Navigating the Storm: Mitigating the Effects of Reduced International Tourism in the Post-COVID-19 Era

The COVID-19 pandemic massively impacted the global tourism industry, resulting in mass economic downturns and social disruptions. This study examines the strategies available for mitigating the effect of reduced international travel in the post-COVID-19 era. This is to help mitigate the destructive effects of this global situation on their economy. Some of the challenges faced by the tourism sector during the COVID-19 era include border closure, travel restrictions, and a reduction in consumer confidence. Though this was relaxed globally in the latter part of the year 2020, many countries implemented policies that have continued to adversely impact international tourism. As a review work, the study consulted relevant scholarly works on the subject matter and explored case studies and best practices from Lagos and Abuja in Nigeria, to propositions on policy recommendations to governments, stakeholders in the tourism sector, and international agencies aimed at reviving the tourism sector to the best possible sustainability. These recommendations include enhancement of health and safety protocols, targeted marketing campaigns, support for small and medium enterprise development, and synergy and innovation in the ecosystem of tourism. Tourism stakeholders can devise ways of building more resilient and sustainable tourism by following these strategies to circumvent challenges in the pandemic.