The year 2021 is fast approaching, and it is a time for reflection. This year was filled with uncertainty and we had to adapt with whatever was thrown at us. Now that we have witnessed the full effects of the global pandemic and what it’s done to the world as we know it, it’s time to predict what the future of tourism in 2021 will look like.
The World Less Travelled – Will Tourism Survive?
In just a span of a few months, the tourism industry came tumbling down. Due to this, many lost their jobs and a lot of businesses had to shut its doors forever. Even though it was a tough time for most, other businesses adapted with the change and chose to do things differently. It was a trying time, but this is not the end of tourism.
Tourism Predictions and Trends for 2021
By 2021, the rest of the industry will probably adapt to the new reality that is the travel and tourism industry. Here are some of our predictions for the future.
Rise in Private Transportation
Before covid, inexpensive travel methods were the rife. But due to restrictions, travel bans and social distancing, things have changed. This shift could mean that there will be a rise in private transportation and travel. Instead of taking crowded domestic flights, travellers might opt for taking private jets or make use of rental cars and road trips instead.
Decline in Business Travel
Large gatherings and events should still be avoided at all costs. Many business conferences, seminars, and other special events had to be postponed or cancelled this year. The innovators in the industry adapted with the times and 2020 saw an increase in digital events. More and more people chose to conference call their events instead.
The Year of Local Travel
We will always have Paris, so why not choose Parys instead? Even though international travel bans have been lifted in South Africa, many other countries haven’t opened their borders yet. Those who have wanderlust will travel locally instead. And because the year had such a strain on many people’s mental health, they would want a change of scenery too.
The End of Mass Tourism?
The collapse of international travel took a toll on many countries and services that usually benefitted from mass tourism. Airlines laid off some of their staff, travel agencies and tour operators closed, and so did other businesses. Only time, supply and demand will tell if travelling will become more expensive. This could also influence mass tourism.
Is it Still Worth it to Study Tourism?
Many businesses suffered major losses in 2020. But that doesn’t mean it is the end of travel or the tourism industry. In fact, leaders in the industry will welcome great new ideas to revive tourism.
There are still opportunities for tourism professionals and guesthouse managers today. While it is unclear what the future has in store, experts believe that tourism will only fully recover in 2022.
This means that if you enrol, you can experience a major industry shift. There’s also a possibility of you being part of implementing new ideas that could change the industry.
Is Your Future at Stake?
Only you can answer this question. So choose wisely. Choose our distance learning tourism and guesthouse courses if you want to be part of the new age of tourism.
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