briefly explain the different forms of tourism in 600 words

Tourism – Definition, Types & Forms, History & Importance of Tourism

Tourism is one of the world’s fastest-growing industries and a major foreign exchange and employment generation for many countries. It is one of the most remarkable economic and social phenomena.

The word ‘tour’ is derived from the Latin word tornus, meaning ‘a tool for making a circle.’ Tourism may be defined as the movement of people from their usual place of residence to another place ( with the intention to return) for a minimum period of twenty-four hours to a maximum of six months for the sole purpose of leisure and pleasure.

According to WTO (1993), ” Tourism encompasses the activities of persons traveling and staying in places outside their usual environment for not more than one consecutive year for leisure, business, and other purposes.”

The Rome conference on tourism in 1963 defined tourism as ‘ a visit to a country other than one’s own or where one usually resides and works. This definition, however, did not take into account domestic tourism, which has become a vital money-spinner and job generator for the hospitality industry.

The UNWTO defines tourists as ‘ people who travel to and stay in place outside their usual environment for not more than one consecutive year for leisure, business and other purposes not related to the exercise of an activity remunerated from within the place visited.

According to the Tourism Society of Britain ,” tourism is the temporary short-period movement of people to destination outside the places where they usually live, work; and activities during their stay at these destinations.” This definition includes the movement of people for all purposes.

The development of technology and transportation infrastructure, such as jumbos jets, low-cost airlines, and more accessible airports, have made tourism affordable and convenient. There have been changes in lifestyle – for example, now retiree-age people sustain tourism around the year. The sale of tourism products on the internet, besides the aggressive marketing of the tour operators and travel agencies , has also contributed to the growth of tourism.

27 September is celebrated as world tourism every year. This date was chosen as on that day in 1970, the Statutes of UNWTO were adopted. The purpose of this day is to raise awareness of the role of tourism within the international community.

History of Travel and Tourism

Inbound tourism, outbound tourism, domestic tourism, forms of tourism, classification of tourism, nature of tourism, importance of tourism, economic impacts, social impacts, cultural impacts, environmental impact, industries related to tourism, tourism products.

Travel is as old as mankind on earth. At the beginning of his existence, man roamed about the planet’s surface in search of food, shelter, security, and better habitat. However, with time, such movements were transformed into wanderlust.

About five thousand years ago, climate changes, dwindling food and shelter conditions hostile invaders made the people leave their homes to seek refuge elsewhere like the Aryans left their homes in Central Asia due to climate changes. Perhaps, this leads to the development of commerce, trade, and industry.

Religion, education, and cultural movement began during the Hindu and Chinese civilizations. Christian missionaries, Buddhist monks, and others traveled far and wide carrying religious messages and returned with fantastic images and opinions about alien people.

For centuries movement of people continued to grow due to the efficiency of transport and the assistance and safety with which the people could travel. By the end of the 15th century, Italy had become Europe’s intellectual and cultural center. It represented the classical heritage both for the intelligentsia and the aristocracy.

During the 16th century, travel came to be considered an essential part of the education of every young Englishman. Travel thus became a means of self-development and education in its broadest sense. The educational travel was known as the ‘ Grand Tour .’

The industrial revolution brought about significant changes in the pattern and structure of British society. Thus, the economy of Britain was greatly responsible for the beginning of modern tourism. It also created a large and prosperous middle class. Because of remarkable improvement in transportation systems in the latter half of the 18th century and the first quarter of the 19th century, an increasing number of people began to travel for pleasure.

Travel was inspired initially by the need for survival (food, shelter, and security), the desire to expand trade, and the quest to conquer. As the transportation system improved, the curiosity for transforming the vast and virgin world into a close neighborhood created a new industry, i.e., Travel and Tourism .

However, the developments of rails, roads, steamships, automobiles, and airplanes helped to spread technology across the globe. Earlier travel was a privilege only for wealthy people, but with the industrial revolution, the scenario altogether changed. Transportation, as well as accommodation, became affordable to middle and working-class citizens.

Essentially, with the development of jet travel, communication, new technology, tourism, and travel became the world’s largest and fastest-growing industry.

Travel and tourism have recently emerged as a dominant economic force on the global scene, accounting for more than 12% of total world trade and growing at 8 percent annually.

Types of Tourism

Tourism has two types and many forms based on the purpose of visit and alternative forms of tourism. Tourism can be categorized as international and domestic tourism .

Tourism has two types and various forms. Based on the movement of people, tourism is categorized into two kinds. These are the following:

International Tourism

When people visit a foreign country, it is referred to as International Tourism . To travel to a foreign country, one needs a valid passport, visa, health documents, foreign exchange, etc.

International tourism is divided into two types; Inbound Tourism & Outbound Tourism.

This refers to tourists of outside origin entering a particular country. Traveling outside their host/native country to another country is called inbound tourism for the country where they are traveling. For example, when a tourist of Indian origin travels to Japan, it is  Inbound tourism for Japan because foreign tourists come to Japan.

This refers to tourists traveling from the country of their origin to another country. When tourists travel to a foreign region, it is outbound tourism for their own country because they are going outside their country. For example, when a tourist from India travels to Japan, it is outbound tourism for India and Inbound tourism for Japan.

The tourism activity of the people within their own country is known as domestic tourism . Traveling within the same country is easier because it does not require formal travel documents and tedious formalities like compulsory health checks and foreign exchange. A traveler generally does not face many language problems or currency exchange issues in domestic tourism.

Tourism has various forms based on the purpose of the visit and alternative forms. These are further divided into many types according to their nature. Forms of tourism are the following:

Some most basic forms of tourism are the following:

• Adventure Tourism
• Atomic Tourism
• Bicycle Tours
• Beach Tourism
• Cultural Tourism
• Industrial Tourism
• Medical Tourism
• Religious Tourism
• Rural Tourism
• Sex Tourism
• Space Tourism
• Sports Tourism
• Sustainable Tourism
• Virtual Tourism
• War Tourism
• Wildlife Tourism

Tourism can be classified into six distinct categories according to the purpose of travel. These are the following:

1) Recreational : Recreational or leisure tourism takes a person away from the humdrum of everyday life. In this case, people spend their leisure time in the hills, sea beaches, etc.

2) Cultural tourism satisfies cultural and intellectual curiosity and involves visits to ancient monuments, places of historical or religious importance, etc.

3) Sports/Adventure : Trips taken by people with a view to playing golf, skiing and hiking, fall within this category.

4) Health : Under this category, people travel for medical, treatment or visit places where there are curative possibilities, for example, hot springs, spa yoga, etc.

5) Convention Tourism : It is becoming an increasingly important component of travel. People travel within a country or overseas to attend conventions relating to their business, profession, or interest.

6) Incentive Tourism : Holiday trips are offered as incentives by major companies to dealers and salesmen who achieve high targets in sales. This is a new and expanding phenomenon in tourism, These are in lieu of cash incentives or gifts, Today incentive tourism is a 3 billion dollar business in the USA alone.

Tourism as a socio-economic phenomenon comprises the activities and experiences of tourists and visitors away from their home environment and are serviced by the travel and tourism industry and host destination. The sum total of this activity experience and services can be seen as a tourism product.

The tourism system can be described in terms of supply and demand. Tourism planning should strive for a balance between demands and supply. This requires an understanding not only of market characteristics and trends but also of the planning process to meet the market needs.

Often tourists from core generating markets are identified as the demand side; the supply side includes all facilities, programs, attractions, and land uses designed and managed for the visitors. These supply-side factors may be under the control of private enterprises, non-profit organizations, and the government. New and innovative forms of partnerships are also evolving to ensure the sustainable development and management of tourism-related resources.

The supply and demand side can be seen to be linked by flows of resources such as capital, labor, goods, and tourist expenditures into the destination, and flows of marketing, promotion, tourist artifacts, and experiences from the destination back into the tourist generating region.

In addition, some tourist expenditures may leak back into the visitors generating areas through repatriation of profits of foreign tourism investors and payment for improved goods and services provided to tourists at the destination. Transportation provides an important linkage both to and from the destination.

For planning purposes, the major components that comprise the supply side are:

• Various modes of transportation and other tourism-related infrastructure.
• Tourist information.
• Marketing and promotion.
• The community of communities within the visitor’s destination area.
• The political and institutional frameworks for enabling tourism.

The tourism system is both dynamic and complex due to many factors linked to it and because of the existence of many sectors contributing to its success. These factors and sectors are linked to the provision of the tourist experience and the generation of tourism revenue and markets .

The dynamic nature of the tourism system makes it imperative to scan the external and internal environment of the destinations on a regular basis so as to make changes when necessary to ensure a healthy and viable tourism industry.

Thus, it is now an accepted fact that tourism development can no longer work in isolation of the environment and the local communities, nor can it ignore the social and cultural consequences of tourism.

Tourism and hospitality , which are inextricably linked to each other, are among the major revenue-earning enterprises in the world. They happen to be among the top employers too. There has been an upmarket trend in tourism over the last few decades as travel has become quite common. People travel for business, vacation, pleasure, adventure, or even medical treatments.

Tourism constitutes an important industry today. It has opened up new vistas for the play of economic emancipation. It provides a very potent contribution by strengthening and developing the financial resources of a country. Moreover, it is a process in which mutual material and mental benefits occur. Furthermore,

• Tourism fetches foreign exchange in the form of invisible exports, which results in the manifold progress of the nation.
• Tourism generates jobs. These employments are the main contribution of tourism to generating national income. But one should remember that employment in the tourism industry is often seasonal.
• Tourism often leads to the commercialization of art forms and especially handicrafts. Art items with cultural or religious meaning are sought by tourists as souvenirs. As more and more tourists visit a destination, souvenir production has increased, often leading to mass production. This production also generates income.

With several business-related activities associated with tourism, the industry has a tremendous potential to generate employment as well as earn foreign exchange. Many countries, such as Mauritius, Malaysia, Singapore, Fiji, and the Caribbean, whose economies are primarily driven by tourism. Tourism can contribute to the economic growth of a country in the followings ways:

Employment Generation

It creates a large number of jobs among direct services providers (such as hotels , restaurants, travel agencies , tour operators , guide and tour escorts, etc.) and among indirect services providers (such as suppliers to the hotels and restaurants, supplementary accommodation, etc.)

Infrastructure Development

Tourism spurs infrastructure development. In order to become an important commercial or pleasure destination, any location would require all the necessary infrastructure, like good connectivity via rail, road, and air transport , adequate accommodation, restaurants, a well-developed telecommunication network, and, medical facilities, among others.

Foreign Exchange

The people who travel to other countries spend a large amount of money on accommodation, transportation, sightseeing, shopping, etc. Thus, an inbound tourist is an important source of foreign exchange for any country.

The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) predict in 1997 that the twenty-first-century economy would be dominated by three industries: telecommunications, information technology, and tourism. The travel and tourism industry has grown by 500 percent in the last 25 years.

Now withstanding this bright outlook and prospects, the tourism and hospitality industries are very vulnerable to the fluctuations of national economies and happenings in the world, especially terrorist attacks that have at times dealt severe blows to business.

In recent years, there have been a few setbacks in tourism, such as the terrorist siege of the Taj and Oberoi in Mumbai, India (26 November 2008); the attack on the World Trade Centre in the United States of America (11 September 2001); bombing in a hotel on the Indonesian island of Bali (12 October 2002); tsunami in Southeast Asia and South Asia on 26 December 2004, in which thousands of the lives where lost and consequently tourism was hit. Nonetheless, the sector is now getting back to business.

Impacts of Tourism

Tourism is a multi-dimensional activity. The scope of tourism activities is so wide and varied that it cannot be restricted to any particular field of activity. Tourism has ramifications in almost all sectors and is influenced by the performance of each of these sectors directly or indirectly. Tourism in any country can be an apt reflection of the nation’s economic and social endowment apart from its natural wealth.

Tourism has vast potential to bring about changes in the country’s economic, environmental, societal, and cultural edifice. Tourism has two basics: the supply of facilities and the demand for participation. The twin market forces of supply and demand interact to produce tourism patterns. These patterns are associated with economic, social, cultural, environmental, and ecological impacts.

Establishing or developing a tourism industry involves expenditure, gains, costs, and benefits. If these impacts are considered from the outset of planning, strengths and opportunities can be maximized while weaknesses and threats can be minimized.

Each destination will be different in terms of tourism characteristics . The cost and benefits of tourism will vary in each destination and can change over time, depending on tourism and other activities in a destination’s local and regional context.

Tourism activities impact the economy of the country as well as the local economy of the destination.

Economics Benefits

• Tourism generates local employment, directly in the tourism sector and in the support and resource management sectors.
• Tourism stimulates profitable domestic industries, hotels and other lodging facilities, restaurants and food services, transportation systems, handicrafts, and guide services.
• Tourism generates foreign exchange for the country and injects capital and new money into the local economy.
• Tourism helps to diversify the local economy.
• Improved tourism infrastructure.
• Increase tax revenues from tourism.

Economic Costs

• Higher demand created by tourism activity may increase the price of land, housing, and a range of commodities necessary for daily life.
• Demands for health services provision and police service increase during the tourist seasons at the expense of the local tax base.

Tourism also affects the society of the destination in good as well as bad ways. It benefits and costs the local communities.

Social Benefits

• The quality of a community can be enhanced by economic diversification through tourism.
• Recreational and cultural facilities created for tourism can be used by local communities as well as domestic/international visitors.
• Public space may be developed and enhanced through tourism activity.
• Tourism Enhances the local community’s esteem and provides an opportunity for greater understanding and communication among people of diverse backgrounds.

Social Costs

• Rapid tourism growth can result in the inability of local amenities and institutions to meet service demands.
• Without proper planning and management, litter, vandalism, and crime often accompany tourism development.
• Tourism can bring overcrowding and traffic congestion.
• Visitors bring with them material wealth and apparent freedom. The youths of the host community are particularly susceptible to the economic expectations these tourists bring which can result in complete disruption of traditional community ways of life.
• The community structure may change, e.g. community bonds, demographics, and institutions.
• The authenticity of the social and cultural environment can be changed to meet tourism demands.

Tourism activities also affect the culture of the host country. There are many positive and negative cultural impacts of tourism.

Cultural Benefits

• Tourism can enhance local cultural awareness.
• Tourism can generate revenue to help pay for the preservation of archaeological sites, historic buildings, and districts.
• Despite criticism about the alteration of cultures to unacceptable levels, the sharing of cultural knowledge and experience can be beneficial for hosts and guests of tourism destinations and can result in the revival of local traditions and crafts.

Cultural Costs

• Youth in the community begin to emulate the speech and attire of tourists.
• Historic sites can be damaged through tourism development and pressures.
• There can be long-term damage to cultural traditions and the erosion of cultural values, resulting in cultural change beyond a level acceptable to the host destination.

Tourism impacts the environment in positive as well as negative ways. These impacts are following below.

Environmental Benefits

• Parks and nature preserves may be created and ecological preservation supported as a necessity for nature-based tourism.
• Improved waste management can be achieved.
• Increased awareness and concern for the environment can result from nature-based tourism activities and development.

