We are deeply saddened by the news that the chairman of Visit USA Italy, Massimo Loquenzi, passed away in November due to complications from COVID-19. Our sincere condolences go out to his beloved family and his colleagues at MasterCons.
He will be dearly missed by the many friends he made worldwide, and especially in the travel industry. Massimo’s death is another grim reminder that the pandemic is not yet over, and we must continue to be diligent and remain united.
Hope for future travel plans
This week’s news also gives us hope for the future. The news we have anxiously been awaiting of the initial distribution of vaccines is a tremendous milestone for health systems including The Netherlands, which plans to begin vaccinations in January. In addition, the Dutch government announced another extension – and expansion – of support for the industries most affected by the pandemic which includes the travel industry.
Last minute bookings will increase
While holiday travel is hardly possible at the moment, the travel industry expects a big boost in bookings after the travel restrictions are relaxed. People continue to keep dreaming and looking for inspiration for their future travels. It is expected the number of last minute bookings will increase enormously as the confidence in travel returns, with the first to travel being more affluent individuals.
Catch up travel
Some sources even speak of “revenge” travel as a phenomenon. Pent-up demand for travel continues to build, coupled with the significant savings on vacations this year, could bring back travel with a bang, People could be willing to spend those saved dollars, traveling farther (long haul) and for longer periods than they would typically. “Revenge” sounds menacing, so we prefer to call it “catch up” travel – and we want to do that too! We look forward to catching up with you all in person, hopefully very soon.
From all of us, we wish you and your loved ones a very happy holiday season – and we join the world in hoping for a brighter New Year for all!
Stay safe, stay healthy!
