The global tourism industry, heavily impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, is witnessing a resurgence as countries devise innovative ways to entice travelers back. This article explores the strategies employed by three nations – Greece, Croatia, and Thailand – to revive their tourism sectors while prioritizing safety and fostering confidence in a changed travel landscape.
Experimental Tourism: The Case of Rhodes, Greece
In a bold move to revive its tourism industry, Greece, in collaboration with Dutch authorities and tour operators, embarked on an experimental travel program. Dutch holidaymaker Amy Smolders participated in this pioneering initiative, traveling to Rhodes as part of a controlled group to gauge the feasibility of safe holidays.
“We’re at the airport right now, we did our PCR test… and I think the result is going to be fine,” Smolders shared, capturing the cautious optimism surrounding the resumption of travel.
This pilot program, encompassing around 200 Dutch tourists, showcases a microcosm of the new normal in tourism. Guests at the designated Greek beach resort enjoyed access to amenities like pools and restaurants but adhered to strict safety protocols. These included restricted movement beyond the resort premises, social distancing measures, and a mandatory five-day quarantine upon returning home.
Despite these limitations, the program witnessed overwhelming interest, with approximately 25,000 individuals vying for a spot. This enthusiastic response underscores the pent-up demand for travel and the willingness of tourists to embrace new norms for a chance to vacation again.
Croatia Opens its Doors: Preparing for the Influx
As Europe gradually eases travel restrictions, Croatia anticipates a surge in tourist arrivals, particularly to destinations like the popular resort town of Porec. With a projected influx beginning mid-May, Croatia has been diligently implementing measures to ensure the safety of both visitors and locals.
The country’s proactive approach underscores the understanding that a successful tourism rebound necessitates a delicate balance between economic recovery and public health. By prioritizing safety and preparedness, Croatia aims to position itself as a reliable and desirable destination in the post-pandemic world.
Phuket’s Vaccination Strategy: Aiming for a July Reopening
Once a bustling tourist hub in Southeast Asia, Phuket, Thailand, has felt the pandemic’s impact deeply. However, the island has adopted a proactive strategy centered around vaccination to revitalize its tourism industry.
Phuket aims to administer COVID-19 vaccines to at least 460,000 people, a significant portion of its population, by July 1st. This ambitious vaccination drive is intended to pave the way for the island’s reopening to vaccinated international tourists, eliminating the need for quarantine upon arrival.
The presence of an international airport on the island further strengthens Phuket’s position. This allows for controlled entry and movement of tourists, minimizing risks to the rest of Thailand while enabling visitors to explore the island freely.
Adapting to a New Landscape: The Future of Tourism
The approaches adopted by Greece, Croatia, and Thailand illustrate the evolving landscape of global tourism. These countries recognize the need to adapt to new realities and prioritize health and safety without compromising the travel experience.
While challenges undoubtedly remain, these innovative strategies demonstrate resilience and a commitment to charting a path toward recovery. As the world navigates the new normal, the tourism industry’s ability to adapt and innovate will determine its future success.
