Tag: UKTourism

A forecast published by Visit Britain shows a gradual increase in the value of inbound tourism during January to March 2021 with a step-change heading into Easter and the spring, if national restrictions are eased as expected, particularly from short-haul European markets. Overall, VisitBritain is forecasting 16.9 million inbound visits in 2021. While this is an increase of 73% this year, it is less than half of the 40.9 million visits the UK saw in 2019. Inbound visitor spending is forecast to reach £9.0 billion in 2021. Although up 59% in 2020, it is less than a third of the ... Read more

Passenger numbers at Heathrow fell by 88% in November, as travel restrictions and a second lockdown took their toll. Based on current forecasts and the continued decline in passengers, the decision has been taken for Terminal 4 to remain non-operational until the end of 2021. Heathrow is calling for targeted, sector-specific Government support to protect jobs and help drive the UK’s economic recovery.  These include full business rates relief for all UK airports and abandoning the disastrous “tourist tax” which will make the UK the only country in Europe not to offer tax-free shopping for international visitors. The move is expected ... Read more

The UK government’s latest move that will slash the travel quarantine lockdown if passengers test negative on the fifth day will provide a much-needed economic boost and is a step towards reviving international travel, says the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). However, while many holidaymakers will embrace the reduced quarantine and will be able to afford the test, which will cost between £65 and £120, WTTC says it won’t be enough to resuscitate meaningful business travel. For that to take place and to significantly aid the Travel & Tourism sector, which has been battered by widespread and uncoordinated travel ... Read more