Tourism Planning after the Pandemic

Cyprus International University (CIU) School of Tourism and Hotel Management Director Assoc. Prof. Dr. Orhan Uludağ, speaking within the scope of 15-22 April Tourism Week, stated that due to the pandemic, the Closed-Circuit Tourism initiative is one of the alternatives.

Expressing that while it has been a year where the effects of the pandemic have not disappeared and preparations are being made for the tourism season, Uludağ went on to state, "However, if the right steps are taken at the right time, this year will leave a mark as the year in which the longing for a holiday returns”.

Putting emphasis on the subject of the Close-Circuit Tourism Initiative, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Uludağ continued, “I have understood the following from the few contacts I have made with sector representatives. Closed-Circuit Tourism has not been fully embraced by the sector, and some hotels have even stated that they believe this initiative will not work”.

Reminding that a very dynamic process is being experienced with new formations constantly taking place, Uludağ elaborated, “It is not known what time will tell us, but the very clear fact here is; it is obvious that there is not a single branch left that the workers in tourism can depend on anymore."

Bringing attention to the fact that instead of any hurried action, prompt rational planning should be made, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Uludağ stated that otherwise, it is very likely that the year 2021 will be a year without tourism also.

Reminding that since the epidemic, there has been a change and a trend towards eco-tourism on a global scale, Uludağ noted, “This is a rapidly growing trend that focuses on protection and the creation of local employment. I believe that this trend will contribute to the Tourism Sector in the TRNC”.

Pointing out that technology can also play an important role in tourism, Uludağ stated, "While social distancing, health and hygiene protocols will remain in force for the foreseeable future, the contactless service delivery to digital technology can be a bridge for improvement."

Noting that solutions may differ from country to country, with the pace of recovery depending on global developments, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Uludağ also noted that beyond the urgent priority of mitigating the impact of the pandemic, countries need to establish a "new normal" for the tourism industry, and that it would help to transition to more sustainable tourism models and that investing in new technologies will assist in the recovery in this area.