Environmental Costs

• A negative change in the physical integrity of the area.
• Rapid development, over-development, and overcrowding can forever change the physical environment and ecosystems of an area.
• Degradation of parks and preserves.

Over the years, tourism has become a popular global activity. Depending upon the nature and purpose of their travel, tourists, need and demand certain facilities and services. This has given rise to a wide range of commercial activities that have acquired industry proportions. Thus travel and tourism nowadays represent a broad range of related industries.

Hotels are a commercial establishment that provides accommodation, meals, and other guest services. In the travel and tourism industry, the hotel industry plays a very significant role, as all tourists need a place to stay at their destinations, and require many more services and facilities to suit their specific needs and tastes.

Restaurants

Restaurants are retail establishments that serve prepared food and beverages to customers. In the travel and tourism industry, restaurants and other food and beverage outlets are very important as tourists like to experiment with the local cuisines of the places they are visiting.

Retail and Shopping

The retail industry is very important as tourists shop for their day-to-day necessities as well as look for mementos and souvenirs. In recent years, some cities in the world have been promoted as shopping destinations to attract people with a penchant for shopping by offering various products, such as garments, electronic goods, jewelry, and antiques. New York, Paris, London, and Milan in Italy are famous as fashion havens of the world.

Transportation

It is the movement of people and goods from one place to another. A well-developed transport industry, as well as infrastructure, is integral to the success of any travel and tourism enterprise.

Travel Agencies

A travel agency is a retailing business that sells travel-related products and services, particularly package tours, to customers on the behalf of suppliers such as airlines, car rentals, cruise liners, hotels, railways, and sightseeing.

Travel agencies play a very important role as they plan out the itinerary of their clients and make the necessary arrangements for their travel, stay, and sightseeing, besides facilitating their passport, visa, etc.

Tour Operators

A tour operator assembles the various elements of a tour. It typically combines tour and travel components to create a holiday. Tour operators play an important role in the travel and tourism industry.

Tourist Destinations

A tourist attraction is a place of interest for tourists, typically for its inherent or exhibited cultural value, historical significance, nature or building beauty or amusement opportunities. These are the basic fundamentals of the tourism industry.

Cultural Industries

Cultural or creative industries are responsible for the creation, production, and distribution of goods and services that are cultural in nature and usually protected by intellectual property rights. As tourists like to visit places of cultural significance and soak in the culture of the area, the cultural industry is very important to travel and tourism.

Leisure, Recreation, and Sport

Leisure or free time is a period of time spent out of work and essential domestic activity. Recreation or fun is spending time in a manner designed for therapeutic refreshment of the body or mind. While leisure is more like a form of entertainment or rest, recreation requires active participation in a refreshing and diverting manner.

As people in the world’s wealthier regions lead an increasingly sedentary lifestyle, the need for recreation has increased. These play a significant role in the travel and tourism sector.

A tourism/tourist product can be defined as the sum of the physical and psychological satisfaction it provides to tourists, during their ‘traveling and sojourn’ en route at the destinations.

Since the travel and tourism industry is an agglomeration of too many sectors that promote travel-related services. These sectors are referred to as travel vendors and their services and goods are called ‘travel products’. A tourism product includes five main components such as physical plant, services, hospitality, freedom of choice, and a sense of involvement.

Thus, whatever the natural and man-made resources and services brought about the consumption of tourists are called tourism products .

Charecterstatics Of Tourism Products

By now, you must have understood what a tourism product is. Now let us look at some of its characteristics:-

1) Intangible : Tourism is an intangible product means tourism is such a kind of product that can not be touched or seen and there is no transfer of ownership, But the facilities are available for a specified time and for a specified use. For e.g. a room in the hotel is available for a specified time.

2) Psychological : The main motive to purchase a tourism products is to satisfy the psychological need after using the product, by getting an experience while interacting with a new environment. And experiences also motivate others to purchase that product.

3) Highly Perishable : Tourism product is highly perishable in nature means one can not store the product for a long time. Production and consumption take place while a tourist is available. If the product remains unused, the chances are lost i.e. if tourists do not purchase it.

A travel agent or tour operator who sells a tourism product cannot store it. Production can only take place if the customer is actually present. And once consumption begins, it cannot be stopped, interrupted, or modified. If the product remains unused, the chances are lost i.e. if tourists do not visit a particular place, the opportunity at that time is lost. It is due to tourism reason that heavy discount is offered by hotels and transport-generating organizations during the offseason.

4) Composite Product : Tourist product is a combination of different products. It has not a single entity in itself. In the experience of a visit to a particular place, various service providers contribute like transportation The tourist product cannot be provided by a single enterprise, unlike a manufactured product.

The tourist product covers the complete experience of a visit to a particular place. And many providers contribute to the tourism experience. For instance, the airline supplies seats, a hotel provides rooms and restaurants, travel agents make bookings for stay and sightseeing, etc.

5) Unstable Demand : Tourism demand is influenced by seasonal, economic political, and other factors. There are certain times of the year that see greater demand than others. At these times there is a greater strain on services like hotel bookings, employment, the transport system, etc.

• English (UK)
• English (CA)
• Deutsch (DE)
• Deutsch (CH)

8 types of tourism that you need to know

The three tourism categories, domestic tourism, inbound tourism, outbound tourism, the 8 types of tourism according to motivation, business tourism.

• Meet with business partners or prospects
• Attend an event, conference, or trade show
• Visit another office location of the same company

See how to save money on business travel

Leisure tourism, shopping tourism, cultural tourism, sports tourism, rural tourism, mountain tourism, urban tourism, many people travel – but for completely different reasons.

Make business travel simpler. Forever.

• See our platform in action . Trusted by thousands of companies worldwide, TravelPerk makes business travel simpler to manage with more flexibility, full control of spending with easy reporting, and options to offset your carbon footprint.
• Find hundreds of resources on all things business travel, from tips on traveling more sustainably, to advice on setting up a business travel policy, and managing your expenses. Our latest e-books and blog posts have you covered.
• Never miss another update. Stay in touch with us on social for the latest product releases, upcoming events, and articles fresh off the press.

5 inefficient processes affecting your business and how to fix them

Duty of care in the workplace: everything you need to know

CEO Roles and Responsibilities: conquer your role as CEO

• Business Travel Management
• Offset Carbon Footprint
• Flexible travel
• Travelperk Sustainability Policy
• Corporate Travel Resources
• Corporate Travel Glossary
• For Travel Managers
• For Finance Teams
• For Travelers
• Thoughts from TravelPerk
• Careers Hiring
• User Reviews
• Integrations
• Privacy Center
• Help Center
• Privacy Policy
• Cookies Policy
• Modern Slavery Act | Statement
• Supplier Code of Conduct

Guide To Different Types Of Tourism And Their Features

Home » Corporate Travel » Guide To Different Types Of Tourism And Their Features

Since the beginning of time, travel has been an indispensable part of human life. In the modern world, the various aspects of travel have been accommodated into an organized word ‘Tourism’. With the ease of booking travel, the industry has grown rapidly over the past few decades. Therefore, it becomes important to segregate the industry into various types for convenience of defining the purpose of each kind of travel. Let us explore some of the main types of tourism and how they differ from each other.

Different types of tourism

1. leisure tourism.

Evident from the names, leisure tourism entails the activities and locations that will help one unwind, relax and enjoy the various aspects of their trip. Typically, leisure tourism includes an escape into the natural landscape, exploring manmade architectures while staying at a comfortable and hospitable accommodation. The tourists on leisure travel will book a stay in the luxury resort or can take shelter in offbeat homestays. It is generally an amalgamation of numerous things to do such as trying local cuisine, going shopping in the regional market, and participating in recreational activities.

• Focuses on relaxation and enjoyment
• Involves sightseeing, shopping, and cultural experiences
• Often centered around beach vacations, city breaks, and entertainment
• Offers a break from routine and an opportunity to recharge

2. Business Tourism (MICE)

Business tourism or MICE tourism (Meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions) explores the realm of trips taken by the employees of various organizations. As working professionals, individuals are expected to attend meetings, conferences, seminars, exhibitions and other events to expand the reach of the business. Business tourism requires meticulous planning, budget forecasting, and comprehensive reporting by the admins and employees both.

• Serves professionals attending meetings, conferences, and exhibitions
• Provides networking opportunities and knowledge sharing
• Contributes to economic development and industry growth
• Requires specialized facilities and services to cater to business needs

3. Adventure Tourism

Among the most exciting types of tourism, adventure tourism brings in the opportunity to indulge in thrilling activities revolving around natural settings. The exhilaration and physical challenges involved in this kind of tourism makes it rank among the top tourism types. The activities include skydiving, paragliding, base jumping, rafting, dune bashing, and whatnot. The excitement only gets elevated when friends and family are involved during the activities.

• Emphasizes exciting and challenging experiences
• Includes activities like trekking, rock climbing, and bungee jumping
• Appeals to thrill-seekers and those seeking adrenaline rushes
• Provides opportunities for personal growth and pushing boundaries

4. Cultural Tourism

Cultural tourism allows travelers to immerse themselves in the traditions, history, and lifestyle of a destination. The engagement required in cultural tourism is of the highest level. Tourists can visit various museums, historical sites, art galleries, traditional markets and much more. Additionally, the opportunity to meet the local community and participate in various events increases the fun all the more.

• Centers around exploration of a region’s history, traditions, and arts
• Involves visiting museums, historic sites, and attending cultural events
• Encourages interactions with locals to learn about their way of life
• Enhances cross-cultural understanding and appreciation

Suggested Read: Top 10 Business Travel Management Companies In India

5. Ecotourism

It is the type of tourism that deals with responsible travel to natural areas. Ecotourism promotes conservation of natural resources for the utilization of the future generations and consolidates sustainability. Travelers experience nature firsthand through activities like bird watching, nature walks, and wildlife safaris. The goal is to appreciate and protect the environment while supporting local authorities and communities.

• Focuses on responsible travel to natural areas
• Aims to support conservation efforts and sustainable practices
• Includes wildlife observation, nature walks, and eco-friendly accommodations
• Offers opportunities to connect with nature and learn about ecosystems

6. Culinary Tourism

Culinary tourism is a delightful and immersive way to experience the heart of any destination – its food. It focuses on inviting travelers to try top authentic food of any specific country or region. Travelers savor the flavors, aroma, and traditional cooking techniques of local cuisines. The journey involves visiting numerous restaurants, participating in food events, going to offbeat destinations for original tastes, meeting worldwide chefs and much more. Travelers may also be enticed to cook alongside a teacher and learn new ways of cooking.

• Revolves around exploring local cuisine and food culture
• Includes food tasting, cooking classes, and market visits
• Provides insights into regional flavors, ingredients, and cooking techniques
• Celebrates the role of food in cultural identity

7. Pilgrimage

Religious tourism or pilgrimage is a type of tourism involving spiritual upliftment of the travelers by visiting sacred sites, places of worship, and participating in religious events. It offers travelers a chance to know more about various religions while learning about the different practices of diverse cultures. Many travelers and worshippers believe it to be an opportunity to unite with God and find peace in their lives.

• Focuses on visiting sacred sites, pilgrimage destinations, and religious events
• Provides spiritual experiences and connections to faith traditions
• Involves participating in rituals, ceremonies, and cultural practices
• Encourages reflection and personal growth

8. Wellness Tourism

To calibrate well-being, individuals can head to wellness tourism. Rooting from the seeds of self-care, well tourism provides the various leaves and branches for a holistic development and rejuvenation. Common activities may include spa escapes, yoga practices, sampling nourishing and healthy food, massages, etc. Hiking and trekking can also be part of the wellness plan. Tourists can visit various wellness centers for the betterment of body and mind.

• Centers on promoting physical and mental well-being
• Involves spa treatments, yoga retreats, and meditation practices
• Offers relaxation, stress relief, and rejuvenation
• Emphasizes self-care and a healthy lifestyle

9. Rural Tourism

Rural tourism presents a serene escape to the idyllic countryside. It’s a journey that invites individuals to step away from the bustling urban landscape and embrace the simplicity and authenticity of rural living. Encompassing an array of enriching experiences, rural tourism offers the chance to participate in hands-on activities such as farming, tending to animals, and partaking in time-honored rural traditions.

• Offers a retreat to rural areas and countryside
• Involves farm stays, agricultural activities, and rural experiences
• Provides a chance to reconnect with nature and experience traditional lifestyles
• Supports local communities and sustainable agriculture

Tourism is a vast industry expanding with every day of the year. Though there are numerous types of tourism, embarking on the journey with a purpose remains constant. Hope the blog was able to provide you with the basics of various types of tourism and how the industry spreads out in several other branches.

Suggested Read: 7 First Time Business Travel Tips For A Flawless Trip

Types Of Tourism FAQs

What are the key features of leisure tourism.

Leisure tourism emphasizes relaxation and enjoyment, involves sightseeing, cultural experiences, and is often centered around beach vacations, city breaks, and entertainment. It offers a break from daily routines and a chance to recharge.

What are the distinctive features of business tourism (MICE)?

Business tourism provides networking opportunities, contributes to economic development, and requires meticulous planning, budgeting, and reporting.

What is ecotourism, and what is its primary focus?

Ecotourism is a type of tourism that promotes responsible travel to natural areas. Its primary focus is on conservation of natural resources, sustainability, and experiencing nature firsthand through activities like wildlife observation, nature walks, and eco-friendly accommodations.

Pratyush is a traveling enthusiast who always looks for innovations in business travel management. He has 5 years of experience writing content on corporate travel management and working closely with expert business travel facilitators.

Related Posts

Top Tips On Corporate Hotel Booking In Dubai

Dubai is a city of wonders and one of the biggest business centers in the Gulf. It has numerous corporate offices, tourist destinations, and shopping complexes. The continuous influx of professionals and tourists have offered Read more…

Corporate Travel

4 grand business hotels in pune, maharashtra.

Pune, a city renowned for its thriving business environment, is home to a selection of top-tier hotels that cater to the discerning needs of business travelers. These establishments seamlessly blend modern amenities, strategic locations, and Read more…

Top Car Rental Apps With Pros And Cons

Availing car rentals sounds like a task that involves long queues and tons of paperwork. However, the ground reality has changed drastically over the years. Modern day car rental services use intuitive applications for conducting Read more…

Let's get started!

Thanks for submitting your details.

We'll get back to you shortly.

Exploring the World of Tourism: A Comprehensive Guide to 49 Types of Tourism

Have you ever thought about how many types of tourism there are in the world? From adventure tourism to medical tourism, the tourism industry offers a wide range of experiences for travelers.

Tourism is a rapidly growing industry, contributing greatly to the global economy . With the rise of globalization and advancements in technology, traveling has become more accessible and affordable for people all around the world.

As a result, the tourism industry has diversified and expanded to cater to the different interests and preferences of travelers.

If you are a travel enthusiast, you might be surprised to know that there are over 40 different types of tourism to choose from. Each type of tourism offers a unique experience, ranging from cultural immersion to extreme sports.

