In 2022, hotels around the world will be forced to raise prices. And this will happen even if the demand for tourists does not recover to pre-pandemic levels, and “crazy” restrictions will remain. This trend, among other trends of the season, was named by Norbert Phoebe, president of the German Tourist Association (DRV).
“The ongoing coronavirus pandemic has reduced all flights and hotels. This has led to increased costs throughout the tourism industry. Therefore, even if there is no increase in demand in the market, prices will rise. Due to the rise in prices, prices are expected to increase by 10-20%, “said Mr. Phoebe.
At the same time, the German expert is not optimistic about the forecasts for the recovery of demand and tourism in general. The situation with the “omicron” forces Europeans to be very careful when booking for the summer of 2022, no matter how bored they are traveling. This slows down bookings. “Decisions and restrictions often change, leading to insecurity, which is why tourists do not want to book tickets,” he said.
However, according to his forecasts, uncertainty remains the main trend, and the situation with the coronavirus is far from predictable. It is still difficult for Europeans to travel. “Constantly changing rules are the biggest obstacle and keep people from traveling,” he said.
However, the opposite trend is noted – tourists are tired of restrictions and are becoming bolder – said the consulting firm Realizing Progress in tourism: “If the number of coronavirus patients decreases, people will find courage and travelers will want to realize their dreams. People who have been left without their usual vacation have been longing for sunny places for three years in a row, ”they say.
Another trend is expected segregation. “People who have not been vaccinated will not have an easy time,” say German experts. Many countries have made vaccination a basic condition for access. And in Europe itself, any participation in public life without vaccination is impossible in many places.