Like all responsible tour providers, we are monitoring the global events and hoping the worst is behind us in both our country and yours. Thinking positively, we are now turning our thoughts forward to the day when at least thinking about restarting group travel becomes a sensible prospect.
Here are some thoughts we have on the most likely way forward.
When might tour programs start to travel?
In our view there are 3 critical criteria to be considered and satisfied before programs can recommence.
Personal safety: Providers and participants alike will need reassurance that travel is not a high risk undertaking. We believe it will start with the airlines, then hotels and transportation and other partners. It remains to be seen if therapeutics or a vaccine will be the required threshold.
Economic security:
Many families will have suffered considerable economic damage and will need time to rebuild.
Product availability:
Do hotels and related international partners survive the economic downturn and if so are the authorities in the destinations willing to accept overseas visitors?
What are we doing to plan for the “new normal” future?
We are already working with dedicated healthcare professionals to assist us in formulating a robust and comprehensive best practices plan, specifically adjusted to reflect the new normal.
This will include criteria for the selection of all suppliers in the destinations we serve in Europe including accommodation, restaurants, activity partners and private transportation companies. The European Tour Operators Association is coordinating uniform public health policy for hotels and major tourist sites across the continent.
Our own plan will govern how we operate our programs to be enhance the wellbeing of every participant and local host including PPE and interactions.
Is there any point in planning now?
Talk is not only cheap, its free! So our view is yes, if you feel like discussing future travel plans, we certainly have the time to talk right now! Needless to say all planning is without obligation.
Our office telephones are not manned right now, but just send us an email at info@selecttravel.com.
We look forward to talking to you!