We tend to be reticent making predictions when it is clear that we are all sailing in unchartered waters and in some cases trying to control things that are not really in our control. The best we can do in these cases is count on our instincts, be as charitable as possible, and very importantly, be respectful of everyone. Try to prepare ourselves for the next day in travel, when one thing we know for sure is that nothing will be the same, but also that now, more than ever, people will need to connect, to engage with communities, to be mindful and to travel for a purpose. But what is really going to happen and where do we stand now? The future is already here as we witness the emergence of new concepts, services, and approaches. We are experiencing a unique situation of dealing with a crisis, recession and recovery all at the same time.

Unprecedented events require an unprecedented response and a change of mindset. The moment we accept this, we will feel liberated. The starting point is that everything has changed. No industry, and even more tourism, shall try to revert back to what it has been regularly practicing, before taking a pause and ask if it makes sense in this new normal. Everyone needs to evaluate and make decisions in a different way.

Travel reminds us of all the things that we share, most notably our humanity and our planet. Sustainable travel as an industry is growing around this reality, and the “business as usual” mentality around the products and practices we use is changing. While the planet has been incredibly resilient for billions of years, it is uncanny how vulnerable we are on this earth that has a vastly growing population, and one that is so interconnected. If global citizens see the positive impact on a planet wracked by the effects of climate change, and when borders do reopen, a more mindful approach to travel will likely be top of mind: fewer trips, longer trips, more meaningful trips.