In this article, we will explore the different types of tourism in the world, giving you a glimpse into the vast array of options available to you.

Tourism is a social, cultural and economic phenomenon which entails the movement of people to countries or places outside their usual environment for personal or business/professional purposes.

49 Types of Tourism in the World

The tourism sector is constantly evolving, expanding beyond the basics of domestic, inbound, and outbound tourism.

As travel agencies, it is crucial to stay informed about the diverse range of tourism types to develop effective strategies and fuel the growth of your business. This comprehensive guide presents 62 types of tourism, offering valuable insights and opportunities for your agency to thrive in the dynamic world of travel.

Traditional Forms of Tourism

Leisure tourism.

Leisure tourism encompasses a range of activities that provide relaxation, entertainment, and cultural enrichment to travelers. Let's explore some popular forms of leisure tourism in more detail:

1. Beach Tourism

Beach tourism revolves around vacations and holidays spent in coastal areas, offering sun, sand, and various recreational activities such as swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, and water sports like snorkeling, surfing, and jet skiing.

Beach destinations around the world, such as Bali, Maldives, and the Caribbean, attract millions of tourists seeking relaxation and enjoyment in idyllic seaside settings.

2. Adventure Tourism

Adventure tourism caters to thrill-seeking individuals who seek exciting and adrenaline-pumping experiences. It includes activities like hiking, rock climbing, zip-lining, white-water rafting, paragliding, and bungee jumping in natural and adventurous settings.

Destinations like New Zealand, Costa Rica, and Switzerland offer breathtaking landscapes and thrilling adventure opportunities that attract adventure enthusiasts from across the globe.

3. Cultural Tourism

Cultural tourism focuses on exploring the rich heritage, traditions, and artistic expressions of a destination.

It involves visits to museums, historical sites, cultural festivals, and interactions with local communities to gain insight into their customs, rituals, and way of life. Destinations renowned for their cultural attractions include Rome with its ancient ruins, Kyoto with its traditional temples, and Istanbul with its diverse blend of cultures.

4. Wildlife Tourism

Wildlife tourism centers on observing and experiencing a particular region's diverse fauna and flora.

It includes activities such as safaris, birdwatching, nature walks, and visits to national parks and wildlife reserves. Destinations like South Africa's Kruger National Park, the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador, and the Serengeti in Tanzania offer incredible wildlife encounters and opportunities for conservation education.

Business Tourism

Business tourism, also known as MICE tourism (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), caters to individuals traveling for business-related purposes.

Let's explore some key components of business tourism:

5. Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) Tourism

MICE tourism encompasses corporate meetings, conferences, conventions, trade shows, and exhibitions. It provides a platform for professionals to network, exchange knowledge, showcase products and services, and forge business relationships.

Major cities and convention centers worldwide, such as London, Dubai, and Las Vegas, host numerous MICE events, driving economic growth and fostering industry collaboration.

6. Trade Shows and Conventions

Trade shows and conventions are industry-specific events where businesses exhibit their products or services to potential clients, partners, and investors. These events serve as valuable marketing platforms, allowing companies to showcase their latest innovations, generate leads, and gain industry insights.

Trade shows like CES (Consumer Electronics Show) and Hannover Messe attract businesses from diverse sectors, facilitating business-to-business interactions and promoting industry growth.

7. Corporate Retreats and Team-Building Activities

Corporate retreats and team-building activities aim to foster teamwork, boost employee morale, and enhance organizational productivity. These events often take place in scenic locations, away from the usual office environment, and incorporate team-building exercises, workshops, brainstorming sessions, and recreational activities.

Corporate retreats not only strengthen internal relationships but also provide opportunities for strategic planning, innovation, and professional development.

Niche and Special Interest Tourism

Ecotourism promotes responsible travel practices that focus on preserving and conserving natural environments while providing educational and enriching experiences for travelers.

Let's delve into some facets of ecotourism:

8. Rainforest Exploration

Rainforest exploration allows travelers to immerse themselves in the lush biodiversity and unique ecosystems of tropical rainforests. Guided hikes, canopy walks, and wildlife spotting tours provide opportunities to witness rare flora and fauna, learn about sustainable conservation efforts, and contribute to local communities.

Destinations like the Amazon Rainforest in South America, Borneo's rainforests in Southeast Asia, and Costa Rica's Monteverde Cloud Forest offer captivating rainforest experiences.

9. Wildlife Conservation Tours

Wildlife conservation tours allow travelers to actively participate in conservation initiatives, contributing to the protection of endangered species and their habitats. These tours often involve volunteer work, such as monitoring wildlife, assisting in research projects, and habitat restoration efforts.

Popular wildlife conservation destinations include the Galapagos Islands, where visitors can help preserve unique marine and terrestrial ecosystems, and South Africa's game reserves, where wildlife conservation programs support endangered species.

10. Sustainable Travel Practices

Sustainable travel practices promote environmentally friendly behaviors, aiming to minimize negative impacts on natural resources, local communities, and cultures. These practices may include reducing carbon footprint, supporting local businesses, respecting local traditions, and engaging in activities that promote environmental stewardship.

Travelers can choose eco-lodges, and eco-friendly transportation options, and participate in community-based tourism initiatives to ensure their travel has a positive impact on the destination.

Wellness Tourism

Wellness tourism focuses on enhancing and rejuvenating one's well-being through various activities and experiences that prioritize physical, mental, and spiritual health.

Let's explore some aspects of wellness tourism:

11. Spa Retreats

Spa retreats offer a serene environment where travelers can indulge in relaxation, pampering treatments, and wellness therapies. From soothing massages and rejuvenating facials to holistic healing practices like yoga and meditation, spa retreats provide a sanctuary for rejuvenation and stress relief.

Destinations such as Bali, Thailand, and California's Napa Valley are renowned for their luxurious and holistic spa retreats.

12. Yoga and Meditation Retreats

Yoga and meditation retreats provide opportunities for individuals to deepen their mindfulness and spiritual practices in tranquil and picturesque settings. These retreats often combine daily yoga sessions, meditation practices, healthy cuisine, and workshops focused on personal growth and self-awareness.

Destinations like Rishikesh in India, Ubud in Bali, and Sedona in the United States are renowned for their yoga and meditation retreats.

13. Health and Wellness Resorts

Health and wellness resorts offer comprehensive programs designed to improve physical fitness, promote healthy lifestyles, and provide personalized wellness experiences. These resorts may offer fitness classes, nutritional guidance, spa treatments, wellness consultations, and activities like hiking, yoga, and mindfulness workshops.

Wellness-focused destinations such as Switzerland's renowned Swiss Alps resorts, Thailand's wellness retreats, and the wellness resorts in Arizona's Sonoran Desert cater to those seeking a holistic approach to well-being.

Culinary Tourism

Culinary tourism revolves around the exploration and appreciation of a destination's cuisine, culinary traditions, and gastronomic experiences. Let's discover the different aspects of culinary tourism:

14. Food and Wine Tours

Food and wine tours allow travelers to savor the local flavors, taste traditional dishes, and indulge in culinary delights unique to a particular region. These tours often include visits to local markets, food tastings, cooking demonstrations, and wine tastings at vineyards.

Destinations like Italy's Tuscany, France's Bordeaux region, and Japan's Kyoto are renowned for their culinary heritage and offer exceptional food and wine tours.

15. Cooking Classes and Culinary Experiences

Cooking classes and culinary experiences provide hands-on opportunities for travelers to learn about the local cuisine, traditional cooking techniques, and regional specialties. Under the guidance of expert chefs or local home cooks, participants can prepare and savor authentic dishes, gaining insights into the culinary culture of the destination.

Cities like Bangkok, Marrakech, and Barcelona are known for their immersive cooking classes and culinary workshops.

16. Farm-to-Table and Gastronomic Experiences

Farm-to-table experiences involve visits to local farms, orchards, and vineyards to witness the production process of fresh, organic ingredients. Gastronomic experiences encompass fine dining at renowned restaurants, tasting menus curated by celebrity chefs, and exploring local street food scenes.

Destinations like California's Napa Valley, France's Lyon, and Thailand's Chiang Mai provide exceptional farm-to-table and gastronomic experiences.

Adventure and Outdoor Tourism

Mountain tourism.

Mountain tourism attracts adventurous travelers seeking exhilarating experiences in breathtaking alpine landscapes. Here are some popular activities within mountain tourism:

17. Hiking and Trekking

Hiking and trekking adventures take travelers through scenic mountain trails, allowing them to explore the pristine wilderness, enjoy stunning vistas, and challenge themselves physically.

Destinations like the Himalayas in Nepal, the Swiss Alps, and the Rocky Mountains in North America offer a range of hiking and trekking opportunities suitable for different skill levels.

18. Mountaineering and Rock Climbing

Mountaineering and rock climbing appeal to those with a passion for conquering towering peaks and vertical rock formations.

From scaling iconic summits like Mount Everest and Mount Kilimanjaro to rock climbing in Yosemite National Park or the Dolomites, these activities offer a thrilling combination of physical endurance, technical skill, and awe-inspiring natural surroundings.

19. Skiing and Snowboarding

Skiing and snowboarding attract winter sports enthusiasts who enjoy gliding down snow-covered slopes and experiencing the adrenaline rush of downhill descents.

Popular ski destinations include Aspen in the United States, Whistler Blackcomb in Canada, and the Swiss Alps, where skiers and snowboarders can enjoy diverse terrains, world-class facilities, and picturesque mountain landscapes.

Water Tourism

Water tourism encompasses a wide range of activities centered around bodies of water, including oceans, lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. Let's explore some popular water-based tourism experiences:

20. Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

Scuba diving and snorkeling allow travelers to explore vibrant underwater ecosystems, encounter marine life, and marvel at coral reefs.

Destinations like the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, the Maldives, and the Red Sea in Egypt are renowned for their exceptional diving and snorkeling sites, offering opportunities to witness the beauty and biodiversity of the marine world.

21. Surfing and Water Sports

Surfing and water sports, such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and windsurfing, cater to adrenaline seekers looking to ride the waves and engage with the power of the ocean. Destinations like Hawaii's North Shore, Bali's Uluwatu, and California's Huntington Beach are renowned for their world-class surf breaks and water sports scenes.

22. Sailing and Yachting

Sailing and yachting experiences provide a luxurious and leisurely way to explore coastal regions, island hopping, and cruise along scenic coastlines. Chartering a yacht or joining a sailing excursion offers the opportunity to relax, soak in breathtaking seascapes, and visit remote islands and hidden coves.

Destinations like the Greek Islands, the Caribbean, and the French Riviera are popular sailing and yachting destinations.

Wildlife Tourism

Wildlife tourism appeals to nature enthusiasts and animal lovers who seek encounters with diverse wildlife species in their natural habitats.

Here are some popular wildlife tourism experiences:

23. Safari and Wildlife Photography

Safari adventures take travelers into national parks and game reserves, providing opportunities to spot iconic wildlife species like lions, elephants, giraffes, and zebras. Wildlife photography enthusiasts can capture stunning images of animals in their natural environment.

Destinations like Botswana's Okavango Delta, Tanzania's Serengeti National Park, South Africa's Kruger National Park, and India's Ranthambore National Park offer exceptional safari and wildlife photography experiences.

24. Birdwatching and Nature Reserves

Birdwatching enthusiasts flock to nature reserves and sanctuaries known for their rich avian biodiversity. These destinations offer opportunities to observe and identify a wide array of bird species in their natural habitats.

Places like Costa Rica's Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, Australia's Kakadu National Park, and Ecuador's Galapagos Islands are renowned for their birdwatching opportunities.

25. Whale Watching and Marine Wildlife Tours

Whale-watching tours provide an up-close and personal experience with these magnificent marine creatures. Travelers can observe whales breaching, swimming, and interacting in their natural habitat.

Destinations such as Iceland, Canada's Vancouver Island, and the Azores in Portugal are popular for whale watching and marine wildlife tours.

Cultural and Heritage Tourism

Historical tourism.

Historical tourism appeals to individuals interested in exploring the rich heritage and significant historical sites around the world. It provides insights into past civilizations, events, and cultural traditions.

Here are some key aspects of historical tourism:

26. Archaeological Sites and Ruins

Archaeological sites and ruins offer a glimpse into ancient civilizations and their architectural marvels.

Places like the Colosseum in Rome, Machu Picchu in Peru, and Angkor Wat in Cambodia attract history enthusiasts who are fascinated by the remnants of past civilizations and the stories they hold.

27. UNESCO World Heritage Sites

UNESCO World Heritage Sites are culturally or naturally significant locations recognized for their outstanding universal value. These sites range from iconic landmarks like the Taj Mahal in India to entire historical city centers like Prague in the Czech Republic.

Visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites allows travelers to appreciate the world's cultural diversity and historical importance.

28. Historical Landmarks and Monuments

Historical landmarks and monuments symbolize key moments in history or commemorate notable figures or events. Examples include the Statue of Liberty in the United States, the Great Wall of China, and the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt.

Exploring these landmarks provides a deeper understanding of their historical significance and their impact on society.

Religious Tourism

Religious tourism caters to individuals seeking spiritual experiences, pilgrimages, or a connection with sacred sites. It offers insights into different religious traditions and the architectural wonders associated with them.

Here are some facets of religious tourism:

29. Pilgrimages and Sacred Sites

Pilgrimages involve journeys to sacred destinations associated with specific religions or spiritual beliefs. Places like Mecca for Muslims, Jerusalem for Christians, and Varanasi for Hindus hold immense religious significance and attract millions of pilgrims each year.

30. Spiritual Retreats and Meditation Centers

Spiritual retreats and meditation centers offer tranquil environments for introspection, relaxation, and spiritual growth. These retreats focus on mindfulness, meditation practices, and holistic healing.

Popular destinations for spiritual retreats include Bali in Indonesia, Sedona in the United States, and Rishikesh in India.

31. Religious Festivals and Events

Religious festivals and events provide a vibrant and immersive experience of cultural traditions and religious celebrations. Examples include the Kumbh Mela in India, the Holi festival of colors, and the Christmas celebrations in various parts of the world.

Participating in these festivals offers a unique glimpse into local customs, rituals, and the spirit of the community.

Indigenous Tourism

Indigenous tourism aims to promote understanding, appreciation, and respect for indigenous cultures, traditions, and ways of life. It provides opportunities to engage with indigenous communities and learn about their heritage.

Here are elements of indigenous tourism:

32. Indigenous Cultural Experiences

Indigenous cultural experiences allow travelers to interact with indigenous communities, learn about their traditions, crafts, music, and storytelling. These experiences foster cultural exchange and promote the preservation of indigenous heritage.

Destinations like the Maori culture in New Zealand, the Aboriginal culture in Australia, and the Native American reservations in the United States offer such immersive experiences.

33. Tribal Village Visits

Visiting tribal villages allows travelers to observe and learn about the traditional lifestyles, customs, and rituals of indigenous communities. It provides insights into their sustainable practices, craftsmanship, and deep-rooted connections with nature.

