When global lockdowns started to occur in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the tourism industry was subsequently put on hold. Now that travel restrictions are lifted around the world, people are traveling once again. However, travelers are now confronted with another harsh reality- rising travel costs.
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With travel restrictions now lifted, people are traveling abroad once again. Though, those looking to do a group travel tour during the summer months may have to think twice. That’s because these tour prices have increased by nearly 50%. These costs include transportation, food expenses, lodging, and everything needed for a successful trip.
A five-day, four-night trip to Japan would have cost NT$30,000 (US$1,000) before the pandemic, but, now, the same trip may cost around NT$46,000 (US$1,500).
A travel agent says while the post-pandemic travel costs are already higher than the pre-pandemic prices, traveling during the summer will be even more costly.
Another travel agent attributes the rising prices to personnel shortage in the tourism industry and the global inflation.
Though a sense of normalcy is returning in this post-pandemic era, travel costs may still need some time before the pressure eases.