The travel industry as we know it has been brought to a screeching halt amid the coronavirus pandemic. Despite their loss of customers and revenue, some businesses have stepped up to help those in need, while others are coming up with creative ways to stay relevant. Keep reading to discover how the travel industry is creating hope during the pandemic.

Hotels Volunteer Rooms for Patients

Hotels have been some of the businesses hit hardest by coronavirus restrictions. With business and leisure travel suspended, hotel brands have had few guests to fill their rooms. Despite their struggles, hotels have started opening their doors to provide free or discounted rooms for people in need.

In places like California and Texas, the government is contracting entire buildings and using them to house hospital patients and at-risk individuals who need to self-isolate. Illinois’ Hotel & Lodging Association is similarly providing free rooms for first responders, while other properties have volunteered to quarantine positive or asymptomatic patients. Read on to discover how hotels across the country are doing their part to fight the coronavirus: https://www.hotelmanagement.net/operateoteliers-open-up-properties-to-help-those-fighting-covid-19

Commercial Airlines Pivot to Cargo

The major US airlines, including American, United, Delta and Southwest, have faced challenges in recent weeks as they’ve adjusted to new travel restrictions. The majority of commercial flights were cancelled due to the coronavirus, but the need for medical supplies and other equipment has only increased.  To combat their lost revenue, airlines are repurposing their passenger planes to deliver cargo around the world.

Making the switch to carry cargo has allowed the airlines to generate some revenue and keep their staff employed. They’ve also helped keep up with increased global demand for supplies, mail and packages. Find out how airlines are adapting to their changing roles here: https://www.businessinsider.com/coronavirus-airlines-flying-cargo-only-planes-for-medical-supplies-mail-2020-4#flying-cargo-keeps-some-of-americans-wide-bodies-flying-and-not-condemned-to-sit-idle-on-a-runway-awaiting-the-end-of-this-crisis-7

Tourism Brands Offer Virtual Tours

Consumers are in need of more entertainment than ever. To combat boredom for those stuck at home, museums, state parks and even wineries have started offering virtual tours and tastings in the absence of in-person experiences. Now people can appreciate the beauty of Yosemite Valley, take hikes through famous parks and wonder at the Palace of Versailles from the comfort of their couch.

These tourism brands hope online experiences will keep their destinations top-of-mind when the travel bans are lifted. Their hope is they can stay relevant, build anticipation and earn future customers once the virus concerns subside. Is there any risk that these free virtual tours will become the new expectation, and travelers will become less inclined to see the sites in person? Check out the full story here: https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/article/Virtual-tourism-is-suddenly-everywhere-in-15195780.php

Cruise Industry Looks Ahead to 2021

The cruise industry’s struggles with covid-19 have been well documented. Though a number of ships have seen mass outbreaks of the virus and many trips have been cancelled in the coming months, there is hope on the horizon. Cruise bookings for 2021 have actually been on the rise, with as much as a 40% increase in booked trips compared to 2019.

While some of the increase is likely due to travelers re-booking new cruises after their 2020 trip was cancelled, there are other factors at play, too. Cruise lines are known for having highly loyal customer bases who will continue to support their favorite brands in the future. In fact, a recent survey found 75% of cruisers plan to book new trips at the same rate they were before the pandemic. Find out more about the cruise industry’s hopes and struggles here: https://www.businessinsider.com/cruise-ship-bookings-are-increasing-for-2021-despite-coronavirus-2020-4