The COVID-19 era has presented a huge test for the Tourism and Hospitality sectors, noting both sectors have taken a BIG hit on their businesses. The survival and recovery of the Tourism Industry is largely going to be dependant on how the enterprises in tourism and hospitality are able to harness or cultivate more meaningful partnerships and close working relations.
It’s a known secret that the tourism sector relies on the hospitality sector for both domestic and international tourism; the tourism industry focuses on the travel arrangements for tourists, but necessary services such as accommodation and food are provided by the hospitality industry.
The Hospitality sector , as well , is largely dependant on the Tourism sector. A superb remote location abroad could be relatively unknown for starters, but once its appeal has been discovered by tourists, it may start to draw attention. The lodges and hotels in the surrounding area would then grow to accommodate the increase in tourists. More in flow of tourists translates into more business for the hospitality industry.
Irrespective of their purpose for travel (business or leisure), all tourists require basic services. Therefore, first and foremost, the tourism industry needs the hospitality industry to sustain itself. Simply put, the two go hand in hand, and will depend on each other for survival in the COVID-19 era.
To put this into context, a recent survey by Travel and Tourism News Worldwide (TTN) revealed that 67% of UAE travellers say their holidays start by the time they reach the airport. These statistics underline that the hospitality tourists receive in the airport is a fundamental part of their whole holiday experience. Therefore this further reinforces the need for a more closer working relationship between the Airport Authorities and the Tourism Travel trade to ensure proper communication and Implementation of COVID-19 guidelines and safety protocols that are in favour of tourists and Tourism in general.
By Eddy Kirya – Msc. Tourism & Hospitality Management ( MUK)
The writer is Founder & President at EYALAMA Consulting & CEO at Travel 256
