The recovery of travel, and the future of millions of people associated with the tourism industry, is still uncertain. As social distancing turns out to be the way to go for many years to come, travel businesses must adapt now for tomorrow.
Pritesh Khare, CEO, India Voyage, a travel startup told IANSlife, that
the travel startup ecosystem is preparing for the new era of travel where everything will be changed and brand-new.
"Businesses will need to be prepared today for tomorrow's travellers, and innovation is truly the need of the hour in order to meet the standard needs of quality travel. We cannot say for sure when it will all restart but we need to be prepared for the future of travelling," said Khare.
He added that these changes are permanent only until the vaccine arrives. "We might also see a hike in the prices of accommodation, food, transportation because of the market gap and the Covid security innovations and precautions. Also, the hygiene factor that used to be on the least priority would be on the topmost priority be it international or domestic travelling."
Khare shares how the industry may change post-Covid-19:
Local travel over international travel
In future people might only want to travel local keeping in mind its shorter distance hence making it a safer choice for them. Even the aviation industry would consider offering a different kind of seat choices which might be limited than what it used to be pre-Covid. International travel will be more expensive, hence people will choose to travel locally.
Rural tourism over cities
In the post-Corona world, travel is going to take a very unusual turn. Businesses that are into local stays, eco stays, village tours, skill-based tours and educational tours might see a good rise in future as people will be travelling with a desire to live sustainably and simple.
Road trips over local transport
Road trips across the nation will be a safer option to take-up. Private taxis and mechanics' businesses will see a rise as public transport is going to be very challenging in the future and people might want to avoid it for a healthy living. As in future social distancing is going to be a way of living. Any form of physical touch will be avoided by travellers.