The impact of COVID-19 on cultural tourism. Introductory article for special issue of tourism culture and communication. THE IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON CULTURAL TOURISM

The coronavirus pandemic (SARS-CoV-2) has been disastrous for cultural tourism worldwide as many cultural tourist venues are concentrated in cities and have had to close along with tourism-related facilities such as hospitality businesses and hotels. There has been a widespread fear of travel and social contact. The comparative research drawn upon in this paper suggests that new trends might be emerging with rural and natural attractions becoming more prominent and a rise in domestic tourism due to the problems of foreign travel. This is associated with increased use of individualised travel and self-catering facilities. There has been a resultant rediscovery of more local scenery and attractions. The greater use of information technology can enhance tourism under these conditions and this is likely a permanent shift. Our research shows how these shifts emerged over the course of different lockdowns. Comparative research suggests that new trends and directions might emerge instead of a post-pandemic reset to what existed before.