As the coronavirus pandemic continues to threaten human interaction and globalization, the hospitality and tourism industry has been hit the worst around the world.
The tourism and hospitality industry has witnessed a drastic reduction in footfalls as the international borders have been locked. The international flights have been suspended. A few countries have been trying to return to normalcy as they are looking to attract the tourists back to some of their premier destination.
Many countries have been offering massive discounts, partially paid for holidays, and are even providing free COVID-19 tests for the tourists. These 9 countries are offering paid visits.
Italy
The place of Sicily has offered to pay half the price of the plane ticket of the tourists and also for every three nights of stay, they will pay the tourist for one night.
Mexico
More than 200 businesses in the city of Cancun in the country of Mexico which are known for its beaches have offered discounts for travelers.
Bulgaria
The country that has recently emerged as a budget-friendly beach destination, Bulgaria has announced plans to offer free access to some beaches for tourists. The government has also offered free use of sun loungers and umbrellas.
United Kingdom
In the United Kingdom daily, The Sun put out a statement that the tourism industry is looking at financial incentives within the UK, said Visit Britain boss Patricia Yates. She said,
“For every country, kickstarting the domestic market is really important and Italy has gone with that idea. It is an interesting suggestion for us if we look at what others are doing. So we could be looking at marketing campaigns or yes, you could give money straight to people and incentivize them to holiday at home.”
Cyprus
The Cyprus government has announced that whoever tests positive for coronavirus after traveling to Cyprus, they could have their trip costs covered by the government. The government has begun to offer financial assurances.
Japan
The Asian country of Japan is all set to restart it’s domestic tourism and has announced a subsidy of 184$ per day.
Switzerland
The government has proposed a potential 1.17$ billion tourism recovery plan. This includes giving a 200$ to every citizen as a voucher to spend in the nation’s domestic tourism.
Madiera Island
In a rather less glamourous approach, the Portuguese government is offering free coronavirus tests for people visiting the island of Madiera Island as and when the borders open on July 1st.
Iceland
The country of Iceland which was popular recently in news for testing almost all its citizens is also offering free coronavirus tests for all arriving tourists.
Source: India Times
