Tourism global cost from Covid Crisis

TOURISM GLOBAL COST FROM COVID CRISIS

Six months into the global health pandemic and still the world is still virtually grounded. Summer in the northern hemisphere is ending as schools aim to return to normal, while government assistance is also winding down in many countries, while we begin to again see a rise in cases in many nations. A new report from the UN aims to measure to loss to the world's tourism industry; at least UK£903 billion, or 1.5% of global GDP after 4 months of travel being shut down. If travel is still restricted for 8months, this figure could rise to UK£1.6 trillion and 2.8% of global GDP and if no return to some normality lasts for a year, losses could soar to UK£2.5 trillion, 4.2% of global GDP).

Developing countries such as Jamaica, Kenya and Thailand that rely heavily on tourism will experience the greatest shocks to their economies. However, wealthy countries will also be hit. The USA will lose far more than any other country in dollar terms and nearly double that of China. Other developed countries suffering from tourism's downturn include France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Spain and the UK.

For years global tourism has been increasing, both in value and as a pillar of many countries' economies. International travel and tourism grew by 3.5% in 2019 compared to the previous year. Today, travel and tourism directly accounts for more than 3% of global GDP. When factoring in other industries that benefit from travel and tourism, such as retail and entertainment, tourism indirectly accounts for 10% of the world's economy.

It is thought that 125 million of the 330 million jobs tied to tourism around the world will be lost in 2020, with a return to pre-2020 levels not expected until 2024 at the earliest.

INDONESIA CLOSES DOOR TO TOURISTS UNTIL VACCINE FOUND

Indonesia is to keep its doors closed to tourists until a coronavirus vaccine is found and immunity can be provided.

Indonesia has been conducting final clinical testing for a COVID-19 vaccine candidate. Once clinical testing for about 6½ months is completed, vaccine production will immediately start and offer immunity to the general public.

The recovery of domestic tourism will be the 1st target before reopening to tourists from abroad.

Indonesia is also in negotiations with some countries to set up travel corridors for business travellers. Indonesia has reached agreements with South Korea and the United Arab Emirates for travel bubbles.

Indonesia’s tourism sector is facing potential losses of UK£3 billion from the decline in tourism.

Bali, Indonesia

PARIS AIMS TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE HEALTH CRISIS TO CURB MASS TOURISM

France is one of the world most visited countries and many visitors come from China and the USA and spend their yen and dollars in the capital, Paris. However, the capital's tourism sector cannot count on the French to compensate for the drop in arrivals, despite ideal visiting conditions.

Paris is used to tourists; however, the growing amount of mass tourism, with large groups moving in packs was having a negative effect on the city, its attractions and its citizens. Many in the French capital are calling on the local government to better manage flows. Huge queues, booking in advance essential is no way to experience a country’s wonders. After reopening, the Louvre saw daily visitors reach 7,500-9,000 daily visitors compared to the normal 30,000 to 40,000 people a day in high summer.

ISRAELI TRAVEL AGENCY SELLS HOLIDAYS TO RIXOS HOTELS IN UAE FOLLOWING PEACE DEAL

Following the historic peace deal between Israel and the UAE, Israel travel agent Aviation is to sell holidays to the Turkish owned Rixos hotels in the UAE.

The agreement means that Israel and the United Arab Emirates would normalise diplomatic ties and forge a broad new relationship.

Until now, Israeli tourists have not been allowed to enter the UAE other than business executives with dual nationalities using non-Israeli passports. Israel was also preparing for direct flights over Saudi Arabia.

URBAN AGRICULTURE IN THE CENTER OF PARIS

Quietness in the centre of Paris can be achieved on the roof of Room 6 of the Paris Exhibition Center in Porte de Versailles. Agripolis has been growing fruits and vegetables since July here making it one of the largest urban farms of its kind in the world with a total area of 14,000sq.m.

The produce is grown in long upright plastic bags without soil. The plants grow with bare roots soaked in water which is recycled, saving 90% of the water. The goal is the daily production of a ton of fruits and vegetables.

Next to strawberries, tomatoes and eggplants are grown. It is hoped this will be a role model for other ventures like this.

BELIZE POSTPONES REOPENING OF TOURISM

The Belizean authorities have postponed the date of opening to international tourism. It was planned for August 15. With increased Covid-19 cases the Philip Goldson International Airport would remain closed. No new date has been announced.

TOURISM CAMPAIGN IN POST PANDEMIC GREECE

Tourism professionals are finding fault with Greek National Tourism Organisation’s (GNTO) expensive campaign saying it depicts Greece as an open and safe destination which is at odds with new restrictions being imposed almost daily to deal with the 2 nd wave of the health pandemic. GNTO has budgeted nearly UK£2.7 million to promote its "Greek summer" campaign across both international media and on social media platforms.