Tourism has been a remarkably dynamic economic sector over the past 20 years, notably in the advanced countries with growth rates well above national averages
But profound changes are in the offing with a dual shift – in terms of regional destinations and by way of points of contact with prospective travelers
Advanced countries, notably in Europe, have been enjoying a long term yearly growth projection of 2.7% - 3%, but travel and tourism in emerging markets are expected to be the drivers of the industry going forward, favoring intra-region short-stay destinations, to the main benefit of the Asia – Pacific region
The up-march of e-commerce in travel arrangement has been well received both by the tourism industry and by the travelers but the success of reservation sites – and their integration in full service conglomerates – has strengthened their position as gatekeepers, to the dismay of the industry
In free-fall with the pandemics scare, the tourism industry is likely to spit up - regional embedding will continue to matter but flexibility in the response to the new health challenge be decisive
