The years 2020 and 2021 have been incredible for everyone. It changed lifestyles, working arrangements, relationships and the world itself. If there is one business sector most disrupted by pandemic years, it is the tourism industry. The world has come to a standstill due to COVID-19, and some countries have recently opened their borders to travelers after two long years. Some remain closed. The domestic and international tourism sectors have suffered losses due to restrictions and lockdowns. However, they hope that as the curbs ease, tourists will slowly arrive, eager to be there again. The journey can wait or cannot wait – it’s up to the spender. Here are some tips on why they should go with the flow or wait for nature’s call.

ten
There is such a thing called Revenge Travel

Months of confinement and restrictions have drained the energy of many people. Who would have thought that staying at home could also be a struggle? If it’s not cabin fever, maybe it’s literal homesickness. When the lockdowns were lifted, many people started going out to meet friends and relatives, making up for lost moments, time and opportunities. As for the tourists, they did what they do best but this time upped the ante: the revenge trip. This is not about splurging on the money saved during lockdown or being careless after restrictions are relaxed. It is the strong urge to go again to places to recharge and, above all, to feel free. RELATED: Here’s how flying is expected to change after Covid-19

9
Let go and let the stress go

Even though some people were spared the immediate effect of the pandemic – such as testing positive for the coronavirus – no one was immune to its negative effects, especially during the peak when restrictions were imposed. At that time, many people’s stress levels were skyrocketing and their mental health suffered greatly. For some, it takes longer to recover, but one thing that can help them relax is travel. It’s about hitting the restart button and, along the way, collecting new memories, in addition to having a new outlook on life. Going out means letting it all out, then soaking up new perspectives.

8
Opportunities abound as tourism restarts

The pandemic has forced many tourist attractions to rest from the traveler crowds. Tourist traps and those who don’t adhere to sustainable tourism have had their much needed break not only because of the crowds, but also because of the environmental disturbance caused by tourism. As tourism restarts, it offers travelers things that have always been there but are new to many. For example, in Hong Kong, pink dolphins once again paid a visit. In the Philippines, meanwhile, the waters of famed Boracay have become cleaner and clearer. It is proof that a break is always good and that it offers tourists the opportunity to live new experiences.

7
It’s a good time to find your loved ones

The pandemic has robbed many of their beloved social lives. Remote work has been implemented and as such, night outings have disappeared. Distance learning has also been imposed, depriving students of many school moments. Ultimately, many get-togethers and bonding sessions with friends and relatives were canceled. Traveling is an ideal way to reunite with those who matter and those who stayed behind during the most difficult times. Surely, crammed in with loved ones, tourists will only have good stories to tell. RELATED: 10 Most Remote But Beautiful Places On Earth

6
Do not miss the interesting offers

Those who want to haggle will be satisfied. When the travel bans were imposed, another sector that was hit hard was aviation. However, when everything slowly returned to normal, they quickly served customers. Low fares were a thing in Asia to encourage tourists to return. In addition to hotel discounts, some places offered free admission to attractions, free coronavirus testing, reduced taxes and numerous promotions for travelers. Some offers may still be available, and it’s always a good thing to check them out.

WHY WAIT

5
There are always health problems

Besides zero-waste tourism, there’s an additional “new normal” in travel, but for the health-conscious, that might not be enough. Even though the number of COVID-19 in some destinations is already decreasing, the threat of the disease remains high. Health authorities are one with the economic sector in saying it is safe to reopen, but as some might argue, tourists should travel at their own risk. Travel is a concern, especially for those who live with an elderly person or an immunocompromised person, fearful of bringing the virus home. There are, however, ways to protect them from harm. Some tourists, however, don’t want to gamble with their peace of mind.

4
It might be wise to save some money

Possible surges in infections remain high in many parts of the world, particularly after the easing of curbs and mobility returning to pre-pandemic levels. The World Health Organization is still reluctant to ease restrictions further, as vaccination rates are still low in some areas. The uncertainty of it all is not appealing to some potential tourists. It might be a wise decision to wait and save money instead of traveling – especially since there is technically still a global health problem. Who knows what might happen next? Better be prepared if something goes south. RELATED: 10 reasons why remote work is the right choice for you

3
Avoid the crowds

Vengeful travelers may be taking their time to enjoy being back in their playgrounds while enjoying their best days with the promotions and discounts. Add that airfare is cheap, so anyone planning to travel should expect crowded destinations. Of course, the airport is also full of travellers. The desire to be there is high, and it’s best to take a break and think twice if the trip is worth it if the attractions are packed. Those religiously following physical distancing might not be amused by this.

2
Options may still be limited

There are still travel restrictions to certain destinations, and even if tourists successfully complete all requirements, from testing to quarantine, their options could still be limited, especially for the unvaccinated. In Bhutan, for example, tourists are required to self-quarantine for 14 to 21 days, essentially eating on days when guests are expected to travel. Restrictions vary and strict planning is key to avoiding hassle-free travel. Impatient travelers would not find this to be good news. Additionally, there is the uncertainty that specific attractions could be closed or impose severe restrictions.

1
Are the destinations safe and respecting the new normal?

It’s not attractive to travel if the destination hasn’t put something new in place to keep customers safe, like health protocols. The pandemic has changed the way people travel, so attractions must follow the new normal. With many questions regarding the destination, tourists should have a checklist. As such, due diligence has become part of travel planning. Taking vacations shouldn’t be work if the destinations are safe. After all, traveling is about rest and relaxation, not stress and confusion. NEXT: Need a change of scenery? These are the best places to work remotely in New York

Read more

About the Author