Tourism-dependent regions have encountered greater challenges. For example, in Vancouver, the direct and indirect consumption brought by a large number of international tourists each year can not only increase economic returns, but also increase employment opportunities in Vancouver; tourism has become a catalyst for BC’s economic growth. However, those areas that rely too much on tourism and regard tourism as a pillar industry are prone to hollow tourism structures, and the local economy and tourism-related development are easily fluctuated.
I identified of Covid-19, economic downturn and few job opportunities as threats. When I was selected tourism program, the advisor told me that tourism is a big part of global economy. She told that one in ten jobs are supported by tourism sectors throughout the world. Now, the world’s tourism industry is stuck, people reduce travelwhen so many people have got laid off around the world, I am not ready to face a harsh reality that I might not find a job for a while. People who got laid off will be the ones who get hired first. They have the experience and skills. They already will have connection. I will graduate in August and until then I hope the tourism industry picks up a little bit.
Meanwhile, I am participating in the establishment of a small-scale theme travel website and tourism software. I am also working on creating this online portfolio where I can share information about myself. I can showcase what I have achieved so far in education career and how I can be a good fit for a company. I have learned to be creative. I should not be afraid with these challenges instead I must work around knowing the tourism industry response to the Covid-19 and be prepared. In short, all candidates in job pool will also be new just like me. They will not know what the new consumer preferences after the pandemic are over just like me. I have to keep myself up to date and be prepared for any kind of change.