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AS you’ve probably heard by now, Donald Trump is president-elect of the US following a stunning upset over his opponent Hillary Clinton in the presidential elections on Tuesday.
Asian Correspondent reported that many Asian governments are concerned about the implications of a Trump presidency and his nationalistic rhetoric.
Meanwhile, in the travel industry, Trump’s unexpected win could destabilize strong markets. While change is imminent, it’s still too early to call. But here’s what we know so far.
Cheaper fares to and from the US (for now)
On Tuesday, airlines jumped on the election buzz by launching flash sales to holiday out of the US. For instance, Malaysia’s budget carrier AirAsia introduced a flash sale to remind people not to “trump their getaway plans”.
Low-cost Irish airline Ryanair also launched a sale to coincide with the election result, with fares as low as US$11.
Fluctuating airfares in 2017
Because Trump hasn’t been subtle about his protectionist policies, his presidency could mean extra coddling for the big three US airlines – American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines.
This could lead to reduced competition for the rest of the airline industry, and subsequently, higher fares for the rest of the world.
Unstable tourist numbers
Another possibility is that the weaker dollar could drive more European and Asian travelers into the US, adding to their inbound tourist numbers. This could boost tourism within the country, and potentially spike the exposure of rural areas.
On the other hand, Telegraph reported that a Trump presidency could also appeal to fewer overseas visitors into the US in the future, and a reduced demand in tourist areas may depress prices and have an impact on the cost of transatlantic travel.
It’s unclear whether Chinese tourists would steer clear of the US given Trump’s (very public) anti-China sentiments, but a dip in inbound numbers could cause a spike in Chinese tourists elsewhere, potentially Europe.
The uncertainty of the cruise industry
Oil prices have undergone fluctuations since Tuesday’s election results; prices dramatically dipped after the result was called, but looked to pick up the day after.
Investors and analysts remain nervous about the impact of the Trump presidency on the oil market, but if prices do plunge, the rising cruise industry will continue to boom.
Asia’s cruise industry is the strongest it’s ever been with at least 2.08 million Asians having sailed aboard a cruise ship in 2015. China is at the forefront of the industry, making up almost half of the total passenger count.
However, if prices spike, the cruise industry will most definitely feel the pinch.
Visa restrictions for Muslim travelers
Because of Trump’s blatant anti-Muslim rhetoric, travelers from Muslim countries in Asia – namely Indonesia and Malaysia – are less likely to book holidays to the US. The same can be said for Muslim students from Asia looking to further their studies in the US.
If visa restrictions are imposed by the Trump presidency, signing off papers and waiting for approval could prove a longer process, leaving travelers frustrated.
Given that halal tourism is currently booming and makes up a big slice of the travel market, the US could lose out on significant revenues.
Telegraph reported that tighter immigration control and added security protocols at US airports are also likely, which will contribute to large crowds in major international airports.
Downfall of Trump Hotels
It’s no secret that Trump’s line of luxury hotels has suffered in revenues in the last leg of his presidential campaign.
A recent survey by Travel + Weekly indicated a plummeting of sales as 61 percent of travel agents said they are avoiding Trump-branded hotels and resorts since Trump began his presidential bid.
His shock win could magnify the bitter taste left in many travelers’ mouths, and the “boycott” on his properties could mean major losses for the billionaire.
However, as what could have been a preventative measure, Trump made the decision to omit his name from his newest line of hotels, instead calling it Scion, which means “descendant of a notable family”.
Slate reported that Scion is the rare – and possibly singular – venture of the Trump commercial empire that does not wear Trump’s name as a badge.
The post Post-election thoughts: How would the Trump presidency affect the travel industry? appeared first on Travel Wire Asia.
Source: travelwireasia.com