airports are mostly ghost towns and in many places, only a few airlines are operating at least frequency of travelers. Domestic transport, rentals, hotels, bars, restaurants, theme parks, and other major entities are directly affected. Although the concept of travel bubbles are introduced in different places, it is less successful than expected. With misinformation and wavering conditions, tourism is deeply affected even in some of the safe zones which coped well with the pandemic.
Asia recent with restarting the Tourism
Travel and Tourism have played a major role in decreasing unemployment and poverty in Asia. Having said that, the importance of restarting the tourism industry is of paramount importance for the economy. However, haste is no option when the health of travelers as well as citizens are at stake. Asia is following these major steps for restarting Tourism in major parts of the continent.
* Opening international Borders
Due to the pandemic and attempt to control its spread most countries had closed its borders for travelers. About 23 countries have opened their borders for travelers from certain countries and almost half of them will open for all. Apart from these, there are about a dozen more nations ready to open their borders after receiving green zone recognition from WHO. By the end of September, almost all except the red-zone countries will open their borders for travelers around the world.
* Controlling the flow and management of incoming tourists
The concept of travel bubbles has certainly helped in controlling the flow and management of tourist in Asia. A group of countries, mostly close to each other have formed a bubble to let their citizens’ visit for business or tourism. This bubble is set to grow including safer destinations, finally reopening for all. A great suggestion for incoming tourists are to follow a few additional protocols to avoid crowds and better management.
* Limiting the travel options with serious health measures
You can’t still travel from a nation to a safe place if your country is not considered safe. It might require several medical procedures which will result in better safety of the travelers. From the simplest things like checking your health condition at the airport to isolation for a certain period, most countries in Asia are taking these health measures seriously.
* Fast response with eye out for possible risks
In case of any red flags during any part of the travel activity, most of these Asian destinations are ready to act. There are few examples of good tracking of possible COVID patients and even treating them before their return of the home country. Social distancing and other health measures are suggested and in some places, it is legally required for travelers. With monitoring in destinations, a possible risk for locals or travelers here is set to be handled well. There are few added protocols or social norms for both travelers and operators for safety reasons in many Asian countries.
Asia after the virus is eradicated for tourists
Most of the safe countries in Asia have opened its borders for business and professional travelers. Students and tourists will be given access soon for the visitors after the situation is normal. Soon after the virus is gone, it might take some time for the business to continue as it was before. One might predict a slight hike in costs which will soon return to normal after the economy is better. Asia can’t stay away from adventure-loving travelers so in some time the tourism industry is certain to restore here.
A couple of countries might start tourism late as there might be other significant things to manage. Travelers on a positive side can experience an improved healthcare system throughout Asia. Travel volume might be low but it will take its level after a year or more. Tourists can now explore the destinations in better natural and managed conditions after the virus.
What comes next?
Well, to say nothing good will come to tourism after the pandemic will be wrong. Many experts believe that the industry will be normal after some period, and it might even result in better travel habits around the world. Change will come and one has to adapt to make the most of this nightmare. Although the harm might be significant, the recovery in the environment with less carbon emission and pollution worldwide is good news for all. Travel might be a bit different but as long as there are thrill-seeking enthusiastic individuals, this industry will recover and spear towards growth.
Some believe that the pandemic will reset the tourism for the better as well. The predictions on the end of some long-running syndicate while the rise of self-sufficient local business. One thing for sure that it will take some time and effort for anyone to survive and come back from the pandemic. But once done and dusted, the industry will regrow and be there serving the travelers and aiding the local economy once more.
Your guide to Travel in these complicated times
There is still some uncertainty to when everything will be back to normal. The main tip for you is not to rush anything or any vacation. Try booking for latter times and find the perfect destination for that period. If we are talking about Asia then 2-3 months from now is perfect for spending some time trekking in the Himalayas. After that, you might want to select some warmer destinations like Vietnam and Maldives. For immediate plans, update yourself for the norms of entering the nation if it’s open for tourism. Last but not least, always be prepared for different scenarios which might extend your stay there.
The best thing that we can do now is to stay positive and plan for the future. Asia as a whole has hands-down best places to at least be once in your lifetime, so a plan to be here after the virus is gone is a smart decision for travelers.