Many countries are preparing to reopen as the risk perceptions of travel subside considerably despite there being pockets of fresh outbreaks and second waves of the Covid-19 pandemic. Though it may be a while before the sector returns to anything resembling normalcy, many destinations seem to have realised that those countries that open faster and with least restrictions are likely to benefit the most from the first spurt of the pent-up demand that has been building up across the world.
Given the widespread nature of the pandemic, now it is being realised that lockdowns are blunt instruments and widespread travel restrictions are not required, as per the World Health Organisation. It is careful health measures, safety protocols and hygienic lifestyles that matter most for which travel should not suffer.
In this backdrop, ReCONNECT, the first virtual B2B travel trade exhibition of India launched by the organisers of India’s leading travel trade show network OTM, BLTM & TTF, opened on September 18 with over 3000+ travel industry professionals logging in at the same time. With an overload of the traffic of visitors at the same time, the server faced some technical glitch and crashed. The organisers, however, say that it will be functioning normally latest by September 21 to ensure B2B meetings happen as per schedule.
However, the inaugural sessions and conference tracks are going on as per schedule with the final B2B matchmakings and live chats doing the rounds. ReCONNECT is essentially offering a platform to restart a business dialogue among the travel and tourism industry for the resumption of domestic and international travel, as the restrictions are gradually lifted.
Attending the inaugural session, Arvind Bundhun, director, Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority said, ‘‘Mauritius is eagerly waiting to welcome back Indian tourists. This is one of the most important markets for us as we have our roots here. The kind of visitors we get all-year is a great support to our economy and we can confirm that we will be open soon for the Indian tourists.’’
‘‘This is a trying time and with the revival of tourism, Indian tourists besides visiting their own country, will also explore their neighbouring countries and we are sure that regional tourism will thrive,’’ Meenakshi Sharma, director-general, ministry of tourism, government of India said.
“Indian outbound travellers are educated, insured, know the risks and take good care of health. Tests in India are reliable and economic (below USD 30). So countries may not have any risks in opening up to Indians but they may tend to miss the bus if they go by WHO focus on ‘cases’ which is a highly dubious measure, given that those who travel could be tested in advance! Those countries that open without extra restrictions are going to hugely benefit from demand of India outbound, including groups for weddings, due to the number of persons’ cap within India, destination weddings would make sense for many more,’’ Sanjiv Agarwal, chairman & CEO of Fairfest Media the organiser of ReCONNECT told India Outbound, which is the official media partner of the show.
Over 2,000 buyers, including travel agents, corporate buyers, wedding planners and event managers, have registered for the virtual event in order to meet with over 200 B2B suppliers representing about 500 destinations from 18 countries.
