- Currently, travel restrictions are still in place for many countries and there is high uncertainty on when restrictions will ease. 

Lifting Travel Restrictions

According to Tom Jenkins of the European Tourism Organisation, the outlook for 2024 suggests a shift in post-pandemic travel patterns. While the UK's tourism sector is considered to be performing well, there is a predicted trend of more travelers opting for destinations in Europe. Additionally, there are indications of a potential plateau in tourism demand from the United States for the UK.

2024 UK Tourism Outlook

Following the pandemic, a notable shift in travel patterns has been observed. An example of this trend is the forecast for 2024, which suggests that while UK tourism remains strong, more travelers may choose European destinations, and demand from American tourists for the UK could level off.

Shift in Post-Pandemic Travel Trends

Key priorities and challenges for governments and the tourism sector as it reopens. 

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

- The impact of COVID-19 can be felt throughout the entire tourism ecosystem as tourism is a significant part of many national economies. 
- The tourism sector, on average, contributes 4.4% of GDP and 21.5% of service exports in OECD countries. 
- Tourism directly contributes 6.9% of employment on average in OECD countries. 
- Estimates from the OECD suggest a 60% decline in international tourism in 2020, rising to 80% if recovery is delayed until December. 
- Domestic tourism, which accounts for 75% of the tourism economy in OECD countries, has also been impacted by quarantine measures. However, it is expected to recover more quickly than international tourism and offers the chance to drive recovery in countries where the tourism sector supports many jobs and businesses. 


Tourism Industry 

Figure of the Direct Contribution of Tourism in OECD Countries 

Impact of COVID-19 on Tourism Industry Branches

- COVID-19 has created the need for tourism policy to adopt an integrated governmental approach so that response measures are consistent and complementary to general economic stimulus packages.
- Government assistance efforts include communication campaigns to help prevent the spread of the virus, support to provide flexibility and relief for companies and workers, and actions to help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) adopt new work processes and find new markets. 
- In the U.S., the travel and tourism sector will benefit from a USD 2 trillion economic stimulus package open to all businesses. The package will be delivered through a mix of cash payments, loans, grants, and guarantees. 

Government Response to Support Tourism Industry

Reopening the Tourism Sector 

An organization involved in the European tourism sector, led by CEO Tom Jenkins.

Learn Before

Related

Learn After