Ernesto Sanchez Beaumont,
We decided to ask this community directly for their opinions on the topic in order to get the most transparent and accurate view of how COVID-19 has or has not impacted their confidence in travel.
What is the overall message the industry should take away from your study?
Travellers have not lost their appetite for leisure travel. The majority of them are itching to go as soon as it’s permissible and safe for them to do so. They intend to continue using every major mode of travel (air, hotel, rail and car), even those who said they were less comfortable will continue to do so. They also want more control over their travel experience, which means customising traditional packages to suit their expectations and needs. Personalisation is going to be an even bigger component than before COVID-19.
Lastly, we found travellers placing a higher premium on support from travel agents. They see a great deal of value on problem solving at all stages of the trip.
ï RI DOO WKRVH VXUveyed globally were open to custom travel experiences, either advised by travel agents or designed themselves (70% globally)
ï :LWK DQ
DUUD\ RI XQcertainties still unfolding, Amadeus sees the potential for travel sellers to play a bigger role in helping consumers successfully navigate their options throughout all phases of their trip experience to strengthen confidence.
What are the most important insights for travel agencies now as well as in the future?
Travellers want to go farther, longer and less often. This means travel agents need to help their clients make the most of their time and monetary investment. The primary reason for travel overall is to reconnect with family and friends (64% cited this vs 52% globally), with a greater desire for an unfamiliar setting by 22% (40% globally). Travel agents should gear their consultation more towards helping travellers meet these two objectives. And there is opportunity.
Nearly 82% of respondents in the Middle East (vs 72% globally) say they would consider international trips once restrictions are lifted. COVID-19 is definitely influencing travellers’ choice of destination. Whether it’s the severity of the disease, recovery status or measures to prevent the disease – travellers will need reliable sources of information to make decisions. Travel agents can play a key role in their decision-making process.
The primary reason for travel overall is to reconnect with family and friends (64% cited this vs 52% globally), with a greater desire for an unfamiliar setting by 22% (40% globally)