At the peak of the coronavirus pandemic, every single country in the world had implemented travel restrictions, according to the United Nations’ World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO). But now that we are finally moving towards some level of normalcy, with many of us vaccinated and venturing into other countries once again, what does travelling look like in 2021?
Click start to play today’s holiday and travel-themed Word Search.
Travel accounts for over 10 per cent of the world’s gross domestic product (GDP), according to the UK-based World Travel and Tourism Council. And despite the pandemic bringing it down to 5.5 per cent in 2020, tourism is expected to trend upwards this year, as people become more confident in travelling again.
A report by the Thailand-based Pacific Asia Travel Association found that the most significant factor for consumers when they choose accommodations while travelling, is health and safety precautions taken by the hotel or lodgings. It is also the main driving point behind the travel destinations they choose to visit.
In the same report, about 73 per cent of travellers looked for the opportunity to avoid crowded places when travelling. It’s why nature reserves, like national parks and beach properties, are benefiting from increased demand. In such spots, tourists are able to spend time outdoors, and have limited contact with others, while still enjoying the novelty of exploring a new destination.
But just like travellers have certain expectations, some countries are making it clear that they have certain standards that need to be met by those who are visiting, too. For instance, New Zealand is asking visitors to engage in sustainable, responsible practices, when it markets its tourism destinations.
The nation’s Tiaki Promise urges travellers to the country to pledge that their behaviour will help “care for land, sea and nature”. Tiaki means “to care and protect” in Te Reo Maori. Using the #TiakiPromise hashtag, the country’s official tourism board is spreading the message that any travellers who visit must travel safely and act as guardians of the country’s land, waterways and oceans.
Where do you plan to go on holiday? Play today’s Word Search and let us know at games@gulfnews.com.
