This too shall pass

To say that it’s a strange time for the travel industry is the understatement of the century. A dystopian poster that states that it is now illegal to go on holiday has been doing the rounds on social media, prompting a mix of disbelief and wry amusement from those in the travel industry. As Derek Jones, the boss of Kuoni, quipped on Twitter: “In 50 years time people will have ironic framed copies of this FCDO poster on their kitchen walls in much the same way that we have Keep Calm and Carry On ones today.” It’s true that it looks more like something from Children of Men than the real world – it’s often hard to come to terms with the fact that this is the current reality. 

Although we have to contend with the residual impact that this and the various, overlapping restrictions are having on consumer confidence, it’s important during these dark months to remember that a world in which we can travel freely will return soon. “The whole experience of lockdown has reminded people of how important travel is,” Mark Tanzer, CEO of ABTA tells us in this issue. “Their desire is still very strong – to go to places they might not have gone to before, or return to places that they’re familiar with. What gives me confidence is there is a lot of demand for when things are eased and the industry is able to move again.”

In this issue, we have all the latest industry news, plus a look at one destination that is finally turning a corner in its battle to control Covid: the United States. As well as asking when British tourists might return there, we look at some of our favourite places in the country – from the dusty wilderness of Arizona to the theme parks of Florida.

Better times are around the corner. We hope you enjoy reading.

Digital first

The February issue is the third in a new interactive digital format. Since (the first) lockdown began and offices shut, we dropped our print edition, leaving us with a digital version that didn’t quite bring our editorial to life. So, we went back to the drawing board. This new technology allows us to create something that combines the best of print with the best of online – that is, a sleek and minimalist design with interactivity and functionality. We are now able to utilise copy, images, video, audio and animations within the frame of individual issues, allowing us to present information in an easy-to-read, enjoyable and quite unique way. Take a look around – we’d love to hear your thoughts. You can get in touch with us at info@abtamag.com.