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Barriers to international movement
While short-haul traffic is recovering, global tourism will remain relatively low compared to pre-pandemic levels.
Global tourism recovery
Expected Growth in 2023
Source: Economist Intelligence Unit
Today, the virus represents a lower risk but other factors restrict global travel. During the past months, Baltic states and other countries have tightened their policies to cope with increasing visa applications by Russians. Rejections and delays are also affecting a considerably high number of Schengen visa applications in other countries.
Border controls within the Schengen Area will be further enforced with the launch of ETIAS. However, the free movement area will expand with Croatia joining from 1 January 2023, and Romania and Bulgaria finalising their membership. The new ASEAN visa will also finally facilitate travel within 10 Southeast Asian countries.
In 2006, the average passport only entitled citizens to travel to around 50 countries. Today a typical passport enables visa-free travel to around 90 countries.
Source: Skift
Costs will severely limit travel throughout 2023, particularly high airfares and hotel rates, as well as convenience and technology. Consumers want to plan, book and manage trips through unique, safe and technological solutions.
Cost increases related to travel
Source: The Business Travel Magazine
Finally, climate change’s impact on the travel industry is growing, with more frequent and lasting disruptions from major storms. Sustainable tourism, in growing demand in bookings, can potentially remedy the lull in international travel. Environmental corporate travel policies may limit business travel, amid efforts to achieve emission-reduction goals.
Priorities for travellers
Source: Business Travel Magazine
Multiple factors will continue to pose several challenges for travellers, governments and private companies in the industry.
By Claudia Gualdi
