The Role of Health and Safety Measures in Restoring Tourist Confidence

Abstract

In this research, we examined how health and safety measures helped revive travelers’ trust in order to bring people back to hotels, guesthouses and rental homes across the world after major disruptions. By analyzing a unique dataset of 3.4 million bookingobservations on platforms such as Expedia, Booking.com, Airbnb, and 2,189 survey responses from travelers across 28 countries, we gained detailed insight into guests’ perceptions of safety that made them comfortable booking a trip. Our results suggest clear patterns emerged, and evidence shows that visible proof –like a formal safety certificate, post sanitation protocols, and transparent proof of communication –influenced traveler comfort and reservation behaviours. Likewise, our conjoint analysis foundseveral generational gaps –with young guests more likely to embrace technology-based solutions like contactless check ins and app-based health forms, while older guests preferred more traditional methods like visible cleaning processes and mandated vaccinations for staff. Research based on 25,000 TripAdvisor reviews revealed that when travelers were assured that cleanliness was prioritized, we were all more prone to provide higher ratings and return again.