Fact: quarantine periods deter travellers

It can be hard to be optimistic about the future of travel, but new research carried out by Skyscanner reveals that half (49 per cent) of travellers have a positive outlook, compared to the 20 per cent who believe it is ‘getting worse’.

Skyscanner’s study also revealed that in the week commencing 29 March, the most searched-for travel destinations were the US, Spain, Russia, Turkey and the UK. And the travel comparison engine and travel agency also highlights that reduced quarantine times are leading to surges in searches to popular destinations – following Thailand’s announcement that it would reduce its quarantine time to 10 days for vaccinated tourists, worldwide searches for Thailand in March increased by 40.8 per cent compared with February.

Clarity key to improving travel and tourism

Hugh Aitken, Vice-President of Flights at Skyscanner, said: “With many travellers awaiting the green light for international travel to resume from their respective governments, Skyscanner data shows that there is a growing sense of optimism around the world. 

“Where measures have been announced providing clarity on dates and restrictions, we see direct correlations with surges in demand. Domestic travel and international travel corridors are showing early signs of promise.

“While there is still some way to go, it’s clear that testing and vaccines are key enablers in unlocking travel. However, the industry’s recovery is dependent on how straightforward and standardised the processes on both ends of the journey are for travellers, in addition to clear and timely guidance on reopening.”

Over in the UK, many have reacted to the Global Travel Taskforce’s plans to gradually facilitate the UK’s outbound travel industry.