Travel and tourism bounce back from catastrophic
events in less than half the time it did in 2001, according to findings
released Monday by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).
The report found that a destination's rebound time from
terrorism, political instability, natural disasters and disease outbreaks went
from an average of 26 months in 2001 to 10 months in 2018.
Political instability
recovery takes longest, according to the report, with an average of 22.2
months. Terrorist or security-related incidents have the shortest average
recovery time at 11.5 months. Natural disasters and outbreaks are in the middle
at 16.2 months and 19.4 months, respectively.
Done in partnership with crisis-response services company Global
Rescue, the study looked at 90 crises over 17 years, 32% that were
terrorism/security related, 13% disease/outbreaks, 19% political instability
and 36% natural disasters.
"This comprehensive research shows just how resilient the
travel and tourism industry truly is," said WTTC CEO Gloria Guevara. "It is
crucial that we continue to learn from previous incidents and continue to come
together through public-private partnerships to make a real difference in
reducing both the economic and human impact."
The study emphasizes the importance of crisis preparedness.
Global Rescue CEO Dan Richards said, "Sometimes, the
preparation, management and coordination of the resources needed to mount an
effective response is as challenging as the crisis itself."
The report suggests that public-private coalitions,
readiness plans, education and communication are critical for preparedness and
prevention.
"Responsiveness to ensure a speedy recovery should emphasize
transparency, readiness and confidence, inviting the world back when ready,
enticing travelers to return, building on one's travel segments, and rebuilding
infrastructure strategically and smartly post-crisis," the report said.