The tourism industry has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. With whole countries shut down and flights cancelled to contain the spread, the industry has ground to a halt. This has led many to ask travellers to ‘postpone don’t cancel’ their planned trips.
The idea behind the campaign is to avoid crippling the industry with significant revenue losses. To keep money circulating to hotels, airlines, guesthouses and resorts, the idea is to postpone the trip until a time deemed safe for travel.
West Coast Way, which advertises tourism along the West Coast of the Western Cape, promoted this campaign on their Facebook page.
‘We are encouraging travellers to postpone their journey and stretch their legs with us on the West Coast when the lockdown has been lifted next month,’ they said.
While postponing a trip can be infuriating – since you had put in all the effort into planning and paying for it – there is something to be said for delayed gratification.
After being cooped up inside during this lockdown and isolation time, a trip will feel well-earned and possibly even appreciated more. South Africa’s tourism sector are promoting investing in the country once we’re allowed outside once again.
Rather than taking a trip overseas, South Africans are urged to book local holidays and explore their own country, helping contribute to keeping #tourismstrong in the country.
However, there may also be some incentives for keeping to your overseas travel plans was well, as some vendors are offering incentives for postponement like paying this year’s price for a trip next year.
Image: Pixabay
