Will 2021 allow us to breathe easy?
Usually, when the calendar flips to a new year, we hold our breath anticipating some changes – for the better. Nothing really good happened overnight though. In fact, after COVID-19 literally took our breath from us, we continue to wear masks (some dumb ones still don’t), we hold our breath, and we hold all that anxiety. “When will this end?” seems to on everyone’s mind.’
The beginning of 2021 is no different. It will be centered on our core values: taking care of our people and taking care of our guests. Last year we learnt that connecting with our people and our customers, as we traditionally did in the past, was taboo. No touching. No hugging – what’s better than a warm hug to communicate so many things without exchanging any words? Humans are social animals and right now we can’t connect with each other…and that hurts – especially for those in the hospitality industry.
Joining the 3 W’s; wash your hands, wear your mask, watch your distance is the fourth W – wait for the jab, after news of the vaccine rollout occurring in some parts of the world brought a sliver of joy over the New Year.
While I am somewhat optimistic that this year will be better than the last, the continued storm from COVID-19, raging since last year, will not abate until we reach a turning point with widely available vaccinations that jump-start a significant return to travel. Until then, the first phase during the New Year will focus on ensuring the safety and health of both staff and customers, whilst battling the cash flow supply.
In short, 2020 was a tough year for the hospitality industry and 2021 will also be another difficult year – for the first six to seven months, at least, where, we will continue to experience the same uncertainty and anxiety we saw in 2020. Until borders open, more people are vaccinated and are comfortable to resume travel; we are all likely to be in a tight spot, especially when it comes to making plans for the year.
For now, airlines require pre-departure and post-arrival testing of travelers for the coronavirus. However, I foresee that any requirement to travel during the latter part of 2021 or in early 2022 will be getting vaccinated as well. Certain major airlines including Quantas for example, have already indicated that this will be on the cards at some point in time.
Come to think of it, we will encounter a situation where people will be required to be both vaccinated and tested when travelling. And that’s something that’s never happened with any other disease.
While I am optimistic this will be a year of recovery, the continued uncertainty of the pandemic means we’ll need to be nimble, ready to adjust our course and adapt to an ever-changing environment.
Ilzaf Keefahs – is a free lance writer who enjoys focusing on hospitality related matters that he is passionate about, and likes to share his views with hoteliers and customers alike. He delves into the heart of hospitality to figure out both customer service and consumer trends that impact the industry.
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