Text: Antoni Munar.

Mere speculation is the only way to predict the scenery of the tourism sector for 2021 given the absolute lack of certitude and confidence regarding travel and other services derived therefrom. The pandemic clouds entirely any possible perspective on when and where the recovery of the touristic activity will recover to the point it was before the arrival of this fatal virus.

In spite of the circumstances, we can assert with certainty that within most markets there is an enthusiasm to travel and to enjoy well deserved holidays, mainly impeded by the sanitary restrictions imposed by official authorities of every country, and worsened by the aggravating factor of a lack of harmonization among them. If these restrictions were not imposed, it is safe to say that a large part of society would continue to travel, in spite of the continuous bombardment from the media regarding the evolution and malignancy of the virus.

If the limitations on mobility continue, the economic and social problems derived from this pandemic will be as harmful as the illness itself

A sense of fatigue can be perceived among the population concerning the limitations on mobility and the political decisions which are more lenient every day especially given the slightly more convincing outlook on the vaccine and medication practices. Even if there is a delay in obtaining pharmaceutical solutions, it seems difficult to keep the population handcuffed for much longer, therefore, is seems predictable that a situation of cohabitation with the virus is established.

If the limitations on mobility continue, the economic and social problems derived from this pandemic will be as harmful as the illness itself, which further sustains the views supporting an obliged cohabitation. In light of this, we should hope that governments are capable of confronting the challenge of putting into action and harmonizing their decisions on an international level so that the connectivity between countries becomes once again a reality. It is true that some sectors of society might still be reluctant to travelling, but this will slowly disappear in time once a new normality is redeemed.

It is also true that many domestic economies will be limited in their possibilities to travel, given the economic downturn they have suffered. However, surely companies which offer touristic services will come up with options for all budgets, with the objective of reactivating their business. In conclusion, instead of persisting on the unease which we are being consumed by, it is best to focus on a more positive perspective.