IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON TOURISM IN GEORGIA-AN OVERVIEW

Abstract

Coronavirus has posed a great challenge to the whole world, including Georgia. The restrictions have taken a heavy toll on the tourism industry worldwide. It has been clear since the spring of the current year that the mass recovery of international tourism will not be possible by 2020. Consequently, the necessity has led to changes, especially in the direction of domestic tourism. Countries apply different strategies. This review article is based on the results of a mini-survey and data from the National Statistics Office. It is analyzed what impact COVID-19 had on local tourism in Georgia, what is the public mood, which places were visited, where did the epidemic break out after the restrictions were lifted, what are the statistics of international tourists in Georgia, etc. Besides, tourism support measures developed around the world are discussed.