Destinations such as the Amazon rainforest, the Maasai Mara in Kenya, and the Highlands of Papua New Guinea offer opportunities to visit tribal communities.

34. Traditional Arts and Crafts

Indigenous cultures often have a rich tradition of art, crafts, and handicrafts that reflect their unique identity and skills. Exploring indigenous arts and crafts markets, workshops, and galleries allows travelers to appreciate and support the preservation of these traditional artistic practices.

From intricate weaving in Peru to intricate beadwork in South Africa, there is a vast array of indigenous art to discover.

Urban Tourism

City Tourism

City tourism encompasses visits to vibrant urban destinations, exploring their iconic landmarks, cultural attractions, and modern lifestyle. It offers a blend of history, art, entertainment, and culinary experiences.

Key aspects of city tourism include:

35. Sightseeing and Iconic Landmarks

Cities are known for their iconic landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Statue of Liberty in New York City, and the Sydney Opera House. Sightseeing allows visitors to capture the essence of a city's character and architectural splendor.

36. Museums and Art Galleries

Cities are often home to renowned museums and art galleries that showcase world-class collections, historical artifacts, and contemporary artworks.

The Louvre Museum in Paris, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, and the Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg are just a few examples of the cultural treasures found in urban areas.

37. Shopping and Entertainment Districts

Urban centers offer diverse shopping experiences, from luxury boutiques to bustling street markets. Additionally, cities provide vibrant entertainment districts with theaters, music venues, and nightlife hotspots.

These districts cater to a variety of interests, ensuring that visitors can indulge in shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Architectural Tourism

Architectural tourism focuses on exploring unique architectural styles, landmarks, and urban design within cities. It allows travelers to appreciate the creativity, innovation, and historical significance of various structures.

Key elements of architectural tourism include:

38. Architectural Marvels and Landmarks

Cities showcase architectural marvels, such as the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the Sydney Opera House, and the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao. These structures captivate visitors with their impressive design, engineering, and cultural impact.

39. Modern and Contemporary Architecture Tours

Urban areas often feature striking modern and contemporary architecture that reflects the city's identity and vision. Walking tours or guided visits to architectural highlights, such as the Shard in London, the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore, or the Dancing House in Prague, offer insights into cutting-edge design and urban development.

40. Urban Design and City Planning

City tourism also encompasses exploring the urban design, layout, and city planning concepts that shape the physical environment. Sustainable urban planning, pedestrian-friendly streets, and green spaces contribute to the livability and attractiveness of cities.

Examples of urban design excellence can be found in cities like Copenhagen, Singapore, and Barcelona.

Emerging Forms of Tour

Dark Tourism

Dark tourism refers to visiting sites that are associated with death, tragedy, or historical atrocities. It offers a unique perspective on the darker aspects of human history. While it may seem unusual, dark tourism has gained popularity in recent years.

Here are some examples of dark tourism:

41. War Memorials and Battlefields

Visiting war memorials and battlefields provides insights into the sacrifices made during significant conflicts. Examples include the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial in France and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park in Japan.

These sites allow visitors to reflect on the consequences of war and honor those who lost their lives.

42. Holocaust and Genocide Sites

Holocaust and genocide sites, such as Auschwitz-Birkenau in Poland and the Killing Fields in Cambodia, serve as reminders of the darkest chapters in human history.

These places educate visitors about the horrors of genocide and the importance of promoting peace and tolerance.

43. Disaster Tourism

Disaster tourism involves visiting locations affected by natural or man-made disasters. Examples include areas hit by hurricanes, volcanic eruptions, or industrial accidents.

While controversial, this form of tourism can raise awareness about the impact of disasters and the resilience of affected communities.

Space Tourism

Space tourism is an emerging frontier in the travel industry, allowing individuals to experience the thrill of space travel and explore the mysteries of the universe. While it is currently limited to a select few, advancements in technology and space exploration are making it more accessible.

Key aspects of space tourism include:

44. Space Travel and Exploration

Space tourism involves journeys beyond the Earth's atmosphere, offering a unique perspective of our planet and the vastness of space. Companies like Virgin Galactic and SpaceX are developing spacecraft to transport civilians into space, opening up new possibilities for adventurous travelers.

45. Astronaut Training Experiences

Before embarking on a space journey, aspiring space tourists can undergo astronaut training experiences. These programs simulate the physical and mental challenges faced by astronauts, including zero-gravity simulations, centrifuge training, and survival skills.

46. Observatories and Space Centers

Visiting observatories and space centers allows enthusiasts to learn about astronomy, space missions, and ongoing research. Places like the Kennedy Space Center in Florida and the European Space Agency's Spaceport in French Guiana offer interactive exhibits, rocket launches, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into space exploration.

Virtual Tourism

Virtual tourism has emerged as a response to the limitations of physical travel, allowing individuals to explore destinations and landmarks virtually. It offers a convenient and immersive way to experience different places from the comfort of one's home. Key aspects of virtual tourism include:

47. Virtual Reality Travel Experiences

Virtual reality (VR) technology allows users to immerse themselves in simulated environments, including famous landmarks, natural wonders, and cultural sites. VR headsets transport users to different locations, providing a realistic and interactive experience.

48. Online Museum and Landmark Tours

Many museums, historical sites, and landmarks offer virtual tours that enable visitors to explore their collections and exhibits online. These tours provide detailed information, multimedia content, and the ability to navigate through the spaces virtually.

49. Virtual Travel Platforms and Apps

Various platforms and apps offer virtual travel experiences, curated itineraries, and interactive content. These platforms leverage technology to create virtual travel communities, where users can connect, share experiences, and plan future trips.

As the travel industry evolves, embracing these emerging forms of tourism can open up new opportunities for businesses and provide unique experiences for travelers.

In conclusion, the tourism industry is a dynamic and ever-evolving sector that encompasses a wide range of experiences and opportunities. By understanding the diverse types of tourism in the world, business professionals can position themselves for success and growth in this competitive landscape.

By recognizing the unique characteristics and preferences of different traveler segments, businesses can tailor their offerings and marketing strategies to meet the specific needs of their target audiences. This not only enhances customer satisfaction but also helps in creating a competitive advantage in the market.

Moreover, as the world becomes increasingly interconnected and travelers seek authentic and immersive experiences, businesses must embrace the diversity of tourism segments. By incorporating sustainable practices, respecting local cultures, and promoting responsible tourism, businesses can contribute to the preservation of natural and cultural heritage, while also appealing to environmentally and socially conscious travelers.

Let us embrace the diversity of tourism, foster innovation, and collaborate to shape the future of this exciting industry.

• United Nations World Tourism Organization
• World Travel and Tourism Council
• International Ecotourism Society
• Global Wellness Institute
• International Culinary Tourism Association
• Adventure Travel Trade Association
• UNESCO World Heritage Centre
• The International Dark-Sky Association
• Space Tourism Society
• World Tourism Organization
• National Geographic Travel
• International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators
• World Food Travel Association
• Beach Holidays by Expedia

Tumisang Bogwasi

2X Award-Winning Entrepreneur | Empowering Brands to Generate Leads, Grow Revenue with Business Strategy and Digital Marketing | Founder, CEO of Fine Group

Related Posts

The Importance of Tourism on Economies and Businesses

• April 6, 2023

Want to create or adapt books like this? Learn more about how Pressbooks supports open publishing practices.

Chapter 1. History and Overview

1.1 What is Tourism?

Before engaging in a study of tourism , let’s have a closer look at what this term means.

Definition of Tourism

There are a number of ways tourism can be defined, and for this reason, the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) embarked on a project from 2005 to 2007 to create a common glossary of terms for tourism. It defines tourism as follows:

Tourism is a social, cultural and economic phenomenon which entails the movement of people to countries or places outside their usual environment for personal or business/professional purposes. These people are called visitors (which may be either tourists or excursionists; residents or non-residents) and tourism has to do with their activities, some of which imply tourism expenditure (United Nations World Tourism Organization, 2008).

Using this definition, we can see that tourism is not just the movement of people for a number of purposes (whether business or pleasure), but the overall agglomeration of activities, services, and involved sectors that make up the unique tourist experience.

Tourism, Travel, and Hospitality: What are the Differences?

It is common to confuse the terms tourism , travel , and hospitality or to define them as the same thing. While tourism is the all-encompassing umbrella term for the activities and industry that create the tourist experience, the UNWTO (2020) defines travel as the activity of moving between different locations often for any purpose but more so for leisure and recreation (Hall & Page, 2006). On the other hand, hospitality can be defined as “the business of helping people to feel welcome and relaxed and to enjoy themselves” (Discover Hospitality, 2015, p. 3). Simply put, the hospitality industry is the combination of the accommodation and food and beverage groupings, collectively making up the largest segment of the industry (Go2HR, 2020). You’ll learn more about accommodations and F & B in Chapter 3 and Chapter 4 , respectively.

Definition of Tourist and Excursionist

Building on the definition of tourism, a commonly accepted description of a tourist is “someone who travels at least 80 km from his or her home for at least 24 hours, for business or leisure or other reasons” (LinkBC, 2008, p.8). The United Nations World Tourism Organization (1995) helps us break down this definition further by stating tourists can be:

• Domestic (residents of a given country travelling only within that country)
• Inbound (non-residents travelling in a given country)
• Outbound (residents of one country travelling in another country)

Excursionists  on the other hand are considered same-day visitors (UNWTO, 2020). Sometimes referred to as “day trippers.” Understandably, not every visitor stays in a destination overnight. It is common for travellers to spend a few hours or less to do sightseeing, visit attractions, dine at a local restaurant, then leave at the end of the day.

The scope of tourism, therefore, is broad and encompasses a number of activities and sectors.

Spotlight On: United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)

UNWTO is the United Nations agency responsible “for the promotion of responsible, sustainable and universally accessible tourism” (UNWTO, 2014b). Its membership includes 159 countries and over 500 affiliates such as private companies, research and educational institutions, and non-governmental organizations. It promotes tourism as a way of developing communities while encouraging ethical behaviour to mitigate negative impacts. For more information, visit the UNWTO website .

NAICS: The North American Industry Classification System

Given the sheer size of the tourism industry, it can be helpful to break it down into broad industry groups using a common classification system. The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) was jointly created by the Canadian, US, and Mexican governments to ensure common analysis across all three countries (British Columbia Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training, 2013a). The tourism-related groupings created using NAICS are (in alphabetical order):

• Accommodation
• Food and beverage services (commonly known as “F & B”)
• Recreation and entertainment
• Transportation
• Travel services

These industry groups (also commonly known as sectors) are based on the similarity of the “labour processes and inputs” used for each (Government of Canada, 2013). For instance, the types of employees and resources required to run an accommodation business whether it be a hotel, motel, or even a campground are quite similar. All these businesses need staff to check in guests, provide housekeeping, employ maintenance workers, and provide a place for people to sleep. As such, they can be grouped together under the heading of accommodation. The same is true of the other four groupings, and the rest of this text explores these industry groups, and other aspects of tourism, in more detail.

It is typical for the entire tourist experience to involve more than one sector. The combination of sectors that supply and distribute the needed tourism products, services, and activities within the tourism system is called the Tourism Supply Chain. Often, these chains of sectors and activities are dependent upon each other’s delivery of products and services. Let’s look at a simple example below that describes the involved and sometimes overlapping sectoral chains in the tourism experience:

Before we seek to understand the five tourism sectors in more detail, it’s important to have an overview of the history and impacts of tourism to date.

Long Descriptions

Figure 1.2 long description: Diagram showing the tourism supply chain. This includes the phases of travel and the sectors and activities involved during each phase.

There are three travel phases: pre-departure, during travel, and post-departure.

Pre-departure, tourists use the travel services and transportation sectors.

During travel, tourists use the travel services, accommodations, food and beverage, recreation and entertainment, and transportation sectors.

Post-departure, tourists use the transportation sector.

[Return to Figure 1.2]

Media Attributions

• Front Desk by Staying LEVEL is licensed under a CC BY-NC 4.0 Licence .

Tourism according the the UNWTO is a social, cultural and economic phenomenon which entails the movement of people to countries or places outside their usual environment for personal or business/professional purposes.

UN agency responsible for promoting responsible, sustainable, and universally accessible tourism worldwide.

Moving between different locations for leisure and recreation.

The accommodations and food and beverage industry groupings.

someone who travels at least 80 km from his or her home for at least 24 hours, for business or leisure or other reasons

A same-day visitor to a destination. Their trip typically ends on the same day when they leave the destination.

A way to group tourism activities based on similarities in business practices, primarily used for statistical analysis.

Introduction to Tourism and Hospitality in BC - 2nd Edition Copyright © 2015, 2020, 2021 by Morgan Westcott and Wendy Anderson, Eds is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

Share This Book

• 0 Shopping Cart

What is tourism?

Tourism is the business of providing tours and services for tourists. Tourism is a service industry which employs over 2 million people in Britain.

Tourism is an industry that drives people to travel for leisure and recreation. The growth of tourism has had a dramatic effect on many countries – not just economically, but also environmentally and socially. These impacts have been both positive and negative.

Premium Resources

Please support internet geography.

If you've found the resources on this page useful please consider making a secure donation via PayPal to support the development of the site. The site is self-funded and your support is really appreciated.

Related Topics

Use the images below to explore related GeoTopics.

Topic Home

Next topic page, share this:.

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)
• Click to print (Opens in new window)

If you've found the resources on this site useful please consider making a secure donation via PayPal to support the development of the site. The site is self-funded and your support is really appreciated.

Search Internet Geography

Top posts and pages.

Latest Blog Entries

Pin It on Pinterest

• Click to share
• Print Friendly

UN Tourism | Bringing the world closer

Un standards for measuring tourism, share this content.

• Share this article on facebook
• Share this article on twitter
• Share this article on linkedin

Glossary of tourism terms

Tourism is a social, cultural and economic phenomenon which entails the movement of people to countries or places outside their usual environment for personal or business/professional purposes. These people are called visitors (which may be either tourists or excursionists; residents or non-residents) and tourism has to do with their activities, some of which involve tourism expenditure.

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W Y Z

Activity/activities : In tourism statistics, the term activities represent the actions and behaviors of people in preparation for and during a trip in their capacity as consumers ( IRTS 2008, 1.2 ).

Activity (principal): The principal activity of a producer unit is the activity whose value added exceeds that of any other activity carried out within the same unit ( SNA 2008, 5.8 ).

Activity (productive): The (productive) activity carried out by a statistical unit is the type of production in which it engages. It has to be understood as a process, i.e. the combination of actions that result in a certain set of products. The classification of productive activities is determined by their principal output.

Administrative data : Administrative data is the set of units and data derived from an administrative source. This is a data holding information collected and maintained for the purpose of implementing one or more administrative regulations.

Adventure tourism : Adventure tourism is a type of tourism which usually takes place in destinations with specific geographic features and landscape and tends to be associated with a physical activity, cultural exchange, interaction and engagement with nature. This experience may involve some kind of real or perceived risk and may require significant physical and/or mental effort. Adventure tourism generally includes outdoor activities such as mountaineering, trekking, bungee jumping, rock climbing, rafting, canoeing, kayaking, canyoning, mountain biking, bush walking, scuba diving. Likewise, some indoor adventure tourism activities may also be practiced.

