Forward and upward: What post-pandemic travel will look like

Travel is one of life’s greatest pleasures. This rings true for many Filipinos as we love to explore diverse places, food, and culture, including our own. Now that the entire globe is gradually recovering, what exactly is in store for the Philippines in terms of tourism and its local travelers? The Red Circle spoke to Jaison Yang, President of Travel Warehouse Inc., and gathered insights that Filipino travelers can look forward to as the nation is hopeful for an upward progression.

Although the safety and health guidelines limit our movements in the now normal, Jaison states that the country can’t afford to not open tourism as it is a vital part of our economy. The reality is that there are many people depending on the tourism industry and for it to survive, they have to begin operations as soon as possible. Even if it’s gradual, the important thing is that companies and organizations get a headstart.

Furthermore, Filipinos are aching to go places despite the absence of a vaccine. The Department of Tourism’s latest survey stated that 77% were willing to travel locally once COVID-19 restrictions were lifted. Boracay, Siargao, and Baguio were also on their top list of destinations to visit.

Farm tourism will rise

Boracay will always be on many Filipinos’ list of must-visit places. However, Jaison predicts that farm tourism will emerge as a contender in niche travel activities, particularly in Calabarzon and the north of the National Capital Region (NCR). Since people in Metro Manila can easily drive to these locations, avoiding the bigger risks of air travel, farm tours definitely have potential in becoming the next big thing. Picturesque farms are actually starting to build or refurbish their own accomodation in order to welcome visitors for a short stay.

Innovation is key

So, what happens to hotels, flights, airports, and luggage? Jaison thinks that the use of advanced technology is vital in the coming years. The tourism industry will innovate their services in accordance with a “no touch” policy. Everything will be made available online, from checking in at the airport to the hotel. For airlines, necessary safety measures will be in place before flying to ease the mind of travelers and assure them of their security. Passengers will be able to print their own luggage tag ahead of time, so that they can just drop it off at the airport and minimize physical contact. For hotels, an electronic key will be introduced, so that guests can head straight to their room.

Recovery is a collective effort

As great as it is to anticipate what post-pandemic travel will look like, it is also important to live in the present moment. Jaison says that for now, the virus is still here and we must follow the safety protocols to avoid it from spreading. But not all hope is lost for we can travel in the now normal. His advice? Learn to travel in small groups or better yet, learn to travel alone. The experience may be different, but it can still be fun.

Beyond that, travel operators should also do their best to support local small and mid-size enterprises (SMEs). And in order for them to fulfill this initiative as well as sustain operations in the long run, assistance from the government is needed since the industry is currently on “life support”. We must keep in mind that the nation is in the midst of recovery and everyone must do their part for Philippine tourism to bounce back.

Once a traveler, always a traveler

Jaison shares that although many people’s mindsets have changed thanks to pandemic, they will always have the innate desire to travel. Tourism will take some time to recover, but once a vaccine is available, the industry can regain its confidence. Business travelers will be the first to set off for out of town or overseas trips since it’s essential for not only them, but the economy as well.

Travel is indeed one of life’s greatest pleasures. And for some of us, it is our sanity pill. It’s what makes us feel more alive. It’s what helps us thrive and grow. Because outside of our comfort zone, there’s a whole lot of things waiting to be explored. People we have to meet. Places we have to see. Insights we will only gain when we get out of the little bubble we’re used to.

With the world’s current efforts to recover, we are hopeful for what is to come. Various tourism destinations are beginning to reopen and while we are learning to live with the virus’ presence, we should remain vigilant. Trust that it isn’t going to be like this forever and it shouldn’t. That is at least one hope we can hold onto.

Most of all, let’s be inspired by the next phase of travel. For it is here and it is gradually unfolding right in front of our eyes. As Jaison beautifully puts it, “The world can’t afford to stop tourism. We may be on pause now, but we are not dead.”

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