Venezuela's tourism industry is experiencing a sharp downturn following the suspension of multiple international flights after the United States claimed the closure of Venezuelan airspace.
Local travel agencies have reported significant booking cancellations and revenue losses. Jose Zambrano, director of a travel agency in Caracas, said the sharp reduction in international flights has led to a steep drop in overseas bookings.
"The current situation has clearly affected these source markets. We've already seen around 1,200 reservations canceled, and undoubtedly revenue for the peak season has taken a major hit. About 70 to 80 percent of our expected income from this season's bookings has been lost," he explained.
Despite the decline in international visitors, major tourist sites in Caracas, such as the Avila Mountain National Park in the city’s north, remain open, with domestic tourists now making up the majority of visitors.
Gloria Andres Lopez, an operator of the park's cable car system, said, "Our operations continue normally from Wednesday through Sunday. On weekends, we can receive between 5,000 and 6,000 visitors. We typically welcome about 20 to 30 international tourists per week, though that number rises noticeably during peak tourist seasons."
An international traveler Rafael Brochero shared his experience touring around in Caracas.
"I flew from Curacao to Caracas on Dec. 2. Everything has been excellent and calm here, though I can see visitor numbers have dipped somewhat. Hopefully the situation improves soon," he said.
Local vendors have also felt the impact. "Our souvenirs, handmade crafts and warm clothing used to be popular with international visitors. Almost every tourist who approached our stall would buy something. But with the airspace closed, they can't come anymore," said Ana Maria Lopez, a souvenir seller in the park.
On Nov. 29, the United States claimed that the airspace above and surrounding Venezuela should be considered closed "in its entirety". The Venezuelan government issued a statement strongly opposing these aforementioned remarks of the United States, saying such comments violate the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and international law. Many countries in Latin America and the Caribbean have expressed their opposition to the U.S. remarks.
Venezuela's tourism sector feels impact of US-Venezuela tensions
Venezuela's tourism sector feels impact of US-Venezuela tensions
