| Abstract [eng] |
The paper presents the research on the Lithuanian tourism sector during the COVID-19 period. This research encompasses an examination of in-depth questionnaires, as well as discussions held within focus groups using qualitative analysis techniques. These interactions involve state-run tourism entities, specifically Tourist Information Centers in various regions (TICs), as well as enterprises operating within the tourism industry. The profound impact of the pandemic on both societal and economic aspects of our lives is undeniable. The RegTour model, focuses on evaluating domestic tourist destinations while emphasizing sustainability and environmental friendliness. The tourism sector’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic entailed swift implementation of innovations, education, and novel business and management approaches. This framework advocates for sustainable, technologically advanced, and community-centered progress in tourism. The transformation of tourism is intimately connected with synergies between academia, commerce, and the public sector, particularly concerning the integration of novel technological and non-technological innovations, alongside fresh products and services. Integral to this model is the incorporation of societal and technological shifts, elements of resilience for future crises, flexibility, and transformation, alongside key components such as sustainability, adaptability, education, and innovation. The landscape of post-COVID-19 ranging from digitalization and advancements in transportation to shifts in urbanization, lifestyles, global health, and climate patterns. Research findings suggest that tourists exhibited a propensity for adopting new tourism-related services and products amid the pandemic. The need of actions to mitigate the climate change effects in the field of tourism is quite clear, but the Lithuanian experience showed that COVID-19 pandemic slowed down these actions. The implementation of eco-friendly tools and services, as well as substantial investments in climate-mitigation endeavors, encountered delays. Some regional impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic were revealed as well. |
