The COVID-19 pandemic halted the growth and development of international tourism. With most countries closing their borders in March 2020, the industry hit an almost standstill position.
However, with a better understanding of the virus, several countries reopened their borders in 2021. As we enter 2022, more countries decide to reopen their borders after almost two years.
The international tourism industry is rising through the ashes
The world tourism sector is all set to recover from the hard-hit wounds caused by the pandemic. Despite how the year started because of the spread of Omicron, countries didn’t lose hope and still decided to reopen international borders.
The WHO made it clear that the virus will stay with us, and travel restrictions do not help curb the transmission. Thus, countries may lift the travel ban to revive the world economy.
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Predictions by the World Travel and Tourism Council
As more countries are reopening in 2022, the World Travel and Tourism Council has predicted that international tourism could generate USD 8 trillion this year. The hopes are that 2022 can bring the world tourism industry closer to its pre-pandemic performance. The numbers expected this year is only 6.4% below the pre-pandemic levels.
Source: © Artmann-witte | Megapixl.com
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Countries reopening their borders in 2022
Australia: Australia plans to reopen its international borers from February 21 onwards. The country has had one of the strictest COVID-19 restrictions globally. However, after almost two years, Australia is all set to open its arms for international tourism once again. All the vaccinated tourists would be welcomed in the country. Unvaccinated people would need to apply for health exemptions if any.
New Zealand: Being precautionary, New Zealand has decided to reopen its borders in five phases. Firstly, Australians would be allowed to enter New Zealand in February. And, later in March, eligible workers would be permitted. Additionally, travellers from the UK, the US, Canada, France, etc., would be allowed from July onwards. And, finally, the country would be open for all international travellers from October ahead.
Philippines: The Philippines has become the latest Southeast Asian country to reopen its borders after almost two years. The country reopened its borders on February 10. All vaccinated international travellers would be welcomed. Unvaccinated travellers would need to quarantine in a government facility.
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Bali: Despite the widespread COVID-19 in Bali, the world-famous tourist destination is now open for international travellers. Bali had, although reopened last year in October as well. However, due to the island’s strict restrictions, not many international travellers could travel to Bali that time.
Malaysia: The country has announced the reopening of its international borders from March onwards. According to Malaysia’s Ministry of Health, more than 95% of the country’s population is fully vaccinated. Additionally, global citizens would be asked to quarantine in Malaysia.
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Several European nations like Greece and France are easing out their pandemic restrictions. 2022 is seeing a positive start for tourism revival. However, the recovery is subject to the new variants that may arise in the upcoming months. Thus, the sector needs to build resilience to achieve optimum recovery in 2022.
SOURCE: KALKINE MEDIA