Aggregated data : The result of transforming unit level data into quantitative measures for a set of characteristics of a population.

Aggregation : A process that transforms microdata into aggregate-level information by using an aggregation function such as count, sum average, standard deviation, etc.

Analytical unit : Entity created by statisticians, by splitting or combining observation units with the help of estimations and imputations.

Balance of payments : The balance of payments is a statistical statement that summarizes transactions between residents and non-residents during a period. It consists of the goods and services account, the primary income account, the secondary income account, the capital account, and the financial account ( BPM6, 2.12 ).

Bias : An effect which deprives a statistical result of representativeness by systematically distorting it, as distinct from a random error which may distort on any one occasion but balances out on the average.

Business and professional purpose (of a tourism trip): The business and professional purpose of a tourism trip includes the activities of the self-employed and employees, as long as they do not correspond to an implicit or explicit employer-employee relationship with a resident producer in the country or place visited, those of investors, businessmen, etc. ( IRTS 2008, 3.17.2 ).

Business tourism : Business tourism is a type of tourism activity in which visitors travel for a specific professional and/or business purpose to a place outside their workplace and residence with the aim of attending a meeting, an activity or an event. The key components of business tourism are meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions. The term "meetings industry" within the context of business tourism recognizes the industrial nature of such activities. Business tourism can be combined with any other tourism type during the same trip.

Business visitor : A business visitor is a visitor whose main purpose for a tourism trip corresponds to the business and professional category of purpose ( IRTS 2008, 3.17.2 ).

Central Product Classification : The Central Product Classification (CPC) constitutes a complete product classification covering goods and services. It is intended to serve as an international standard for assembling and tabulating all kinds of data requiring product detail, including industrial production, national accounts, service industries, domestic and foreign commodity trade, international trade in services, balance of payments, consumption and price statistics. Other basic aims are to provide a framework for international comparison and promote harmonization of various types of statistics dealing with goods and services.

Census : A census is the complete enumeration of a population or groups at a point in time with respect to well defined characteristics: for example, Population, Production, Traffic on particular roads.

Coastal, maritime and inland water tourism : Coastal tourism refers to land-based tourism activities such as swimming, surfing, sunbathing and other coastal leisure, recreation and sports activities which take place on the shore of a sea, lake or river. Proximity to the coast is also a condition for services and facilities that support coastal tourism. Maritime tourism refers to sea-based activities such as cruising, yachting, boating and nautical sports and includes their respective land-based services and infrastructure. Inland water tourism refers to tourism activities such as cruising, yachting, boating and nautical sports which take place in aquatic- influenced environments located within land boundaries and include lakes, rivers, ponds, streams, groundwater, springs, cave waters and others traditionally grouped as inland wetlands.

Coherence : Adequacy of statistics to be combined in different ways and for various uses.

Competitiveness of a tourism destination : The competitiveness of a tourism destination is the ability of the destination to use its natural, cultural, human, man-made and capital resources efficiently to develop and deliver quality, innovative, ethical and attractive tourism products and services in order to achieve a sustainable growth within its overall vision and strategic goals, increase the added value of the tourism sector, improve and diversify its market components and optimize its attractiveness and benefits both for visitors and the local community in a sustainable perspective.

Consistency : Logical and numerical coherence.

Country of reference : The country of reference refers to the country for which the measurement is done. ( IRTS 2008, 2.15 ).

Country of residence : The country of residence of a household is determined according to the centre of predominant economic interest of its members. If a person resides (or intends to reside) for more than one year in a given country and has there his/her centre of economic interest (for example, where the predominant amount of time is spent), he/she is considered as a resident of this country.

Country-specific tourism characteristic products and activities : To be determined by each country by applying the criteria of IRTS 2008, 5.10 in their own context; for these products, the activities producing them will be considered as tourism characteristic, and the industries in which the principal activity is tourism-characteristic will be called tourism industries ( IRTS 2008, 5.16 ).

Cultural tourism : Cultural tourism is a type of tourism activity in which the visitor's essential motivation is to learn, discover, experience and consume the tangible and intangible cultural attractions/products in a tourism destination. These attractions/products relate to a set of distinctive material, intellectual, spiritual and emotional features of a society that encompasses arts and architecture, historical and cultural heritage, culinary heritage, literature, music, creative industries and the living cultures with their lifestyles, value systems, beliefs and traditions.

Data checking : Activity whereby the correctness conditions of the data are verified. It also includes the specification of the type of error or of the condition not met, and the qualification of the data and their division into "error-free data" and "erroneous data".

Data collection : Systematic process of gathering data for official statistics.

Data compilation : Operations performed on data to derive new information according to a given set of rules.

Data confrontation : The process of comparing data that has generally been derived from different surveys or other sources, especially those of different frequencies, in order to assess and possibly improve their coherency, and identify the reasons for any differences.

Data processing : Data processing is the operation performed on data by the organization, institute, agency, etc., responsible for undertaking the collection, tabulation, manipulation and preparation of data and metadata output.

Data reconciliation : The process of adjusting data derived from two different sources to remove, or at least reduce, the impact of differences identified.

Destination (main destination of a trip): The main destination of a tourism trip is defined as the place visited that is central to the decision to take the trip. See also purpose of a tourism trip ( IRTS 2008, 2.31 ).

Destination management / marketing organization (DMO) : A destination management/marketing organization (DMO) is the leading organizational entity which may encompass the various authorities, stakeholders and professionals and facilitates tourism sector partnerships towards a collective destination vision. The governance structures of DMOs vary from a single public authority to a public/ private partnership model with the key role of initiating, coordinating and managing certain activities such as implementation of tourism policies, strategic planning, product development, promotion and marketing and convention bureau activities. The functions of the DMOs may vary from national to regional and local levels depending on the current and potential needs as well as on the decentralization level of public administration. Not every tourism destination has a DMO.

Documentation: Processes and procedures for imputation,  weighting,  confidentiality  and suppression rules, outlier treatment and data capture should be fully documented by the  survey provider.  Such documentation should be made available to at least  the body financing the survey.

Domestic tourism : Domestic tourism comprises the activities of a resident visitor within the country of reference, either as part of a domestic tourism trip or part of an outbound tourism trip ( IRTS 2008, 2.39 ).

Domestic tourism consumption : Domestic tourism consumption is the tourism consumption of a resident visitor within the economy of reference ( TSA:RMF 2008, figure 2.1 ).

Domestic tourism expenditure : Domestic tourism expenditure is the tourism expenditure of a resident visitor within the economy of reference, (IRTS 2008, 4.15(a)).

Domestic tourism trip : A domestic tourism trip is one with a main destination within the country of residence of the visitor (IRTS 2008, 2.32).

Domestic visitor : As a visitor travels within his/her country of residence, he/she is a domestic visitor and his/her activities are part of domestic tourism.

Durable consumer goods : Durable consumer goods are goods that may be used repeatedly or continuously over a period of a year or more, assuming a normal or average rate of physical usage. When acquired by producers, these are considered to be capital goods used for production processes, as is the case of vehicles, computers, etc. When acquired by households, they are considered to be consumer durable goods ( TSA:RMF 2008, 2.39 ). This definition is identical to the definition of SNA 2008, 9.42 : A consumer durable is a goodthat may be used for purposes of consumption repeatedly or continuously over a period of a year or more.

Dwellings : Each household has a principal dwelling (sometimes also designated as main or primary home), usually defined with reference to time spent there, whose location defines the country of residence and place of usual residence of this household and of all its members. All other dwellings (owned or leased by the household) are considered secondary dwellings ( IRTS 2008, 2.26 ).

Ecotourism : Ecotourism is a type of nature-based tourism activity in which the visitor's essential motivation is to observe, learn, discover, experience and appreciate biological and cultural diversity with a responsible attitude to protect the integrity of the ecosystem and enhance the well-being of the local community. Ecotourism increases awareness towards the conservation of biodiversity, natural environment and cultural assets both among locals and the visitors and requires special management processes to minimize the negative impact on the ecosystem.

Economic analysis : Tourism generates directly and indirectly an increase in economic activity in the places visited (and beyond), mainly due to demand for goods and services thatneed to be produced and provided. In the economic analysis of tourism, one may distinguish between tourism's 'economic contribution' which refers to the direct effect of tourism and is measurable by means of the TSA, and tourism's 'economic impact' which is a much broader concept encapsulating the direct, indirect and induced effects of tourism and which must be estimated by applying models. Economic impact studies aim to quantify economic benefits, that is, the net increase in the wealth of residents resulting from tourism, measured in monetary terms, over and above the levels that would prevail in its absence.

Economic territory : The term "economic territory" is a geographical reference and points to the country for which the measurement is done (country of reference) ( IRTS 2008, 2.15 ).

Economically active population : The economically active population or labour force comprises all persons of either sex who furnish the supply of labour for the production of goods and services as defined by the system of national accounts during a specified time-reference period (ILO, Thirteenth ICLS, 6.18).

Economy (of reference): "Economy" (or "economy of reference") is an economic reference defined in the same way as in the balance of payments and in the system of national accounts: it refers to the economic agents that are resident in the country of reference ( IRTS 2008, 2.15 ).

Education tourism : Education tourism covers those types of tourism which have as a primary motivation the tourist's engagement and experience in learning, self-improvement, intellectual growth and skills development. Education Tourism represents a broad range of products and services related to academic studies, skill enhancement holidays, school trips, sports training, career development courses and language courses, among others.

Employees : Employees are all those workers who hold the type of job defined as "paid employment" (ILO, Fifteenth ICLS, pp. 20-22).

Employer-employee relationship : An employer-employee relationship exists when there is an agreement, which may be formal or informal, between an entity and an individual, normally entered into voluntarily by both parties, whereby the individual works for the entity in return for remuneration in cash or in kind ( BPM6, 11.11 ).

Employers : Employers are those workers who, working on their own account with one or more partners, hold the type of job defined as a "self-employment job" and, in this capacity, on a continuous basis (including the reference period) have engaged one or more persons to work for them in their business as "employee(s)" (ILO, Fifteenth ICLS, pp. 20-22).

Employment : Persons in employment are all persons above a specified age who, during a specified brief period, either one week or one day, were in paid employment or self-employment (OECD GST, p. 170).

Employment in tourism industries : Employment in tourism industries may be measured as a count of the persons employed in tourism industries in any of their jobs, as a count of the persons employed in tourism industries in their main job, or as a count of the jobs in tourism industries ( IRTS 2008, 7.9 ).

Enterprise : An enterprise is an institutional unit engaged in production of goods and/or services. It may be a corporation, a non-profit institution, or an unincorporated enterprise. Corporate enterprises and non-profit institutions are complete institutional units. An unincorporated enterprise, however, refers to an institutional unit —a household or government unit —only in its capacity as a producer of goods and services (OECD BD4, p. 232)

Establishment : An establishment is an enterprise, or part of an enterprise, that is situated in a single location and in which only a single productive activity is carried out or in which the principal productive activity accounts for most of the value added ( SNA 2008, 5.14 ).

Estimation : Estimation is concerned with inference about the numerical value of unknown population values from incomplete data such as a sample. If a single figure is calculated for each unknown parameter the process is called "point estimation". If an interval is calculated within which the parameter is likely, in some sense, to lie, the process is called "interval estimation".

Exports of goods and services : Exports of goods and services consist of sales, barter, or gifts or grants, of goods and services from residents to non-residents (OECD GST, p. 194)

Frame : A list, map or other specification of the units which define a population to be completely enumerated or sampled.

Forms of tourism : There are three basic forms of tourism: domestic tourism, inbound tourism, and outbound tourism. These can be combined in various ways to derive the following additional forms of tourism: internal tourism, national tourism and international tourism.

Gastronomy tourism :  Gastronomy tourism is a type of tourism activity which is characterized by the visitor's experience linked with food and related products and activities while travelling. Along with authentic, traditional, and/or innovative culinary experiences, Gastronomy Tourism may also involve other related activities such as visiting the local producers, participating in food festivals and attending cooking classes. Eno-tourism (wine tourism), as a sub-type of gastronomy tourism, refers to tourism whose purpose is visiting vineyards, wineries, tasting, consuming and/or purchasing wine, often at or near the source.

Goods : Goods are physical, produced objects for which a demand exists, over which ownership rights can be established and whose ownership can be transferred from one institutional unit to another by engaging in transactions on markets ( SNA 2008, p. 623 ).

Gross fixed capital formation : Gross fixed capital formation is defined as the value of institutional units' acquisitions less disposals of fixed assets. Fixed assets are produced assets (such as machinery, equipment, buildings or other structures) that are used repeatedly or continuously in production over several accounting periods (more than one year) ( SNA 2008, 1.52 ).

Gross margin : The gross margin of a provider of reservation services is the difference between the value at which the intermediated service is sold and the value accrued to the provider of reservation services for this intermediated service.

Gross value added : Gross value added is the value of output less the value of intermediate consumption ( TSA:RMF 2008, 3.32 ).

Gross value added of tourism industries : Gross value added of tourism industries (GVATI) is the total gross value added of all establishments belonging to tourism industries, regardless of whether all their output is provided to visitors and the degree of specialization of their production process ( TSA:RMF 2008, 4.86 ).

Grossing up : Activity aimed at transforming, based on statistical methodology, micro-data from samples into aggregate-level information representative of the target population.

Health tourism : Health tourism covers those types of tourism which have as a primary motivation, the contribution to physical, mental and/or spiritual health through medical and wellness-based activities which increase the capacity of individuals to satisfy their own needs and function better as individuals in their environment and society. Health tourism is the umbrella term for the subtypes wellness tourism and medical tourism.

Imputation : Procedure for entering a value for a specific data item where the response is missing or unusable.

Inbound tourism : Inbound tourism comprises the activities of a non-resident visitor within the country of reference on an inbound tourism trip ( IRTS 2008, 2.39 ).

Inbound tourism consumption : Inbound tourism consumption is the tourism consumption of a non-resident visitor within the economy of reference ( TSA:RMF 2008, figure 2.1 ).

Inbound tourism expenditure : Inbound tourism expenditure is the tourism expenditure of a non-resident visitor within the economy of reference ( IRTS 2008, 4.15(b) ).

Innovation in tourism : Innovation in tourism is the introduction of a new or improved component which intends to bring tangible and intangible benefits to tourism stakeholders and the local community, improve the value of the tourism experience and the core competencies of the tourism sector and hence enhance tourism competitiveness and /or sustainability. Innovation in tourism may cover potential areas, such as tourism destinations, tourism products, technology, processes, organizations and business models, skills, architecture, services, tools and/or practices for management, marketing, communication, operation, quality assurance and pricing.

Institutional sector : An aggregation of institutional units on the basis of the type of producer and depending on their principal activity and function, which are considered to be indicative of their economic behaviour.

