  Those in positions
of leadership and influence have recognized the
importance of tourism for jobs, economies and
rebuilding trust.
- A.M. Costa Rica wire services illustrative photo. |
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 Published Wednesday, August 19, 2020 The
safe reopening of tourism
is possible, say specialists By the A.M. Costa Rica wire services According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) the cost of the restrictions on travel placed in response to the covid-19 pandemic is there for all to see. Between January and May, the sudden and rapid fall in tourist arrivals cost an estimated $320 billion. That’s three times greater than the impact of the Great Recession of 2007-2009 on our sector – and this is just for the first five months of the year, UNWTO said in its statement. The re-opening of borders to tourism is a welcome relief to millions who depend on our sector. But this alone is not enough, especially in view of recent announcements and measures which seem further and further away from the international coordination that UNWTO has been calling for since the pandemic erupted. "In these uncertain times, people around the world need strong, clear and consistent messages. What they don’t need are policy moves which ignore the fact that only together are we stronger and able to overcome the challenges we face," said the specialized agency in its statement. Those in positions of leadership and influence have recognized the importance of tourism for jobs, economies and rebuilding trust. This is only the first step. "Now, they must do everything they can to get people travelling again, following and implementing all the protocols which are part of the new reality," they said. According to UNWTO, governments have a duty to put the health of their citizens first. However, they also have a responsibility to protect businesses and livelihoods. For too long, and in too many places, the emphasis has overly focused on the former. And we are now paying the price. "It doesn’t have to be this way. As a sector, tourism has a long history of adapting and responding to challenges head-on," they said. In recent weeks, global tourism has led the way in finding and implementing solutions that will help people adapt to the new reality as everyone waits for a vaccine that could be months away. Rapid but rigorous testing at ports and airports, tracing and tracking apps have the potential to drive the safe reopening of tourism, "all of which builds on the learning curve of the behaviour of individuals and societies during these difficult past months," the organization said in its statement. ---------------------- Do you think it is time for reopening tourism services? We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com |
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