The world in quarantine: The consequences for tourism

With several weeks in confinement for the majority of us around the world, little by little, everything is starting to reorganize. For us, travellers, tourists, tourism professionals, this crisis has, and continues to have, an unprecedented impact on our daily lives, our way of thinking and acting. Given the unprecedented scale of the crisis and its rapid evolution, it is still difficult to estimate the real and definitive impact of COVID-19 but in this article, the world in quarantine: the consequences for tourism, we can already take note of certain realities, consequences and solutions!   [caption id="attachment_17033" align="aligncenter" width="675"] For several months the largest capitals of South America were empty.[/caption]    

The first consequences for tourism sector

In recent years, tourism has been used for strong growth. In 2019, there were 1.5 billion tourists on Earth! Being an experiential activity based on the interaction between people and destinations, tourism is one of the sectors most affected by this global crisis. According to the first forecasts of the World Tourism Organization, the first consequences for tourism are the following:

• A 30% drop in international tourist arrivals...
• 5 to 7 years Losses in number of tourists
• A loss of tourism revenue ranging from 300 to 450 billion USD 

  These figures are of course due to the need to carry out quarantine and to respect our individual responsibility for the safety of all, but also to the measures taken by countries around the world in response to the spread of COVID-19. Between January and May 2020, nearly 96% of the world's destinations imposed restrictions on travel: 

• Some apply preventive measures such as placing tourists in isolation for a period of time, requiring medical certificates.
• Others stop issuing visas, partially or totally suspend flights.
• Some opt for travel restrictions according to the nationality of tourists and their origin. 
• Some of them close their borders partially or totally without derogation

Some countries still continue to apply these restrictions, however, little by little, these measures are evolving in order to resume some activity.   We all find ourselves unable to travel, having to postpone our desire to travel the world until tomorrow. With the first positive environmental consequences that we noticed during the first weeks of confinement, we become aware, day after day, that not everything is black or white! It is therefore time to think about tomorrow's tourism, about our next trips and how to make them happen.   Tips: don't miss our 6 things to do in quarantine when you're a soul traveller    

A threat that turns into an opportunity?

For several years now, tourism has been encountering certain issues and problems with which tourism professionals are confronted and in which travellers and tourists are becoming more involved. We refer to "over-tourism" in certain European destinations and which also affects the whole world, such as Rio de Janeiro in Brazil and Machu Picchu in Peru, as references in South America. And also the environmental problems caused by tourist activity around the globe. The spread of COVID-19 and its consequences for tourism have temporarily put its problems on hold, and the time we have invites us to question consumer practices. No, we will not stop travelling, but we will travel differently. This global pandemic that we characterize as a threat can thus be transformed into an opportunity, giving us a second chance to travel and discover our most beautiful destinations around the world, and better.    Tips: Discover the 9 natural attractions in South America that preserve the biodiversity of the continent and the world to give you ideas for your next trips!   [caption id="attachment_17034" align="aligncenter" width="675"] The Sacred Machu Picchu will reopen with new travel restrictions / Photo: Canva Pro[/caption]    

3. A different way to travel

This progressive awareness in recent years has led many of us to take eco-responsible measures in the way we travel. Sustainable and innovative solutions invite us to respect the identity of the territories, their ecosystem and their sustainable development through several forms of tourism: ecotourism, responsible tourism, green tourism, community tourism, cultural tourism, creative tourism, slow tourism etc. These new forms of travelling around the world encourage us to energize and support the quality of life of the inhabitants while enhancing our travel experiences and making them memorable through this human and responsible value.   Tips: read our article on tips to be a responsible traveller and help preserve the planet.   [caption id="attachment_17031" align="aligncenter" width="675"] Community-based tourism enables local populations to protect and share their culture and natural resources. / Photo: Canva Pro[/caption]    

Daytours4u at your side

At Daytours4u we are aware of the stakes of tourism and its development by offering you a complete catalogue of tours and activities. Our goal is to offer you the best of South America: its authenticity and its warm, exciting, surprising and sensual character! Visits to indigenous communities, ecological tours in the continent's must-see destinations and eco-responsible activities in its most beautiful natural and cultural riches. From the warmth of the Caribbean to the vastness of Patagonia: we work with the best professionals on the continent to accomplish our mission, that of making you fall in love with this land, just as much as we love it!    Travel Tips: we will accompany you to satisfy your desire to discover South America when you travel tomorrow. Follow our content on our most beautiful destinations on Facebook and Instagram.   [caption id="attachment_17032" align="aligncenter" width="675"] Ecological tours are offered in the most beautiful destinations in South America. / Photo: Canva Pro[/caption]    

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By: Tiffany Flour, traveller soul and web content editor for Daytours4u.