Institutional unit : The elementary economic decision-making centre characterised by uniformity of behaviour and decision-making autonomy in the exercise of its principal function.

Intermediate consumption : Intermediate consumption consists of the value of the goods and services consumed as inputs by a process of production, excluding fixed assets whose consumption is recorded as consumption of fixed capital ( SNA 2008, 6.213 ).

Internal tourism : Internal tourism comprises domestic tourism and inbound tourism, that is to say, the activities of resident and non-resident visitors within the country of reference as part of domestic or international tourism trips ( IRTS 2008, 2.40(a) ).

Internal tourism consumption : Internal tourism consumption is the tourism consumption of both resident and non-resident visitors within the economy of reference. It is the sum of domestic tourism consumption and inbound tourism consumption ( TSA:RMF 2008, figure 2.1 ).

Internal tourism expenditure : Internal tourism expenditure comprises all tourism expenditure of visitors, both resident and non-resident, within the economy of reference. It is the sum of domestic tourism expenditure and inbound tourism expenditure. It includes acquisition of goods and services imported into the country of reference and sold to visitors. This indicator provides the most comprehensive measurement of tourism expenditure in the economy of reference ( IRTS 2008, 4.20(a) ).

International Standard Industrial Classification of All Economic Activities : The International Standard Industrial Classification of All Economic Activities (ISIC) consists of a coherent and consistent classification structure of economic activities based on a set of internationally agreed concepts, definitions, principles and classification rules. It provides a comprehensive framework within which economic data can be collected and reported in a format that is designed for purposes of economic analysis, decision-taking and policymaking. The classification structure represents a standard format to organize detailed information about the state of an economy according to economic principles and perceptions (ISIC, Rev.4, 1).

International tourism : International tourism comprises inbound tourism and outbound tourism, that is to say, the activities of resident visitors outside the country of reference, either as part of domestic or outbound tourism trips and the activities of non-resident visitors within the country of reference on inbound tourism trips ( IRTS 2008, 2.40(c) ).

International visitor : An international traveller qualifies as an international visitor with respect to the country of reference if: (a) he/she is on a tourism trip and (b) he/she is a non-resident travelling in the country of reference or a resident travelling outside of it ( IRTS 2008, 2.42 ).

Job : The agreement between an employee and the employer defines a job and each self-employed person has a job ( SNA 2008, 19.30 ).

Measurement error : Error in reading, calculating or recording numerical value.

Medical tourism : Medical tourism is a type of tourism activity which involves the use of evidence-based medical healing resources and services (both invasive and non-invasive). This may include diagnosis, treatment, cure, prevention and rehabilitation.

Meetings industry : To highlight purposes relevant to the meetings industry, if a trip's main purpose is business/professional, it can be further subdivided into "attending meetings, conferences or congresses, trade fairs and exhibitions" and "other business and professional purposes". The term meetings industry is preferred by the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), Meeting Professionals International (MPI) and Reed Travel over the acronym MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) which does not recognize the industrial nature of such activities.

Metadata : Data that defines and describes other data and processes.

MICE : See meetings industry.

Microdata : Non-aggregated observations, or measurements of characteristics of individual units.

Mirror statistics : Mirror statistics are used to conduct bilateral comparisons of two basic measures of a trade flow and are a traditional tool for detecting the causes of asymmetries in statistics (OECD GST, p. 335).

Mountain tourism : Mountain tourism is a type of tourism activity which takes place in a defined and limited geographical space such as hills or mountains with distinctive characteristics and attributes that are inherent to a specific landscape, topography, climate, biodiversity (flora and fauna) and local community. It encompasses a broad range of outdoor leisure and sports activities.

National tourism : National tourism comprises domestic tourism and outbound tourism, that is to say, the activities of resident visitors within and outside the country of reference, either as part of domestic or outbound tourism trips ( IRTS 2008, 2.40(b) ).

National tourism consumption : National tourism consumption is the tourism consumption of resident visitors, within and outside the economy of reference. It is the sum of domestic tourism consumption and outbound tourism consumption ( TSA:RMF 2008, figure 2.1 ).

National tourism expenditure : National tourism expenditure comprises all tourism expenditure of resident visitors within and outside the economy of reference. It is the sum of domestic tourism expenditure and outbound tourism expenditure ( IRTS 2008, 4.20(b) ).

Nationality : The concept of "country of residence" of a traveller is different from that of his/her nationality or citizenship ( IRTS 2008, 2.19 ).

Non-monetary indicators : Data measured in physical or other non-monetary units should not be considered a secondary part of a satellite account. They are essential components, both for the information they provide directly and in order to analyse the monetary data adequately ( SNA 2008, 29.84 ).

Observation unit : entity on which information is received and statistics are compiled.

Outbound tourism : Outbound tourism comprises the activities of a resident visitor outside the country of reference, either as part of an outbound tourism trip or as part of a domestic tourism trip ( IRTS 2008, 2.39(c) ).

Outbound tourism consumption : Outbound tourism consumption is the tourism consumption of a resident visitor outside the economy of reference ( TSA:RMF 2008, figure 2.1 ).

Outbound tourism expenditure : Outbound tourism expenditure is the tourism expenditure of a resident visitor outside the economy of reference ( IRTS 2008, 4.15(c) ).

Output : Output is defined as the goods and services produced by an establishment, a) excluding the value of any goods and services used in an activity for which the establishment does not assume the risk of using the products in production, and b) excluding the value of goods and services consumed by the same establishment except for goods and services used for capital formation (fixed capital or changes in inventories) or own final consumption ( SNA 2008, 6.89 ).

Output (main): The main output of a (productive) activity should be determined by reference to the value added of the goods sold or services rendered (ISIC rev.4, 114).

Pilot survey : The aim of a pilot survey is to test the questionnaire (pertinence of the questions, understanding of questions by those being interviewed, duration of the interview) and to check various potential sources for sampling and non-sampling errors: for instance, the place in which the surveys are carried out and the method used, the identification of any omitted answers and the reason for the omission, problems of communicating in various languages, translation, the mechanics of data collection, the organization of field work, etc.

Place of usual residence : The place of usual residence is the geographical place where the enumerated person usually resides, and is defined by the location of his/her principal dwelling (Principles and recommendations for population and housing censuses of the United Nations, 2.20 to 2.24).

Probability sample : A sample selected by a method based on the theory of probability (random process), that is, by a method involving knowledge of the likelihood of any unit being selected.

Production account : The production account records the activity of producing goods and services as defined within the SNA. Its balancing item, gross value added, is defined as the value of output less the value of intermediate consumption and is a measure of the contribution to GDP made by an individual producer, industry or sector. Gross value added is the source from which the primary incomes of the SNA are generated and is therefore carried forward into the primary distribution of income account. Value added and GDP may also be measured net by deducting consumption of fixed capital, a figure representing the decline in value during the period of the fixed capital used in a production process ( SNA 2008, 1.17 ).

Production : Economic production may be defined as an activity carried out under the control and responsibility of an institutional unit that uses inputs of labour, capital, and goods and services to produce outputs of goods or services ( SNA 2008, 6.24. ).

Purpose of a tourism trip (main): The main purpose of a tourism trip is defined as the purpose in the absence of which the trip would not have taken place ( IRTS 2008, 3.10. ). Classification of tourism trips according to the main purpose refers to nine categories: this typology allows the identification of different subsets of visitors (business visitors, transit visitors, etc.) See also destination of a tourism trip ( IRTS 2008, 3.14 ).

Quality of a tourism destination : Quality of a tourism destination is the result of a process which implies the satisfaction of all tourism product and service needs, requirements and expectations of the consumer at an acceptable price, in conformity with mutually accepted contractual conditions and the implicit underlying factors such as safety and security, hygiene, accessibility, communication, infrastructure and public amenities and services. It also involves aspects of ethics, transparency and respect towards the human, natural and cultural environment. Quality, as one of the key drivers of tourism competitiveness, is also a professional tool for organizational, operational and perception purposes for tourism suppliers.

Questionnaire and Questionnaire design : Questionnaire is a group or sequence of questions designed to elicit information on a subject, or sequence of subjects, from a reporting unit or from another producer of official statistics. Questionnaire design is the design (text, order, and conditions for skipping) of the questions used to obtain the data needed for the survey.

Reference period : The period of time or point in time to which the measured observation is intended to refer.

Relevance : The degree to which statistics meet current and potential users' needs.

Reliability : Closeness of the initial estimated value to the subsequent estimated value.

Reporting unit : Unit that supplies the data for a given survey instance, like a questionnaire or interview. Reporting units may, or may not, be the same as the observation unit.

Residents/non-residents : The residents of a country are individuals whose centre of predominant economic interest is located in its economic territory. For a country, the non-residents are individuals whose centre of predominant economic interest is located outside its economic territory.

Response and non-response : Response and non-response to various elements of a survey entail potential errors.

Response error : Response errors may be defined as those arising from the interviewing process. Such errors may be due to a number of circumstances, such as inadequate concepts or questions; inadequate training; interviewer failures; respondent failures.

Rural tourism : Rural tourism is a type of tourism activity in which the visitor's experience is related to a wide range of products generally linked to nature-based activities, agriculture, rural lifestyle / culture, angling and sightseeing. Rural tourism activities take place in non-urban (rural) areas with the following characteristics:

• Low population density;
• Landscape and land-use dominated by agriculture and forestry; and
• Traditional social structure and lifestyle

Same-day visitor (or excursionist): A visitor (domestic, inbound or outbound) is classified as a tourist (or overnight visitor), if his/her trip includes an overnight stay, or as a same-day visitor (or excursionist) otherwise ( IRTS 2008, 2.13 ).

Sample : A subset of a frame where elements are selected based on a process with a known probability of selection.

Sample survey : A survey which is carried out using a sampling method.

Sampling error : That part of the difference between a population value and an estimate thereof, derived from a random sample, which is due to the fact that only a subset of the population is enumerated.

Satellite accounts : There are two types of satellite accounts, serving two different functions. The first type, sometimes called an internal satellite, takes the full set of accounting rules and conventions of the SNA but focuses on a particular aspect of interest by moving away from the standard classifications and hierarchies. Examples are tourism, coffee production and environmental protection expenditure. The second type, called an external satellite, may add non-economic data or vary some of the accounting conventions or both. It is a particularly suitable way to explore new areas in a research context. An example may be the role of volunteer labour in the economy ( SNA 2008, 29.85 ).

SDMX, Statistical Data and Metadata Exchange : Set of technical standards and content-oriented guidelines, together with an IT architecture and tools, to be used for the efficient exchange and sharing of statistical data and metadata (SDMX).

Seasonal adjustment : Seasonal adjustment is a statistical technique to remove the effects of seasonal calendar influences on a series. Seasonal effects usually reflect the influence of the seasons themselves, either directly or through production series related to them, or social conventions. Other types of calendar variation occur as a result of influences such as number of days in the calendar period, the accounting or recording practices adopted or the incidence of moving holidays.

Self-employment job : Self-employment jobs are those jobs where remuneration is directly dependent upon the profits (or the potential of profits) derived from the goods or services produced.

Self-employed with paid employees : Self-employed with paid employees are classified as employers.

Self-employed without employees : Self-employed without employees are classified as own-account workers.

Services : Services are the result of a production activity that changes the conditions of the consuming units, or facilitates the exchange of products or financial assets. They cannot be traded separately from their production. By the time their production is completed, they must have been provided to the consumers ( SNA 2008, 6.17 ).

Social transfers in kind : A special case of transfers in kind is that of social transfers in kind. These consist of goods and services provided by general government and non-profit institutions serving households (NPISHs) that are delivered to individual households. Health and education services are the prime examples. Rather than provide a specified amount of money to be used to purchase medical and educational services, the services are often provided in kind to make sure that the need for the services is met. (Sometimes the recipient purchases the service and is reimbursed by the insurance or assistance scheme. Such a transaction is still treated as being in kind because the recipient is merely acting as the agent of the insurance scheme) (SNA 2008, 3.83).

Sports tourism : Sports tourism is a type of tourism activity which refers to the travel experience of the tourist who either observes as a spectator or actively participates in a sporting event generally involving commercial and non-commercial activities of a competitive nature.

Standard classification : Classifications that follow prescribed rules and are generally recommended and accepted.

Statistical error : The unknown difference between the retained value and the true value.

Statistical indicator : A data element that represents statistical data for a specified time, place, and other characteristics, and is corrected for at least one dimension (usually size) to allow for meaningful comparisons.

Statistical metadata : Data about statistical data.

Statistical unit : Entity about which information is sought and about which statistics are compiled. Statistical units may be identifiable legal or physical entities or statistical constructs.

Survey : An investigation about the characteristics of a given population by means of collecting data from a sample of that population and estimating their characteristics through the systematic use of statistical methodology.

System of National Accounts : The System of National Accounts (SNA) is the internationally agreed standard set of recommendations on how to compile measures of economic activity in accordance with strict accounting conventions based on economic principles. The recommendations are expressed in terms of a set of concepts, definitions, classifications and accounting rules that comprise the internationally agreed standard for measuring indicators of economic performance. The accounting framework of the SNA allows economic data to be compiled and presented in a format that is designed for purposes of economic analysis, decision-taking and policymaking ( SNA 2008, 1.1 ).

Total tourism internal demand : Total tourism internal demand, is the sum of internal tourism consumption, tourism gross fixed capital formation and tourism collective consumption ( TSA:RMF 2008, 4.114 ). It does not include outbound tourism consumption.

Tourism : Tourism refers to the activity of visitors ( IRTS 2008, 2.9 ).

Tourism characteristic activities : Tourism characteristic activities are the activities that typically produce tourism characteristic products. As the industrial origin of a product (the ISIC industry that produces it) is not a criterion for the aggregation of products within a similar CPC category, there is no strict one-to-one relationship between products and the industries producing them as their principal outputs ( IRTS 2008, 5.11 ).

Tourism characteristic products : Tourism characteristic products are those that satisfy one or both of the following criteria: a) Tourism expenditure on the product should represent a significant share total tourism expenditure (share-of-expenditure/demand condition); b) Tourism expenditure on the product should represent a significant share of the supply of the product in the economy (share-of-supply condition). This criterion implies that the supply of a tourism characteristic product would cease to exist in meaningful quantity in the absence of visitors ( IRTS 2008, 5.10 ).

Tourism connected products : Their significance within tourism analysis for the economy of reference is recognized although their link to tourism is very limited worldwide. Consequently, lists of such products will be country-specific ( IRTS 2008, 5.12 ).

Tourism consumption : Tourism consumption has the same formal definition as tourism expenditure. Nevertheless, the concept of tourism consumption used in the Tourism Satellite Account goes beyond that of tourism expenditure. Besides the amount paid for the acquisition of consumption goods and services, as well as valuables for own use or to give away, for and during tourism trips, which corresponds to monetary transactions (the focus of tourism expenditure), it also includes services associated with vacation accommodation on own account, tourism social transfers in kind and other imputed consumption. These transactions need to be estimated using sources different from information collected directly from the visitors, such as reports on home exchanges, estimations of rents associated with vacation homes, calculations of financial intermediation services indirectly measured (FISIM), etc. ( TSA:RMF 2008, 2.25 ).

