Post-pandemic hangover and tourism explosion in the Valencian Community

Abstract

Abstract This study investigates the multi-dimensional impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the tourism industry and labor market, with a particular focus on the Valencian Community and its relationship with national tourism trends in Spain. The research reveals through a descriptive and systematic review analysis that strict lockdown measures and mobility restrictions, implemented to contain the spread of the virus, had significant effects on the mental health of the population and on spending and saving patterns. Subsequently, the easing of these restrictions resulted in a noticeable shift in life priorities, manifested in an increase in resignations among employees with permanent contracts and a reallocation of excess savings towards mainly domestic tourism. This phenomenon propelled the recovery of the tourism industry to pre-pandemic levels, despite the inflationary context and the rise in energy and fuel prices. The findings also indicate that the Valencian Community, following national trends, plays a key role in strengthening Spain’s tourism brand. These insights point to a need for future research to explore shifts in tourism motivations and labor implications in the sector in the post-pandemic environment.