https://www.news.com.au/national/australias-handling-of-coronavirus-set-to-boost-international-tourism-numbers/news-story/1c2000187fdef659d28934a08bfc6764

https://www.**promotion blocked**.au/2020/11/28/is-the-webjet-asxweb-share-price-a-buy-today/

Australia’s handling of coronavirus set to boost international tourism numbers

There’s a reason why Australia is at the top of the global bucket list for international travellers now and it’s not just our pristine natural wonders.

Exclusive: Australia’s word-class handling of coronavirus will be the drawcard for a new wave of “safety sojourns” when international borders eventually reopen.

Safety and security is the most important factor when choosing a destination and as a result of COVID-19, Australia is at the top of the global bucket list for international travellers.

In an exhaustive survey across 13 countries and involving 20,000 respondents, long held barriers to visiting Australia are now its strengths - with safety, security, world-class nature and wildlife all providing Australia with a competitive advantage.

Devastating though it has been for Australian tourism, the pandemic perversely presents a “re-set” opportunity for the sector, Tourism Australia managing director Phillipa Harrison told News Corp Australia.

In particular, Ms Harrison said it was a chance to focus on sustainable tourism.

Findings from Tourism Australia’s research also found:

* Global tourism looks to recover with demand for sustainable tourism practices is also increasing;

* the United States, United Kingdom and European destinations have all decreased in their appeal;

* New Zealand and Canada round out the top three desired locations by being less populated, nature-based destinations with relatively low COVID-19 impact.

“Australia’s relative isolation from the rest of the world, coupled with our sparsely populated land have never been more precious and desirable amongst travellers,” Ms Harrison said.

“Demand for sustainable tourism practices is also increasing as more and more people acknowledge travel as a positive force for good.

“Based on COVID and what we saw following the summer bushfires, we anticipate that the wellbeing of people, and our natural environment will be key considerations for many travellers in 2021.