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DATA from the Association of Travel Companies (Asita) shows that travel bookings from domestic tourists have now reached around 40% of the normal condition, or an increase of up to twice the condition before the easing policy.
Hospitality service provider OYO, through a statement on Thursday (10/21), assessed that this increase was one of the impacts of various stimulus and policies carried out by the government, along with the increase in vaccination rates and people’s habits to carry out health protocols.
“We also see the flow of local tourists who are gradually starting to return, as well as bringing changes in behavior that make the industry must continue to adapt,” said Country Head OYO Hotels and Homes Indonesia, Agus Hartono Wijaya.
Agus said his party also continues to strive to support the acceleration of the digital transformation of the tourism industry in Indonesia through a variety of innovations and technologies to meet customer needs.
“As one of the tech-hospitality companies that provides a two-way platform for patrons and consumers, we are optimistic and ready to support the digital transformation of the tourism industry in Indonesia in the momentum of the return of tourism activities in Indonesia,” he noted.
Preference
Furthermore, there are a number of changes in people’s preferences in traveling during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
The first is the preference for domestic travel, where tourist destinations in remote areas and not many crowds are the new preferences of tourists, because they are considered more able to provide a factor of safety and comfort in traveling in the midst of a pandemic. Further is a staycation in a budget hotel with a unique style.
“Boutique hotels with smaller capacities will be more desirable because they can provide a sense of security and comfort when on vacation after COVID-19 because customers can avoid crowds to maintain social distance and hygiene while staying,” explained Agus.
In addition, OYO also sees three main factors that are key in the recovery momentum of the tourism sector. The first is the increasingly crucial role of technology, considering that people are now happier with the contactless option to place an order.
Furthermore, Agus assessed that tourism and hospitality industry players need to be prepared to collaborate to become a stronger and more resilient ecosystem after the pandemic. Lastly, is the importance of sustainable eco-friendly tourism after the pandemic.
“During the pandemic, we can see the environment recovering from pollution caused by human activities, be it clear river water or clearer skies,” Agus remarked.
“This positive side effect can leave quite a positive impression on people around the world. This shows the importance of sustainable solutions and innovations that are environmentally friendly for all industries, including tourism,” he concluded. [antaranews]