Tourism destination : A tourism destination is a physical space with or without administrative and/or analytical boundaries in which a visitor can spend an overnight. It is the cluster (co-location) of products and services, and of activities and experiences along the tourism value chain and a basic unit of analysis of tourism. A destination incorporates various stakeholders and can network to form larger destinations. It is also intangible with its image and identity which may influence its market competitiveness.

Tourism direct gross domestic product : Tourism direct gross domestic product (TDGDP) is the sum of the part of gross value added (at basic prices) generated by all industries in response to internal tourism consumption plus the amount of net taxes on products and imports included within the value of this expenditure at purchasers' prices ( TSA:RMF 2008, 4.96 ).

Tourism direct gross value added : Tourism direct gross value added (TDGVA) is the part of gross value added generated by tourism industries and other industries of the economy that directly serve visitors in response to internal tourism consumption ( TSA:RMF 2008, 4.88 ).

Tourism expenditure : Tourism expenditure refers to the amount paid for the acquisition of consumption goods and services, as well as valuables, for own use or to give away, for and during tourism trips. It includes expenditures by visitors themselves, as well as expenses that are paid for or reimbursed by others ( IRTS 2008, 4.2 ).

Tourism industries : The tourism industries comprise all establishments for which the principal activity is a tourism characteristic activity. Tourism industries (also referred to as tourism activities) are the activities that typically producetourism characteristic products. The term tourism industries is equivalent to tourism characteristic activities and the two terms are sometimes used synonymously in the IRTS 2008, 5.10, 5.11 and figure 5.1 .

Tourism product : A tourism product is a combination of tangible and intangible elements, such as natural, cultural and man-made resources, attractions, facilities, services and activities around a specific center of interest which represents the core of the destination marketing mix and creates an overall visitor experience including emotional aspects for the potential customers. A tourism product is priced and sold through distribution channels and it has a life-cycle.

Tourism ratio : For each variable of supply in the Tourism Satellite Account, the tourism ratiois the ratio between the total value of tourism share and total value of the corresponding variable in the Tourism Satellite Account expressed in percentage form ( TSA:RMF 2008, 4.56 ). (See also Tourism share).

Tourism Satellite Account : The Tourism Satellite Account is the second international standard on tourism statistics (Tourism Satellite Account: Recommended Methodological Framework 2008 –TSA:RMF 2008) that has been developed in order to present economic data relative to tourism within a framework of internal and external consistency with the rest of the statistical system through its link to the System of National Accounts. It is the basic reconciliation framework of tourism statistics. As a statistical tool for the economic accounting of tourism, the TSA can be seen as a set of 10 summary tables, each with their underlying data and representing a different aspect of the economic data relative to tourism: inbound, domestic tourism and outbound tourism expenditure, internal tourism expenditure, production accounts of tourism industries, the Gross Value Added (GVA) and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) attributable to tourism demand, employment, investment, government consumption, and non-monetary indicators.

Tourism Satellite Account aggregates : The compilation of the following aggregates, which represent a set of relevant indicators of the size of tourism in an economy is recommended ( TSA:RMF 2008, 4.81 ):

• Internal tourism expenditure;
• Internal tourism consumption;
• Gross value added of tourism industries (GVATI);
• Tourism direct gross value added (TDGVA);
• Tourism direct gross domestic product (TDGDP).

Tourism sector : The tourism sector, as contemplated in the TSA, is the cluster of production units in different industries that provide consumption goods and services demanded by visitors. Such industries are called tourism industries because visitor acquisition represents such a significant share of their supply that, in the absence of visitors, their production of these would cease to exist in meaningful quantity.

Tourism share : Tourism share is the share of the corresponding fraction of internal tourism consumption in each component of supply ( TSA:RMF 2008, 4.51 ). For each industry, the tourism share of output (in value), is the sum of the tourism share corresponding to each product component of its output ( TSA:RMF 2008, 4.55 ). (See also Tourism ratio ).

Tourism single-purpose consumer durable goods : Tourism single-purpose consumer durables is a specific category of consumer durable goods that include durable goods that are used exclusively, or almost exclusively, by individuals while on tourism trips ( TSA:RMF 2008 , 2.41 and Annex 5 ).

Tourism trip : Trips taken by visitors are tourism trips ( IRTS 2008, 2.29 ).

Tourist (or overnight visitor): A visitor (domestic, inbound or outbound) is classified as a tourist (or overnight visitor), if his/her trip includes an overnight stay, or as a same-day visitor (or excursionist) otherwise ( IRTS 2008, 2.13 ).

Tourism value chain : The tourism value chain is the sequence of primary and support activities which are strategically fundamental for the performance of the tourism sector. Linked processes such as policy making and integrated planning, product development and packaging, promotion and marketing, distribution and sales and destination operations and services are the key primary activities of the tourism value chain. Support activities involve transport and infrastructure, human resource development, technology and systems development and other complementary goods and services which may not be related to core tourism businesses but have a high impact on the value of tourism.

Travel / traveller : Travel refers to the activity of travellers. A traveller is someone who moves between different geographic locations, for any purpose and any duration ( IRTS 2008, 2.4 ). The visitor is a particular type of traveller and consequently tourism is a subset of travel.

Travel group : A travel group is made up of individuals or travel parties travelling together: examples are people travelling on the same package tour or youngsters attending a summer camp ( IRTS 2008, 3.5 ).

Travel item (in balance of payments): Travel is an item of the goods and services account of the balance of payments: travel credits cover goods and services for own use or to give away acquired from an economy by non-residents during visits to that economy. Travel debits cover goods and services for own use or to give away acquired from other economies by residents during visits to other economies ( BPM6, 10.86 ).

Travel party : A travel party is defined as visitors travelling together on a trip and whose expenditures are pooled ( IRTS 2008, 3.2 ).

Trip : A trip refers to the travel by a person from the time of departure from his/her usual residence until he/she returns: it thus refers to a round trip. Trips taken by visitors are tourism trips.

Urban/city tourism : Urban/city tourism is a type of tourism activity which takes place in an urban space with its inherent attributes characterized by non-agricultural based economy such as administration, manufacturing, trade and services and by being nodal points of transport. Urban/city destinations offer a broad and heterogeneous range of cultural, architectural, technological, social and natural experiences and products for leisure and business.

Usual environment: The usual environment of an individual, a key concept in tourism, is defined as the geographical area (though not necessarily a contiguous one) within which an individual conducts his/her regular life routines ( IRTS 2008, 2.21 ).

Usual residence : The place of usual residence is the geographical place where the enumerated person usually resides (Principles and recommendations for population and housing censuses of the United Nations, 2.16 to 2.18).

Vacation home : A vacation home (sometimes also designated as a holiday home) is a secondary dwelling that is visited by the members of the household mostly for purposes of recreation, vacation or any other form of leisure ( IRTS 2008, 2.27 ).

Valuables : Valuables are produced goods of considerable value that are not used primarily for purposes of production or consumption but are held as stores of value over time ( SNA 2008, 10.13 ).

Visit : A trip is made up of visits to different places.The term "tourism visit" refers to a stay in a place visited during a tourism trip ( IRTS 2008, 2.7 and 2.33 ).

Visitor : A visitor is a traveller taking a trip to a main destination outside his/her usual environment, for less than a year, for any main purpose (business, leisure or other personal purpose) other than to be employed by a resident entity in the country or place visited ( IRTS 2008, 2.9 ). A visitor (domestic, inbound or outbound) is classified as a tourist (or overnight visitor), if his/her trip includes an overnight stay, or as a same-day visitor (or excursionist) otherwise ( IRTS 2008, 2.13 ).

Wellness tourism : Wellness tourism is a type of tourism activity which aims to improve and balance all of the main domains of human life including physical, mental, emotional, occupational, intellectual and spiritual. The primary motivation for the wellness tourist is to engage in preventive, proactive, lifestyle-enhancing activities such as fitness, healthy eating, relaxation, pampering and healing treatments.

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Travel Tips

What Are The Different Types Of Tourism

Published: December 12, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Selestina Salazar

• Arts & Culture
• Travel Essentials & Accessories

Introduction

When it comes to travel, people have different interests, preferences, and motivations. Some seek adventure and thrill, while others yearn for relaxation and tranquility. Whatever your travel style may be, there are various types of tourism that cater to different desires and experiences. Tourism is a global phenomenon that involves the movement of people from one place to another for leisure, business, or other purposes. It not only offers an escape from the daily routine but also provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in different cultures, explore diverse landscapes, and create lifelong memories. In this article, we will delve into the diverse world of tourism and explore various types of travel experiences. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone seeking new experiences, there’s a type of tourism that aligns perfectly with your interests. From cultural tourism that allows you to explore art, history, and traditions of different communities to adventure tourism that offers thrilling activities like hiking, surfing, and paragliding, the options are endless. Ecotourism provides an avenue to experience nature while promoting sustainability and environmental conservation. Medical tourism combines healthcare with leisure, giving you the opportunity to undergo medical treatments in foreign destinations. Spiritual tourism allows you to embark on a soul-searching journey to sacred sites and engage in spiritual practices. Culinary tourism lets you savor the local flavors and delicacies of a particular region, while sports tourism allows you to witness or participate in sporting events around the world. Rural tourism provides a glimpse into the peaceful countryside and agricultural practices, while educational tourism offers opportunities to learn and gain knowledge through cultural exchanges and study programs. Wildlife tourism takes you on a journey to explore the biodiversity of various ecosystems, while historical tourism allows you to immerse yourself in the rich heritage and stories of the past. Beach tourism offers sun, sand, and relaxation by the pristine shores, while urban tourism lets you embrace the hustle and bustle of vibrant cities. Honeymoon tourism provides romantic getaways and intimate experiences for newlyweds, while shopping tourism caters to the shopaholics looking for unique souvenirs and bargains. Business tourism combines work and pleasure, allowing professionals to attend conferences, seminars, and meetings in different locations. Volunteer tourism creates an opportunity to contribute to society and make a positive impact on the communities being visited. Religious tourism takes you on a pilgrimage to holy sites and sacred destinations, while cruise tourism offers the luxury of exploring multiple destinations while sailing on a cruise ship. With such a wide array of tourism options available, there’s something to suit every traveler’s inclination. Whether you’re embarking on a solo adventure, planning a family vacation, or organizing a group trip, the choice of tourism type will shape your entire experience. So, let’s dive into the world of tourism and explore the different types that will inspire your future travel plans. Get ready to broaden your horizons, create lasting memories, and embark on unforgettable journeys.

Cultural Tourism

Cultural tourism is a type of travel that focuses on immersing oneself in the art, history, traditions, and customs of a particular destination. It allows travelers to explore the unique cultural heritage of a place, gaining insights into the local way of life. One of the key aspects of cultural tourism is visiting historical landmarks and monuments that hold significance in shaping the identity of a community or country. These can include ancient ruins, castles, temples, palaces, and museums. By wandering through these cultural sites, travelers can learn about the rich history and architectural marvels that have stood the test of time. Another important element of cultural tourism is experiencing the local traditions and customs firsthand. This can include attending cultural festivals, religious ceremonies, and traditional performances. By participating in these events, travelers can observe and appreciate the unique practices, music, dance, and attire that make up the cultural fabric of the destination. Cultural tourism also provides an opportunity to indulge in authentic local cuisine. Trying traditional dishes and beverages is not only a gastronomic delight but also a way to understand the culinary heritage and flavors of a place. Food markets, street vendors, and local eateries offer a glimpse into the regional specialties and cooking techniques. Moreover, interacting with the locals is a fundamental aspect of cultural tourism. Engaging in conversations, learning the local language, and interacting with artisans, craftsmen, and residents can provide a deeper understanding of the culture. This exchange of stories, beliefs, and practices fosters cultural appreciation and creates memorable connections. Cultural tourism can take many forms depending on the destination and the interests of the traveler. It can involve visiting historical cities and sites, exploring traditional villages, attending cultural workshops, or even staying with local families to experience their way of life. The aim is to go beyond surface-level exploration and truly immerse oneself in the culture and heritage of the place. Whether it’s admiring the artworks in a renowned gallery, witnessing traditional rituals, or trying on traditional attire, cultural tourism offers a rich tapestry of experiences that leave a lasting impact on travelers. It promotes cross-cultural understanding, respect, and appreciation, while also supporting the preservation and promotion of local heritage. So, if you have a passion for art, history, traditions, and want to understand the essence of a destination, cultural tourism is the perfect type of travel for you. Embark on a journey of discovery and let the beauty of different cultures captivate your senses. Get ready to broaden your horizons and experience the richness of human diversity through cultural tourism.

Adventure Tourism

Adventure tourism is a thrilling and exhilarating type of travel that caters to those seeking adrenaline-pumping experiences in the great outdoors. It is all about pushing your limits, stepping out of your comfort zone, and engaging in daring and adventurous activities. One of the most popular aspects of adventure tourism is outdoor sports and recreational activities. This can include activities such as hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, white-water rafting, zip-lining, paragliding, and bungee jumping. These activities allow travelers to explore stunning landscapes, conquer physical challenges, and experience a rush of adrenaline. For nature lovers, adventure tourism provides opportunities to engage in wildlife encounters and explore natural wonders. Safari tours, wildlife expeditions, and diving excursions allow travelers to witness the beauty of diverse ecosystems, encounter fascinating animals, and immerse themselves in the wonders of the natural world. The concept of adventure tourism extends beyond physical activities. It can also involve embarking on expeditions, treks, and mountaineering journeys to conquer challenging peaks, glaciers, and remote regions. These expeditions require a combination of physical stamina, mental strength, and determination. Adventure tourism not only provides excitement and thrill but also offers the chance to connect with nature. It allows travelers to appreciate the beauty and fragility of the environment, promoting a sense of responsibility towards its conservation. Safety is a crucial aspect of adventure tourism, and it is essential to rely on trained professionals and reputable tour operators who prioritize safety protocols. Proper equipment, expert guidance, and adherence to safety guidelines ensure that adventure activities are undertaken responsibly, minimizing risks. Adventure tourism is suitable for individuals who seek an escape from routine and wish to challenge themselves physically and mentally. It offers the opportunity to experience the beauty of nature in the most thrilling and engaging way. From scaling mountains to riding the waves, adventure tourism caters to the adventurous spirit within us all. So, if you have an appetite for excitement, love the outdoors, and enjoy pushing your limits, adventure tourism is the perfect type of travel for you. Get ready to embark on thrilling escapades, create unforgettable memories, and discover the hidden treasures of the natural world.

