While the tourism industry is still in the midst of a major crisis, it is nearing the end of the tunnel and should urgently focus its energy on its contracts for 2022.

So said CEO of Tourvest Destination Management, Martin Wiest, speaking during last week’s SATSA town hall meetings.

He said he didn’t believe industry would see many international booking for the first two quarters of 2021. “There will be certain level of trade by the second half of this year, to bring in some revenue and cash flow for tourism businesses, but management of costs will be crucial.”

Wiest is, however, very optimistic about the forward book for 2022 which is why he is emphasising the urgency of 2022 contracts.

SATSA held three regional virtual town hall meetings last week to discuss the impact of the resurgence of COVID-19 over the past festive season as well as the challenges around key source markets being affected and the extension of travel restrictions and the alcohol ban.

SATSA members were given the chance to air their concerns, which the inbound industry association will take on board as it plans activities for the year. 

The recordings have been made available and Tourism Update will share them during this week.