As the Omicron variant spreads around the world, the travel rebound we were seeing just a few days ago is now looking like another setback. How big that setback will be could be determined in a few weeks, experts suggest. Meanwhile, here are some headlines you should be aware of as we head towards the first day of December. NEW TRAVEL RULES FOR CANADIANS START TODAY Starting today, unvaccinated travellers over the age of 12 won’t be allowed to board a plane or train in Canada. Also, a negative COVID-19 test will no longer serve as a substitute for most Read more
Asia
Business travel is on the mend, according to a new study from the World Travel and Tourism Council and McKinsey & Company consultants. The latest WTTC/McKinsey report suggests that, following a 61% decline in 2020, global business travel spending is expected to rise by 26% this year and by 34% in 2022. Overall, they expect business travel to recover to two-thirds of 2019 levels by next year. But the report, titled Adapting to Endemic Covid-19: The Outlook for Business Travel, says recovery will vary by region. In the Asia-Pacific region, business travel is expected to rise 32% this year and Read more
Germany takes the cake, but Canada wins the silver medal. A new Nations Brand Index report from Anholt Ipsos finds Germany ranks in first place out of 60 countries around the world. It’s the seventh time overall and fifth year in a row that Germany has taken top honours. Germany was the highest ranked NBI nation in 2008, 2014, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020, and now in 2021. With another first place ranking this year, Germany has now tied the United States’ record of seven years as the top NBI nation. Germany’s reputational strengths lie on the Exports, Immigration and Read more
Cruising is on the rebound in Europe. But the Cayman Islands have extended their border closure until October 1. A rather mixed bag for my Future of Travel report for August 10. Cayman Islands Extends Border Closing The Cayman Islands Government has announced that having continually monitored the rate of infection in other countries, particularly in the United States where the pandemic is still widespread, Cabinet has taken the decision to extend the Islands border closure for an additional 30 days, until 1st October 2020, at which time a further decision will be made. During this time, repatriation flights by Read more
The travel news from Europe and Hong Kong is bad. But things may be looking up for Canadian tourism in the Atlantic provinces. My Future of Travel report for July 27. It was only a few weeks ago that the UK put Spain on its good list, saying it was safe for its residents to take a holiday there. Now, with a surge in cases in Barcelona and other places, the UK has put Spain back on its naughty list, meaning UK residents would have to quarantine after coming home. The World Travel and Tourism Council called the move a Read more
