As the world changes drastically, whether due to the threat of global warming or the COVID-19 pandemic, it adversely changes our lives through impacting global order and the world economy.
If the threat of global warming has more of a delayed influence, the COVID-19 pandemic had instantly affected all the spheres of our lives since day one. By reason of the global shutdowns and travel restrictions, the Travel & Tourism sector suffered a loss of almost $4.5 trillion, according to WTTC’s latest annual research.
Tourism was one of the world’s most prosperous sectors before the pandemic hit. It accounted for 7% of global trade in 2019, according to a UNWTO report.
The pandemic has taken a great toll on tourism, as its contribution to global Gross domestic product (GDP) has dropped by 49.1% last year. At the same time, the overall global economy dropped by just 3.7%, which goes into no comparison with what losses the Travel&Tourism sector took, the WTTC study finds.
But due to the multiple international borders opening in 2021, the sector can restore its former glory.
WTTC’s latest research shows the sector’s contribution to the global economy could reach $8.6 trillion this year, just 6.4% behind pre-pandemic levels. It can also create 58 million more jobs this year, which again is one percent below 2019 levels, as WTTC CEO Julia Simpson says:
“Over the past two years, the global Travel & Tourism sector has suffered tremendous losses. 2022 is poised for a strong recovery if governments continue to open up and remove restrictions to travel. Our sector could recover more than 58 million jobs and generate $8.6 trillion, which would boost economic recovery around the world”.
The results of WTTC research show that COVID-19 is transforming the industry through changing people’s behavior making them adapt to new realities. Now travelers are more inclined toward familiar, predictable, trusted, and even low-risk tourism.
Tourism expert Cari Gray shared her thoughts on travel trends in 2022 in her latest interview to Forbes magazine, where she pointed out that COVID-19 has impacted people’s behavior regarding their travel preferences but in different ways:
“For some, it confirmed they want to spend valuable time off with friends or family. So now those travelers want adjoining suites or big house rentals (fully staffed of course!). But some people want buzz and have missed it badly! They want to meet new, like-minded people and socialize”.
Cari says, people now are more concerned about their safety and health care when booking a trip, which is clearly fueled by the pandemic.
After being locked up for so long, people now are discovering new activities within active travel like zip lines, hiking through a coconut plantation or rock climbing. According to Cari Gray, multi-sport trips are gaining popularity.
Popular travel destination in 2022, where to spend the Summer Holiday
From travel trends to most popular travel destinations. Here’s a list of top 5 Holiday hotspots that are topping the charts this summer.
1. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
This February, the Dominican Republic welcomed a record-breaking tourist number. Over 566,000 arrivals, and the majority was from North America. It’s the second-biggest record in its history, the data found.
The Dominican Republic is known for its warm, hospitable people and paradisiacal beaches. Punta Cana is one of the most popular vacation destinations, with many tourists saying it’s the most ideal place to stay in the country. No wonder, as the resort town was intended for travelers. All-inclusive resort offers you 11 beaches to enjoy.
The best time to visit the Dominican Republic is in April and May when the peak tourist season has ended and the hurricane season hasn’t started.
2. Marmaris, Turke
Located in southwestern Turkey on the Mediterranean coast, it’s an undisputed holiday hotspot. This place is made for beach lovers. While there, taking a day trip to see beautiful natural pools around Pamukkale is a must.
3. Algarve, Portugal
On Portugal’s western and southern coast, you can find breathtaking golden beaches. This is one of the sunniest regions in Europe, with best surfing spots like Peniche and Nazare. Costa Vicentina Natural Park is another surfing heaven, making it a top spot for surfers. Natural beauty and delicious cuisine will take you by surprise and make you promise to come back again.
4. Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town is the best South Africa vacation destination, attracting tourists like a magnet. It doesn’t matter whether you’re traveling with your family, friends or alone, it will amaze you anyway. Visiting Cape Town gives a unique opportunity to discover the secrets of Table Mountain, which is one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World.
5. Paphos, Cyprus
Cyprus itself is a paradise of wild nature, stunning beaches and delicious cuisine. Situated on the south-west coast of Cyprus, Paphos is a perfect place for families and romantic couples.
Paphos is known to be the birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love. That’s at least what urban legends say. Located on the shore of the Mediterranean Sea, Paphos is in the list of UNESCO World Heritage. If you plan to visit Paphos during your vacation, we recommend you to take a boat tour to enjoy Blue Lagoon - one of the most isolated, but at the same time fascinating beaches in Cyprus with astonishing views and crystal blue water. This place should definitely be on your travel list.
