It is becoming increasingly clear that this virus is going to dramatically affect the tourism industry in 2020. As flights are cancelled, large events are put on hold, and bulk-buying of toilet paper becomes the norm, are people going to put their travel and holiday plans on hold?
The most pressing issue is the threat of travel bans. We know that some parts of Italy have been quarantined – will other countries and areas follow suit? At the time of writing the UK foreign office warns against ‘all but essential’ travel to several Italian towns – if, as some warn, the UK and other countries decide to advise against ‘all but essential’ travel EVERYWHERE – European towns and businesses that depend on tourism are going to suffer an indescribable amount.
Public events such as football matches, opera performances, and tours have been cancelled or postponed in Italy. Germany and France have now banned large gatherings of over 1000 people.
In Venice, the hotels, restaurants, and other tourist attractions are already feeling the impact – even before the long-anticipated Easter break which is normally a welcome reprieve after the long slow winter months. Europe is receiving considerably fewer visitors from China – in the three weeks following travel restrictions in China it has been reported that travel to Europe from China fell by 41.7%.
However, all that being said – the peak travel time will really begin in April – and a lot can change in that time. Savvy travelers are finding great bargain breaks on offer, as hotels and airlines are cutting prices to attract customers. You can easily find a one-way flight from London to Faro in April for just 19.99! You might actually decide that the time to take a holiday had really never been better! The UK has shifted to its second stage of tackling the coronavirus outbreak – to ‘delay’ rather than ‘contain’ – as it admits that the virus is likely to spread throughout the world. There really is no need to stay home – as your risk of contracting the virus is now likely to be much the same wherever you are. Ok – perhaps you may want to stay clear of Wuhan for a while….!
Official advice remains the same. Wash your hands regularly. Use a tissue when you sneeze or cough. Avoid close contact with sick people. Here at PIE Lagos we think we kinda think you should all be doing these things all the time anyway! Medical professionals advise that you should treat the coronavirus as you would treat the flu – keep basic health and hygiene in mind, and don’t travel if you’re sick.
Symptoms of coronavirus include a cough, sore throat, difficulty breathing, fever, and tiredness. If you have all of these – go ahead and seek medical advice.
The bottom line is simple. You don’t need to cancel your travel plans. Enjoy your holiday. Get some sunshine. Take advantage of the great deals and escape the drudgery and stress of the real world. Wash your hands. Oh, and there are no toilet paper shortages to report here in Lagos!
Lagos residents and locals - lets get out and support our local businesses. We’re all in this together! We’ve got loads of great bars and restaurants to enjoy, and some super exciting events coming up such as the Lagos World Beer Fest, Rota de Petisco, and the Lagos Food Fest.
As always we’d love to hear your thoughts! Get in touch and let us know how coronavirus is affecting your travel plans.
PIE Lagos
Helpful links:
Gov.uk travel advice
World Health organisation travel advice
NHS advice
