What Leisure Travel Looks like for 2021
When the COVID-19 pandemic began, it put a quick halt on the travel industry that has held quite strong since. Though the pandemic is still going on, developments are being made every day to keep the public safer and healthier. From treatments to vaccine development, there are plenty of reasons why people may start traveling again in 2021.
However, pandemics and public health in general are not black and white. And the travel industry will move that way with it. Just like the pandemic won’t end overnight, travel won’t go back to the way it was before overnight. The pandemic will have lasting effects on the way we travel — perhaps for years to come. If you’re interested in what that means for your business and the people you may see there, here are a few of the ways leisure travel may start up again in 2021.
Health and Wellness Focus
If you run a retreat center or have a focus on wellness in your hotel, this might be great news for you. With the anxiety and fear that a lot of people have experienced throughout 2020, many people will want to focus on their mental and physical health, all while being an environment that encourages safety and consciousness. Even on more standard travel, health and wellness may appear more at the forefront of guests’ minds.
Air Travel Moving Slow
One big question on many peoples’ minds is what air travel will look like in 2021. While there is still air travel in 2020, it’s much more careful than it was before the pandemic. But even in 2021, air travel is expected to move slowly, not jump quickly to fill in the market. There will continue to be a high emphasis placed on social distancing, disinfecting the surfaces around and hand washing.
Going Local
With air travel moving slowly and things taking more of a gradual start, it’s safe to assume that people will be more likely to take more local trips and stick closer to drivable destinations. You may be more likely to see local families on their weekend getaway than guests who just flew in from across the country. In a way, this can be a brilliant opportunity to experience local attractions and hideaways that may have fallen by the wayside in the days of standard travel. Road trips, national parks, state parks and local hideaways may see their highlight in 2021.
Peaceful Solitude
Even with more travel, it’s still important for travelers to stay responsible and protect themselves and others. With this in mind, exclusive experiences and remote locations might see a boom. Those who would have explored Times Square before may trade it in for a cabin upstate. Vacations like going glamping, camping, hiking or adventuring with a small group — or in total solitude — may be more popular than ever.
Travel Expectations for 2021
Although it’s impossible to fully predict the future, it’s likely that local, drivable trips to more exclusive and remote destinations may be in store for much of 2021, in addition to some careful air travel and health-centered relaxation. No matter what kinds of guests you welcome into your establishment, you have the opportunity to give them an amazing 2021 experience.
Author: Kacey Mya
