Changes are being observed in the tourism market due to the threat of enemy troops invading the territory of Ukraine. Some Ukrainians are starting to postpone trips abroad. At the same time, armors are already arriving for the spring season, which means only a minimal impact of the situation on the market. This opinion was expressed by the president of the Ukrainian Association of Travel Agencies of Ukraine, Anton Rudych.
Ukrainians are used to tourism in military conditions
“There is, of course, a certain influence on the tourist flow of our compatriots abroad. Unfortunately, nervousness, in some cases, does not add optimism to our citizens. But tourism continues, and there is no reason to abandon previously planned trips without penalties,” the expert said.
As the expert notes, Ukraine is not in a military situation for the first time, so panic is kept to a minimum and people continue to travel. And yet, there are citizens who “for insurance” have postponed trips abroad to the spring season until the situation stabilizes.
In addition to the military factor, Rudich also cites a new wave of illness with the Omicron strain, which also causes complications for tourism.
“Of course, there are restrictions for some, some are afraid to travel against the background of a possible military threat, and postpone their trips. But this is only part of the citizens. Others, on the contrary, go. After all, this is not the first day it happens, and people are used to it. Well, now, of course, the number of diseases caused by the Omicron strain of coronavirus, which has increased, still affects it,” the expert said.
On the other hand, the specialist adds, the ease with which the disease progresses in most patients indicates that there was no catastrophic impact on tourism, because Ukrainians easily tolerate the virus, and the level of hospitalizations is low.
In winter, a traditional seasonal decline is observed in Ukraine
In addition to the factors listed above, tourism in Ukraine is currently affected by the observed seasonal decline and market demand. As Rudich notes, January and February are not the most popular tourist months.
“It is important to take into account that there is a seasonal decline. January and February are not the most popular tourist months, but in principle, there is a flow. There are also opportunities for recreation,” the expert notes.
“We have already experienced the difficulties that exist in the country now. Yes, everything will depend on two factors. And if one can somehow be predicted – this is the wave of the coronavirus, then no one can give a forecast for the second factor – the threat of a military invasion of Ukraine. But I think that if there are no provocations in the information field, then people will definitely get used to it. If the situation will not change for the worse, then it should not affect tourism,” the expert summarized.
