The Covid-19 pandemic has disrupted the travel and tourism industry worldwide. More than a year later, some countries are just now reopening while others are facing their 3rd or 4th waves of outbreaks. A lot of uncertainty is still in the air as countries vary in the progression of their vaccination efforts.
For island destinations like Micronesia where it may take more time for tourism to get back to a “new norm”, opportunities to promote travel, without having to travel or spend a lot of money, do exist.
These opportunities make a lot of sense for destinations hit hardest by the loss of tourism revenue. Here are some ways you can continue to promote travel as you anticipate reopening:
- Reach out to the contacts (print and online media partners) you have made and worked with in the past. Many are offering discounted rates to help destinations who lack the budget.
- Reconnect with travel partners in your markets to provide updates of your destination. A product update presentation will inform them of “what’s new” as well as, your readiness to bring visitors back to your island.
- Keep your website and social media platforms updated.
- Work with local influencers/content creators to promote your destination. The best story-tellers of your destination are the people that live there.
- Take advantage of PATA’s resources. ”Big” PATA Members and Chapter Members are offered complimentary or discounted rates to attend travel-specific webinars, participate in virtual trade shows, and get access to research reports related to travel and tourism sectors.
