With more countries relaxing covid restrictions, the world is slowly opening up again. But for tourism, which forms a major chunk of the budget of several countries, the restrictions have started to ease but caution still remains, according to UN World Tourism Organization.
In the fourth edition of its Covid -19 Related Travel Restrictions: A Global Review for Tourism report, the UNWTO says that caution still remains even though tourism spots are opened for international tourists. The UNWTO looked at the measures taken in 217 destinations worldwide as of May 18. The report says that seven destinations have eased travel restrictions and several others are engaged in discussions about re-opening.
The UNWTO report said that 100 per cent of the destinations in the globe continue to have some form of COVID-19-related travel restrictions. It said that 75 per cent of the tourist destinations continue to have the borders completely closed for intentional tour. It said the restrictions are in place for ten weeks in 37 per cent of the cases and restrictions are in place for 14 weeks or more in 24 per cent of global destinations. The report says that 65 per cent of destinations in UNWTO regions are closed to tourism (Africa (74 per cent) Americas (86 per cent), Asia and the Pacific (67 per cent), Europe and the Middle East (69 per cent)
Noting that easing of travel restrictions will help ensure the many social and economic benefits that tourism guarantees, UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said that it will contribute to the livelihoods of many millions of people around the world. “The sector is a driver of sustainable development and a pillar of economies. UNWTO stresses the need for vigilance, responsibility and international cooperation as the world slowly opens up again,” he said.
