With COVID-19 becoming the new norm and vaccinations in place, venue owners can expect a boom in the travel space in upcoming months and years.
Many are particularly optimistic about the prospect of travelling again. You might be wondering why people are still planning to go abroad when we’re in the middle of a pandemic?
Here’s your answer—revenge travel.
In simple terms, revenge travel is travelling with vengeance and eagerness to satisfy the travel itch and make up for cancelled plans.
New research spanning 28,000+ travellers across 28 countries and territories reveals the travel hopes and anticipation. Some key trends include:
- 71% of global travelers would rather go on vacation in 2021 than find true love
- Two thirds (66%) feel more hopeful about traveling in 2021 thanks to news of successful COVID-19 vaccines
- 64% say travel is more important to them now than before the pandemic
This means revenge travellers are ready to spend more money and even be bold enough to explore locations that didn’t cross their minds pre-pandemic.
An AirDNA report finds that demand for Airbnb and VRBO bookings in small cities and rural areas is up 62% from the summer of 2019. It’s no doubt that there has been an increase in travel bookings for the 2021-2022 holiday season. The majority are waiting for travel restrictions to ease to reconcile with their family and friends.
Research from Booking revealed that 17% of global travelers plan to use travel credits/vouchers from cancelled trips instead of requesting a refund and the same number will buy vouchers for family and friends for them to use when it’s safe to travel again.
Popular international destination searches from U.S. travellers on Skyscanner this year include Singapore, Tokyo, London, and Madrid. And highly anticipated spaces include beaches, mountains, and camping trips.
If no strict measures are in place, social distancing can be easily overlooked, especially in crowded places and enclosed spaces. Another worrying factor is not wearing a mask as the rules are different in each country. Others have expressed concern over this with 73% would accept having to wear a face mask when traveling, with 64% going as far as supporting a ‘no mask no travel’ ban (unless exempt). Two thirds (66%) would be willing to only travel in small groups of 2-6 people.
Safety is still the top priority when one’s travelling —vaccinated or not.
Having a hygiene protocol in place is a key element for any venue looking to receive potential travellers and prepare for future in-person events. However, having these policies is not enough on its own. It’s about you communicating the safety protocols to as many people as possible.
For instance, self-service buffets are not a viable option if you want to take precautions. Seated dining with order services is now the way to go. Another option could be boxed meals arranged for guests.
Thus, it’s crucial for venue owners to not only be more proactive in improving their cleaning processes but upholding gold standards of health and safety measures.
