Not only is Florida bouncing back from the pandemic, but they’re shooting past 2019 numbers.
Dana Young, president of Visit Florida, told Fox13 News that the state only has third-quarter numbers for 2021 right now, but that those are higher than third quarter figures for 2019.
“That’s how well Florida is doing,” she said. “People see Florida as a bright, shining vestige of freedom in this country.”
Visit Tampa Bay CEO Santiago Corrada says hotel revenue for November 2021 was about $66 million. That’s higher than the $50 million Tampa Bay had in November of 2019, which at the time was their best November in history.
If the tourism news from Florida is any indication of what might happen elsewhere, the tourism and travel industry is in for a badly-needed treat.
ENGLAND DROPS RESTRICTIONS
England next week will drop mandatory mask regulations and vaccine passports for some venues.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson today (Thursday) announced that mandatory COVID passports for entering nightclubs and large events would end, though organizations could choose to use the National Health Service COVID pass if they wish, the BBC reports. He also said face masks will no longer be mandated, though people are still advised to wear coverings in enclosed or crowded spaces and when meeting strangers.
NETHERLANDS EASES TRAVEL RULES
Volendam, Netherlands. JIM BYERS PHOTO
Incoming travellers to the Netherlands who have received a booster shot at least seven days before arrival will be exempt from the quarantine rule, SchengenVisaInfo.com reports. Visitors, even those with full vaccination, still need to provide a negative COVID test result, however.
A NEW ZEALAND WINERY AIRLINE: NOW THAT’S A GREAT IDEA
CNN Travel reports that a New Zealand wine company is launching the “world’s first winery airline.”
