Island to Island Travel: The Role of Domestic Tourism for the Swift Recovery of Island Tourism

Abstract

Domestic tourism has been a prominent form of tourism in the archipelagos. Its dominance has at times been considered to be a limitation causing seasonality. The pandemic has changed many things in this regard. Travelling closer to home and domestic tourism have become even more the norm, and domestic tourism is now seen as a blessing. The role of domestic tourism to restart island tourism was investigated by using a group of islands in the central Mediterranean region. Interviews held with stakeholders and secondary data have shown that island to island domestic tourism was key for such destinations to restart tourism – a major economic sector on such islands. As the pandemic rages on, domestic tourism is expected to increase. This is galvanised by the safe environment found on islands where local populations have been fully vaccinated, the pristine natural environment which is highly sought after following a long period of staying indoors, opportunities of self-catering accommodation with full amenities as well as connections gained between islands. Domestic tourism might be also favoured due to its potential to contribute in reducing emissions which is key for the tourism sector to contribute to the European Green Deal targets. However, several challenges need to be addressed. These include addressing seasonality by targeting domestic tourists also off season through adequate packages focusing on diverse niches comprising ecotourism, ensuring reliable and sustainable sea transport services and better management of the natural environment.

Citation

Agius, K. (2022), "Island to Island Travel: The Role of Domestic Tourism for the Swift Recovery of Island Tourism", Mohanty, P., Sharma, A., Kennell, J. and Hassan, A. (Ed.) The Emerald Handbook of Destination Recovery in Tourism and Hospitality, Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 397-415. https://doi.org/10.1108/978-1-80262-073-320221023