Tourism and travel have been more severely affected by the coronavirus pandemic than any other sector. This means that they will need to promote themselves in creative and powerful ways to get back on track.

There is no doubt that travel was the most affected sector of all those affected by COVID-19.

This was the very factor that seeded the virus’ around the globe. It spread from China to Europe, mainly in northern Italy. In February, the virus had spread to the UK through tens of thousands of Britons who were in Spain, France, and Italy.

The tourism sector took a huge hit, and the result was evident in the subsequent lockdowns, closures, and sightings of clear spring skies without a single jet contrail were testimony to this, along with the sad stories of many cruise ships carrying dozens of cases.

The UK’s tourism companies have always been at the top of the list for furlough payments. What happens next?

Marketing overseas travel 

Since the UK’s infection rate dropped, the issue of overseas travel has been a major concern.

The blanket ban was short-lived, and so ‘air bridges’ were announced to connect the UK to a variety of countries. It is now possible to fly short distances from France, Spain, Italy, and France. This is where most of the original infections originated. All three are in good shape, except for local lockdowns. For Leicester, see Lleida.

Marketers and travel companies will have to convince people that it is safe to go on such a trip. Las Vegas digital marketing agency must highlight safety measures at each destination.

Marketers need to understand that this will not discourage people from going. It will reassure them. After all, this virus is a global threat, so people cannot imagine that staying home is safe.

It is crucial to think about the “new normal” in marketing. People will only be able to ‘get away from it all in very limited ways. While there will still be many occasions where social distancing is necessary, face masks may be required in certain settings. There are also other options, such as indoor theatre or sporting fixtures.

Marketing domestic travel 

Britons might find it easier to focus on domestic options than overseas, given the potential problems that could affect their travel plans.

The promotion of domestic tourism by government ministers may have given some marketing a boost, though some political persuasions might view this as a deterrent to a staycation.

However, the idea that a staycation is possible has a lot of appeal. Marketers could use the following to appeal to UK holidaymakers.

• Security: Although the ability of Britons to travel to different countries seems to be changing every week, more information is available about who can travel to the UK.

• Many Britons are reluctant to travel overseas, especially to countries like Spain.

• Opening up of Celtic countries: With the lifting of travel restrictions in Scotland and Wales, and the opening of hospitality, people can now start to plan trips from this month.

• The patriotic angle: As buying British in an economic downturn is a positive way to keep money flowing within the domestic economy, so too can Britons feel good about supporting their tourist industry.

• You have the option to travel somewhere far away in the UK and feel like you are getting away with the world. There is also the added benefit of not seeing anyone else for a day, which means there is no risk of getting sick.

• Bucket Lists: While many people may already have the Great Wall of China, Niagara Falls, and Table Mountain on their bucket lists, this could be a chance for them to explore other parts of the UK.

Combining these ideas can make domestic tourism marketing very effective. There may not be a better time to visit the UK if people are more interested, especially if infection rates continue to drop.

The Scottish and Welsh Questions

However, some areas remain ambiguous about Scotland and Wales. First, some areas in remote parts of Scotland, especially the islands of Scotland, may be wary about tourists returning. They have been able to eliminate the virus virtually in isolation (as Guernsey and the Isle of Man did), but they are not as well equipped to handle visitors from areas still affected by the virus.

Moreover, like in countries abroad, there might be some anxiety about changes to regulations. For example, Scotland’s first minister, Nicola Sturgeon, has controversially claimed the right to close the border in England if Scotland effectively eliminates the virus or the second wave of people arrives further south.

There is also a downside to devolved countries’ ability to do things differently. Spain and other countries are still on the Scottish blacklist. This means that there is more potential to market domestic holidays to Scots, who might normally travel to the Iberian Peninsula.

Digital Marketing Element

Miami’s digital marketing agency will play an increasing role, it is clear. It was inevitable that eCommerce would become a dominant force in the tourism sector. This was accelerated by the COVID-19 crisis, which has ensured that more holiday bookings will be made online than ever before.

The possibility of finding marketing material for holidays has increased with the increase in internet usage. This is a great opportunity to promote the holiday at a time when many people are tired of the stress and want to take a break. If you are looking for one, take a look at our new travel marketing agencies in NYC in the USA or tourism marketing firms in the UK directories.