The global damage caused by the COVID-19 pandemic to tourism could reach US$4 trillion, according to the World Tourism Organization (WTO) and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).
Imagine, the scenario for host owners, whose idea is precise to share experiences, rooms and even bathrooms.
Finally, in 2022, the expectation of a resumption of tourism is providing a glimpse of hostels finally opening again.
At first glance, it is possible to say that most establishments have adopted sanitary measures to convey an image of safety and care for guests.
In the case of establishments that offer single rooms, it is now common for rooms to be sealed until the guest arrives.
However, in the case of shared rooms, the measures need to be a little more flexible, but no less careful.
For this, among the most common measures being adopted by hostels around the world are:
Incentive to families
A solution found by hostels is to encourage families to stay in rooms that could previously be shared by strangers.
Thus, it is possible to guarantee the occupancy of the rooms without worrying about the close coexistence of unknown people.
Fewer Guests
The dormitories, which used to sleep up to 15 people, now tend to be half full. That’s because many travelers are still afraid to share a room with too many people.
There are those who say they can tolerate at most five other roommates.
Another solution found by hostels in Europe is to separate one bunk bed per person, making one of the beds always free, thus increasing the spacing between guests.
Seals of Approval
Tourism agencies from different cities and countries around the world have offered seals and certifications for products or services that are performed responsibly and that are following the health regulations of the municipality.
Therefore, when giving credibility, make sure that everything is in compliance with what the legislation of your municipality, state or country requires and use this to your advantage by publishing the certificate on your website and at your reception desk. .
Digital Payment
Cash payments have been less and less encouraged in hostels. The pandemic intensified this process that was already coming naturally.
Paying online is almost always an advantage: many hostels offer good discounts for advance bookings made on their websites.
Standard Measures
- See the most common practices adopted in hostels around the world:
- Gel alcohol in all areas of the house, including bedrooms.
- Informational prevention posters spread throughout the premises
- Mandatory masks in common areas
- Limitation on the number of beds in shared rooms
- Daily house cleaning
- Bedding in separate packaging measure that was already adopted before the pandemic
- Temperature measurement at check-in or even for entry at the concierge
- Cutlery packed separately avoiding contact with other people
- Opening windows for natural ventilation