This is not the type of distancing that travel inspires. An industry where people intermingle and share culture is at odds with the type of restricted movement and stay at home policies shaping what seems to be the new normal for weeks, if not months, to come.
In the midst of a crisis we can rethink the rules
Doug Lansky, a Sweden-based destination management expert who tested positive for COVID-19, believes destinations have an opportunity to rethink how they use technology and tourism modeling to better understand how to manage their cities and attractions once some semblance of order resumes. After learning that he'd contracted the coronavirus, he was a guest on InPhocus, where he gave an account of his experience and, secondly, share his perspective on the current climate for destinations and what could (or should) happen next.
Florence, Italy-based Giancarlo Carniani, manager of three properties in the city and president of Confindustria Alberghi Firenze, the region’s hotel association says the situation is difficult to imagine for those yet to experience it (many soon will, sadly). Carniani is also already thinking about what comes next - not only for his business but also the entire way his part of the industry may operate in the future.
The rules are going to be rewritten, it would be safe to say.
When cities end their lockdowns and people will be allowed to start roaming the streets again, they will become more interested than ever in discovering their city and the local area. Much because some restrictions might still be in place. For instance, traveling abroad might be limited due to safety issues. As such, local/domestic travel will remain the only viable option for travel.
