Personal space will become really important and affect our choices in our way of traveling
Yiannis Thomatos
Vice President
Delphi Economic Forum
Some say that the current pandemic will trigger radical changes across multiple sectors; do you see this happening in hospitality? If yes, in which way?
In an on-going situation like the Covid-19 pandemic, I think all predictions are premature, as there are too many pieces of the puzzle missing so as to see the big picture.
The only certainty is that the longer it takes to have a vaccine, the harder it will be to return
to world traveling as we knew it. Although my expertise is in event planning, I can say a few things out of my experience in the conference sector, which makes part of the broader hospitality industry.
Obviously, as long as the pandemic is still evolving, the sector will have to adjust to current circumstances and needs. I believe there will probably rise a new, hybrid model for events that will combine a live, small-scale event with strong virtual elements, addressing a larger crowd. Mega-events will probably take a toll at this phase as people will be more reluctant to gather in large groups and closed spaces.
However, no matter the fear, let’s not underestimate the human need for face to face networking.
Which are the two most important disruptions that you expect to take place in the hospitality industry in the years to come due to the current crisis?
As far as the event sector is concerned, besides the hybrid-model event mentioned above, we will most likely see an increase in small, exclusive events with special interest and content, aiming to inner circle stakeholders.
In addition, the event venues will definitely have to adjust to the new space requirements – as for larger spaces, for less people. On the other hand, the tourism industry will probably go through major changes, starting from the very same vehicles we travel in. Air companies are already considering reducing seats to enhance security, while I believe we will soon see a comeback in train and car transportation which will boost the feeling of safety and independence, and revive internal tourism and the oldie but goodie road tripping. The space rule goes for hotels as well, especially super-luxury hotels. I believe hoteliers will have to bet on a “Covid-safe” label, meaning constant sanitation, multiple tests for employees and guests, on-site medical services and a lot of personal space for clients.
“I believe there will probably rise a new, hybrid model for events that will combine a live, small-scale event with strong virtual elements, addressing a larger crowd”
Istoria, a Member of Design Hotels
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At which pace do you expect travel to make its recovery? Do you expect a quick (V shaped) rebound or something different?
It’s hard to say whether the rebound will be V, U, or L shaped, as it clearly depends on how long the pandemic will last. The rebound will also be based on the ways in which each country is going to confront the pandemic, and whether there will be a coordinated global effort. It also depends on finding an efficient medication, and the steps we are going to take going in that direction. In any case, we should never lose our faith in the deep desire for human contact, whether it’s a formal handshake or strong hug: people are always in need of getting in with each other.
What are the key human behavior patterns that will drive change in travel from 2021 onwards?
The need to create life experience, and at the same time the need for greater personal space, which I find crucial. Personal space will become really important within the next period, and will affect our choices in our way of traveling, our accommodation (would you prefer a hostel out of an AirBnB apartment?) our destinations (crowded India or remote Iceland?), our budget (expensive resorts or low-budget road trips?). The only pattern that will stay the same is our innate need of exploration of life and the way we decide to spend and cherish our free time with ourselves or our beloved ones.
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