As a pandemic rages outside, the tourism industry has been greatly affected. The phrase “travel bubble” has been going around recently, due to the introduction of the new Singapore - Hong Kong travel bubble. But what exactly is a travel bubble and why do we need one? As the first travel bubble opens up between Singapore and Hong Kong, here are some things you should know about this new travel bubble as well as upcoming travel bubbles!
What is a Travel Bubble?
For those unaware, a travel bubble is a partnership between neighbouring countries. These countries are picked as they have shown success in containing their COVID-19 cases within their country’s borders. With this travel bubble, countries will be able to re-establish a connection between them by re-opening up their borders for people to travel freely within this travel bubble zone without having to quarantine. This includes travel by land, air or sea! While borders may open for this travel bubble, their borders still remain closed to visitors from other countries outside the bubble.
This term of travel had started between Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia, back in September 2020. This had started due to concerns about the economic impact of closing the borders - expecting states’ economies to shrink.
By opening borders between countries, this allows an opportunity for companies and businesses to re-open, thus stimulating the economy. Travel bubbles allow tourism to resume safely as well as sustainably!
How do Travel Bubbles Work?
For a bubble to be created, respective countries have to agree to lift their travel ban. However, do take not that if you have symptoms while travelling you will still not be allowed to enter. This also applies to those that have travelled to other countries, not within the travel bubble, within 14 days. While you would not need to be quarantined, there are still mandatory COVID-19 tests you will need to take before and while travelling.
What Are the Benefits of a Travel Bubble?
A travel bubble within two or more countries can help both countries in stimulating their economy as well as help their travel industry. The UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) estimates a 60-80% drop of international tourism from 2019. UNWTO Secretary-General, Zurab Pololikashvili mentioned that ‘tourism has been hit hard, with millions of jobs at risk in one of the most labour-intensive sectors of the economy”. This pandemic is also known as the “worst crisis that international tourism has faced since records began [in 1950]”, stated by UNWTO.
Possible Future Travel Bubbles in Singapore?
Does the idea of a travel bubble appeal to you so far? Well, not only has the Singapore - Hong Kong bubble been set up, there are other travel bubbles which Singaporeans can anticipate!
One of which could be the Singapore - Taiwan travel bubble. Broadcasting Corporation of China (BCC) reported on November 11 that Taiwan’s Minister of Transportation and Communications, Lin Chia-Lung had revealed that Singapore officials have been actively seeking discussions on opening a potential travel bubble with Taiwan. If Taiwan is able to maintain a low risk of COVID-19 infections, Singapore may lift entry restrictions for Taiwanese in the future. Currently (19 Nov), there are 609 total COVID-19 cases in Taiwan, with 545 recovered and 7 deaths.
The Singapore - Hong Kong travel bubble is an important step towards resuming international travel, especially within Asia. As more countries are able to contain their COVID-19 cases, be sure to anticipate even more travel bubbles!
