Natural disasters can have a devastating effect on tourism. An example of long-term effects includes the Queensland floods and the Christchurch earthquake. Recently, Australia’s experience with the disasters has provided valuable lessons on how locations can recover after a crisis.

Image Source : “Environment: Natural Disasters.” Onestopenglish, 20 Apr. 2011, http://www.onestopenglish.com/lessons/environment-natural-disasters/551224.article.

According to Dr. Walter’s research, which was carried out with her colleagues Dr. Judith Mair and Associate Professor Brent Ritchie, there are a number of common steps which locations can take to limit the damage and project a more positive image. The first way to rebuild tourism is by managing the media. This is achieved by helping journalists understand the damage. With accurate and detailed information, balanced coverage about the topic will be achieved, and there would be more positive stories rather than continually negative reports.

Another way is by utilizing social media in order to look at the public opinions and promote the location in a positive manner. Also, not discounting after a disaster is a way to keep tourists as discounting can devalue a location in the eyes of visitors. Because of this, not having destinations at cheap prices will allow the destination to be higher in value. Lastly, having a plan for the disaster is useful. This includes having cancellation policies, evacuation procedures, and protocols when the business doesn’t have tourist income. Lastly, as there is an increase in the number and intensity of natural disasters, it is important to always look back at the past in order for a fast recovery from disasters in tourism.

References: “Rebuilding Tourism in the Wake of Disaster.” Business School – University of Queensland, 27 Feb. 2019, business.uq.edu.au/momentum/rebuilding-tourism-wake-disaster.

The Deadliest Natural Disasters iGabriela Nagle Alverio, Jeannie Sowers, and Reva Dhingra. “The Year That Shook the Rich: A Review of Natural Disasters in 2011.” Brookings, 29 July 2016, http://www.brookings.edu/articles/the-year-that-shook-the-rich-a-review-of-natural-disasters-in-2011/.