VI
EN
THOUSANDS OF TOURISTS FLOODED AUSTRALIA ON ITS FIRST DAY OF REOPENING.
Over 1.23 million people from around the world have been granted visas allowing them to enter Australia since February 21st. Those who have been fully vaccinated are exempt from quarantine and can travel to most states (except Western Australia, which remains closed until March 3rd). Those who have not been vaccinated are also allowed entry, provided they quarantine in a hotel for 7-14 days, depending on their health status upon arrival.
One of the first flights to Australia on February 21st, shortly after the "Land of the Kangaroo" reopened to international tourism. (Photo: Nine)
In the first 24 hours after Australia officially reopened its borders, approximately 56 flights arrived from the UK, the US, Japan, Canada, and other countries, bringing thousands of Australians back home from overseas. Twenty-six of these flights landed at Sydney International Airport, the capital city of New South Wales.
Australian Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Dan Tehan was present at Sydney International Airport on the morning of February 21st, joining in welcoming the first passengers to the "Land of Kangaroos" after more than 700 days of closure.
A traditional Australian welcome for the first travelers arriving at Sydney International Airport on the morning of February 21. (Photo: AAP/AP)
In traditional Australian style, visitors were greeted by members of the Surf and Rescue organization and presented with jars of Vegemite and souvenir koala figurines. Meanwhile, the kangaroo mascot of Qantas Airlines warmly waved and the famous DJ Sasha Moon performed a mix of warm Australian classics.
Many smiles mixed with tears of emotion, tight hugs, and sweet kisses took place in an open and warm atmosphere since the first Qantas flight from Los Angeles (USA) landed at Sydney International Airport at 6:30 am on February 21st.
EXPERIENCE FAMOUS AUSTRALIAN DESTINATIONS IN A NEW LOOK
“We boarded the first flight to see our daughter and granddaughter, who is now almost three years old, whom we haven’t seen since she was just one month old,” shared Canadian couple Doug and Joanne.
Japanese tourist Kimmy and her 5-year-old daughter Bibby expressed their joy upon disembarking at Sydney airport: “We came here for a holiday. It’s exciting because this is Bibby’s first time flying.”
Mr. and Mrs. Yin and Chi Lam (right) welcome their daughter and granddaughter from New York (USA) to Sydney International Airport on February 21, shortly after Australia reopened its borders. (Photo: Guardian)
Australia closed its borders in March 2020 to curb the surge in Covid-19 infections. This strict lockdown earned the country the nickname "Australia's Fortress." According to estimates by the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, this policy cost businesses approximately US$3.6 billion per month, with the tourism industry being particularly hard hit.
Tourism has traditionally been a driving force for the Australian economy. Before Covid-19, Australia welcomed 9.3 million international tourists, generating $44.6 billion in revenue during the 2018-2019 fiscal year. However, in the 2020-2021 fiscal year, tourism revenue plummeted by 41% to $81 billion.tourism.australia.
Scenes of emotional and heartwarming reunions at Sydney Airport in November 2021 were repeated on February 21, 2022, after Australia officially reopened its borders. (Photo: Getty)
Although Australia has been implementing a phased reopening plan since November 2021, the number of flights to and from the "Land of the Kangaroo" remains significantly lower than before Covid-19. However, millions of international tourists can now return to experience and explore Australia's famous destinations in a new light.
