Domestic tourism has compensated for some of the negative effects of COVID-19, according to the UNWTO.

International tourism has been strongly hit by COVID19 - with a 70% drop for the first eight first months of 2020 compared to the same period in 2019. Domestic tourism has compensated part of these negative economic effects in some countries.

The latest World Tourism Barometer by UNWTO states that international tourism dropped in 70% for the first eight months of 2020 compared to the same period of last year. This is a result of the strong travel restrictions that have been implemented worldwide to limit the spread of COVID-19.

The UNWTO highlights the measure taken by different countries to safely restart tourism: setting hygiene and safety protocols, developing travel corridors or bubbles, and the promotion of domestic tourism.

While international tourism has negative numbers, domestic tourism has been the answer to support the sector’s recovery - especially in countries like Russia and China where the domestic market has a considerable size. However, it should be noted that domestic tourism serves partially the purpose of supporting the recovery of the sector, because it does not compensate fully for the international demand that some destinations usually receive.

It is interesting that, according to several experts, domestic tourism demand has been focused on nature-based products. For instance, those that take place in coastal or rural areas. To understand more about domestic tourism and its opportunities, check this UNWTO Briefing Note on the subject.

The UNWTO Panel of Experts estimates that international tourism could rebound during the third quarter of 2021. Although, 20% of the experts foresee a recovery only by 2022. Here you can read the full UNWTO press release.