Few, if any, sectors have been affected by the novel coronavirus pandemic as tourism. For this reason, 2021 will be set as the year when billions of people were freed from the restrictions of the pandemic to return to explore countries, cities or, who knows, an unknown place. This was only possible thanks to a miracle brought about by science: the vaccine.
Europe experienced a major recovery. A country with more flexible rules, Greece was the champ between July and August, the hottest months, reaching 86% of all visitors it received at the same time in 2019. Turkey also stood out (62%), and travelers can enjoy the traditional balloon show In the city of Nevsehir. France and Italy regained 36% of their pre-Covid indicators. The exception was the United Kingdom, which managed to get fewer visitors than it did in 2020.
The most awaited reopening, especially for Brazilians, took place in October, when the US allowed in foreign travelers, requiring only a full vaccination schedule, a negative test three days before the trip, and, of course, a regular visa. The date coincided with the fiftieth anniversary of the grand opening of Walt Disney World, which is scheduled to last for a year. According to the country’s major travel agencies, Orlando is second only to Lisbon, Buenos Aires, and Cancun among the international New Year’s destinations that Brazilians look for.
Despite warnings of a new wave of the pandemic in Europe, there is optimism in the sector. The World Tourism Council estimates that, by 2022, roads and airports will reach figures higher than those obtained three years ago, a move that will mainly reflect the progress of domestic tourism. In Brazil, the high number of travelers has been feeling since the second half of the year, and pre-pandemic rates are expected to be reached during the summer holidays. Whether it’s by land, sea or air, Life – Folow! – He’s back to normal.
Published in VEJA December 29, 2021, Issue No. 2770
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