Ecotourism is a type of travel that promotes responsible and sustainable tourism practices, with a focus on preserving and conserving the environment. It aims to minimize the negative impact on nature and local communities while providing an immersive and educational experience for travelers. One of the key principles of ecotourism is environmental conservation. It involves visiting natural areas, such as national parks, wildlife reserves, and protected habitats, with the aim of appreciating and preserving the biodiversity and ecosystems. Travelers have the opportunity to observe wildlife, explore lush forests, and learn about the delicate balance of nature. Sustainability is at the core of ecotourism. It emphasizes minimizing the ecological footprint by practicing sustainable behaviors and supporting local communities. This includes using eco-friendly accommodations, engaging in eco-friendly activities, and supporting local businesses that prioritize sustainability and conservation efforts. Education and awareness play a significant role in ecotourism. It provides travelers with the opportunity to learn about environmental issues, conservation initiatives, and the importance of preserving natural resources. This knowledge encourages travelers to become responsible global citizens and advocates for the protection of the planet. Community involvement is another crucial aspect of ecotourism. Travelers have the opportunity to engage with local communities, learn about their traditions, support their livelihoods, and contribute to their sustainable development. This can be done through cultural exchanges, supporting local artisans, and participating in community-led initiatives. Ecotourism also promotes responsible travel practices. Travelers are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles, respecting wildlife, minimizing waste, conserving water, and being mindful of their impact on the environment. By adopting responsible behaviors, travelers can ensure that their visit to natural areas is sustainable and does not harm the ecosystems they are exploring. The benefits of ecotourism extend beyond the traveler’s experience. It contributes to the local economy by creating jobs and supporting small businesses. It also helps in the preservation of natural and cultural heritage, as funds generated from ecotourism activities are often reinvested in conservation efforts and community development projects. Ecotourism is ideal for those who have a love for nature, a desire to protect the environment, and a keen interest in learning about different cultures. It offers an opportunity to connect with the natural world in a responsible and sustainable manner, leaving a positive impact on the destinations visited. So, if you are passionate about environmental conservation and want to travel responsibly, ecotourism is the perfect type of travel for you. Embark on a journey that not only allows you to explore the beauty of nature but also contributes to its preservation for future generations.

Medical Tourism

Medical tourism is a type of travel that combines healthcare treatments or procedures with leisure and relaxation in a foreign destination. It involves traveling to another country to seek medical care, whether it’s for elective procedures, specialized treatments, or cost-effective healthcare options. One of the main reasons people choose medical tourism is the availability of high-quality medical services at a lower cost compared to their home country. This cost advantage, coupled with access to renowned healthcare facilities and experienced medical professionals, makes medical tourism an appealing option for individuals seeking affordable treatments without compromising on quality. Popular medical tourism destinations offer a wide range of healthcare services, including cosmetic surgery, dental treatments, fertility procedures, orthopedic surgeries, cardiac surgeries, and more. These destinations often have state-of-the-art medical facilities equipped with advanced technology and specialized medical staff. In addition to cost savings, medical tourism also provides an opportunity for patients to combine their healthcare journey with leisure and recuperation. Many medical tourism destinations offer world-class resorts, wellness retreats, and beautiful landscapes that allow patients to relax and rejuvenate after their medical procedures. Travelers can enjoy the benefits of post-treatment recovery while indulging in the culture and attractions of the destination. Another advantage of medical tourism is the potential for shorter waiting times. In some countries, there may be long waiting lists for certain medical procedures. Opting for medical tourism allows patients to receive timely treatment and avoid delays in their healthcare journey. However, it is important to carefully research and choose reputable healthcare providers and facilities when engaging in medical tourism. It is recommended to seek recommendations, read reviews, and ensure that the medical facility meets international standards and certifications. Medical tourism is suitable for individuals looking for cost-effective healthcare options, specialized treatments, and the opportunity to combine medical procedures with a relaxing vacation. It provides a chance to receive quality medical care in a different cultural setting, explore new destinations, and create a positive healthcare experience. So, if you are in need of medical treatment and want to explore healthcare options beyond your home country, medical tourism could be the right choice for you. It allows you to receive the necessary medical care while enjoying the benefits of travel and leisure in a new and exciting destination.

Spiritual Tourism

Spiritual tourism is a type of travel that focuses on seeking inner peace, harmony, and a deeper connection with the spiritual realm. It involves visiting sacred sites, participating in religious rituals, and immersing oneself in the spiritual practices of different cultures and traditions. One of the main attractions of spiritual tourism is the opportunity to visit holy and sacred sites. These can include temples, churches, mosques, monasteries, and pilgrimage destinations. These places of worship hold deep spiritual significance and are considered sacred by the followers of various religions. Participating in religious rituals and ceremonies is another key aspect of spiritual tourism. It allows travelers to witness and engage in practices such as prayers, meditation, chanting, and ceremonies, which serve as a means to connect with the divine and attain spiritual enlightenment. These experiences provide a deep sense of peace, serenity, and a feeling of being connected to something greater than oneself. Spiritual tourism also provides an avenue for personal reflection and self-discovery. It offers an opportunity to engage in introspection, meditation, and self-exploration. This can be done through yoga retreats, silent meditation retreats, and other spiritual practices that promote self-awareness and personal growth. In addition to the spiritual aspect, cultural exploration is often intertwined with spiritual tourism. As travelers visit sacred sites, they also have the opportunity to learn about the rich cultural heritage, traditions, and beliefs associated with the place. This cultural immersion allows for a deeper understanding of the customs, rituals, and values of the community being visited. Spiritual tourism is not limited to any particular religion or belief system. It embraces a universal quest for meaning, purpose, and connection. People from different faiths and backgrounds can embark on spiritual journeys to explore their own understanding of spirituality and seek enlightenment. The benefits of spiritual tourism extend beyond the individual traveler. It can also contribute to the preservation and restoration of sacred sites, support local communities, and promote interfaith dialogue and understanding. Whether you are on a personal spiritual journey, seeking solace, or interested in exploring different religious practices, spiritual tourism offers a transformative and enriching experience. It allows you to embark on a quest for inner peace, connect with the divine, and gain a deeper understanding of different spiritual traditions. So, if you are in search of spiritual enlightenment, a deeper connection with your faith, or simply a peaceful retreat, spiritual tourism is the perfect type of travel for you. Embark on a journey of self-discovery, embrace the serenity of sacred sites, and immerse yourself in the spiritual practices of different cultures and traditions.

Culinary Tourism

Culinary tourism, also known as food tourism, is a type of travel that revolves around exploring and experiencing the local food and culinary traditions of a particular destination. It offers travelers the opportunity to indulge in unique flavors, taste regional specialties, and immerse themselves in the culinary heritage of a place. One of the main aspects of culinary tourism is trying authentic local cuisine. Travelers can savor the traditional dishes, street food, and gourmet delights that reflect the flavors and culinary techniques of the region. This involves visiting local markets, food stalls, restaurants, and participating in cooking classes to learn about the ingredients and preparation methods used in creating these delectable dishes. Culinary tourism goes beyond just tasting the food. It offers a deeper understanding of the gastronomic culture and its ties to the local heritage. Travelers can explore the history, traditions, and stories behind the dishes, learning about the cultural significance and the role food plays in the daily lives of the locals. In addition to trying local cuisine, culinary tourism often involves wine and beverage tastings. Travelers can visit vineyards and wineries, sample a variety of wines and spirits, and learn about the production process. This allows for a holistic experience, combining the pleasure of tasting with an understanding of the craftsmanship that goes into creating these beverages. Furthermore, culinary tourism provides an avenue for exploring the connections between food, agriculture, and the environment. Travelers can visit organic farms, farmers’ markets, and engage in farm-to-table experiences, understanding the importance of sustainable food production and supporting local farmers. Culinary tourism also brings people together, as food has a way of crossing cultural barriers. It creates opportunities for social interactions and cultural exchanges, as travelers connect with local chefs, food artisans, and fellow food enthusiasts. This shared passion for food and culinary experiences fosters cultural appreciation and creates a sense of community. The benefits of culinary tourism extend beyond satisfying the taste buds. It contributes to the local economy by supporting local farmers, food producers, and restaurants. It also promotes culinary heritage and encourages the preservation of traditional recipes and cooking methods. Whether you are a food lover, a culinary enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys trying new flavors, culinary tourism offers a delightful and mouthwatering exploration of a destination’s gastronomy. It allows you to go beyond sightseeing and truly immerse yourself in the cultural tapestry of a place through its cuisine. So, if you have a zest for food, a curiosity for culinary traditions, and a desire to embark on a flavorful adventure, culinary tourism is the perfect type of travel for you. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds, discover new flavors, and experience the rich gastronomic heritage of different destinations.

Sports Tourism

Sports tourism is a type of travel that revolves around attending or participating in sporting events and activities in different destinations. It offers sports enthusiasts and fans the opportunity to immerse themselves in the excitement and passion of various sports, creating memorable experiences and connections with like-minded individuals. One of the main aspects of sports tourism is attending live sporting events. Whether it’s watching football matches, basketball games, tennis tournaments, or international sporting competitions like the Olympics, being in the stadium or arena allows fans to witness the thrill and energy firsthand. The atmosphere, cheers, and camaraderie among fellow spectators create an unforgettable experience. Sports tourism doesn’t limit itself to professional sports. It also encompasses participation in sporting activities and adventures. Travelers can engage in activities like surfing, skiing, golfing, hiking, and more in different destinations known for their sports offerings. It allows individuals to challenge themselves, practice their skills, and explore the beauty of nature. Sports museums and halls of fame are another aspect of sports tourism. These attractions showcase memorabilia, exhibits, and interactive displays that highlight the history and achievements of various sports and athletes. Visitors can delve into the rich heritage and iconic moments that have shaped the sports world. Sports tourism can have a significant economic impact on a destination. The influx of fans and participants generates revenue for local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops. Major sporting events can also have long-term positive effects on infrastructure development and the promotion of tourism. Furthermore, sports tourism promotes a spirit of unity and cultural exchange. Fans from different countries and backgrounds come together, sharing their love for sports and building connections. It creates a platform for cultural understanding, as people from diverse backgrounds interact and celebrate their mutual passion. Sports tourism is not limited to spectators. It also offers opportunities for individuals to actively participate in sports events or training camps. Amateur athletes, sports teams, and enthusiasts can engage in friendly competitions, workshops, and training programs in different destinations. This allows for personal growth, skill enhancement, and the chance to experience sports in a new and dynamic environment. Whether you’re a die-hard fan, an adventure seeker, or an aspiring athlete, sports tourism offers an avenue to combine your passion for sports with travel. It allows you to witness incredible sporting moments, partake in thrilling activities, and connect with fellow sports enthusiasts. So, if you have a love for sports, a desire to witness sporting events, or an interest in exploring the world through physical activities, sports tourism is the perfect type of travel for you. Get ready to cheer for your favorite teams, challenge your limits, and celebrate the power of sports in different corners of the world.

Rural Tourism

Rural tourism, also known as agritourism or countryside tourism, is a type of travel that focuses on exploring the rural areas and engaging in activities that showcase rural life and traditions. It offers travelers the opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the serenity and simplicity of rural landscapes. One of the main aspects of rural tourism is experiencing the beauty of the countryside. Travelers can explore picturesque villages, rolling hills, serene farmlands, and scenic landscapes. This allows for a connection with nature, providing a tranquil and therapeutic escape from the fast-paced urban lifestyle. Engaging in agricultural activities is another key element of rural tourism. Travelers can participate in farming activities such as harvesting crops, herding livestock, milking cows, and learning about traditional farming practices. These hands-on experiences provide insights into the agricultural heritage of a region and offer a chance to appreciate the hard work and skills involved in sustaining rural communities. Additionally, rural tourism offers a glimpse into the local cultures and traditions of rural areas. Travelers can engage with local communities, learn traditional crafts, and witness cultural events and festivals. This cultural immersion allows for a deeper understanding of the customs, beliefs, and way of life in rural environments. Culinary experiences play a significant role in rural tourism. Travelers can savor farm-fresh produce, traditional dishes, and home-cooked meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients. This farm-to-table concept not only provides a gastronomic delight but also supports local farmers and promotes sustainable food practices. Rural tourism also provides opportunities for outdoor activities and adventure. Travelers can engage in activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and horseback riding, taking advantage of the natural landscapes and wildlife that rural areas have to offer. This allows for an active and immersive experience in nature. Furthermore, rural tourism can have a positive impact on local economies. It supports small-scale businesses, including accommodations, restaurants, and local crafts, providing income opportunities for rural communities. This, in turn, helps in the preservation of cultural heritage, traditions, and the sustainable development of rural areas. Whether you seek relaxation, a connection with nature, an exploration of local cultures, or an escape from the urban environment, rural tourism offers an authentic and enriching experience. It allows you to embrace the simplicity and charm of rural life, appreciate the beauty of the countryside, and create meaningful connections with local communities. So, if you long for a peaceful retreat, a chance to experience rural traditions, or an escape to nature’s embrace, rural tourism is the perfect type of travel for you. Embark on a journey to discover the hidden gems of countryside destinations and let the serenity of the rural landscapes captivate your senses.

Educational Tourism

Educational tourism is a type of travel that combines leisure with learning experiences and educational opportunities. It goes beyond traditional classroom settings, offering travelers the chance to explore new destinations, immerse themselves in different cultures, and gain knowledge through interactive and immersive experiences. One of the main objectives of educational tourism is to promote learning and personal growth. Travelers can engage in educational activities such as visiting museums, historical sites, art galleries, cultural centers, and universities. These visits provide insights into the history, art, architecture, and heritage of a destination, fostering an appreciation for different cultures and ways of life. Educational tourism also includes participation in workshops, cultural exchanges, and hands-on learning experiences. Travelers can engage with local experts, artisans, and professionals to acquire new skills or deepen their understanding of a specific subject. This can include activities such as language classes, cooking classes, art workshops, or traditional music and dance lessons, allowing for a deeper and more meaningful engagement with the local culture. Furthermore, educational tourism promotes cross-cultural understanding and tolerance. By interacting with people from different backgrounds, travelers gain a broader perspective of the world and develop a sense of empathy and appreciation for diversity. This cultural exchange contributes to personal development and a more inclusive mindset. Educational tourism can also have a significant impact on local communities. It supports local schools, museums, and cultural institutions, providing them with financial resources and promoting the preservation of cultural heritage. It also benefits the local economy by creating job opportunities in the education and tourism sectors. Additionally, educational tourism can be a transformative experience for students of all ages. It allows them to apply theoretical knowledge gained in classrooms to real-life situations, enhancing their understanding and critical thinking skills. It fosters a love for learning beyond textbooks and encourages lifelong learning. Whether you are a student seeking to broaden your knowledge, a lifelong learner, or simply someone curious about the world, educational tourism offers unique opportunities for personal growth and cultural enrichment. It provides a platform for immersive learning experiences that go beyond traditional educational settings. So, if you have a thirst for knowledge, a desire to explore new horizons, and a passion for learning about different cultures, educational tourism is the perfect type of travel for you. Embark on a journey of discovery, engage your mind, and let the world become your classroom.

Wildlife Tourism

Wildlife tourism is a type of travel that focuses on experiencing and appreciating the diverse flora and fauna of different ecosystems around the world. It offers travelers the opportunity to witness and engage with wildlife in their natural habitats, promoting conservation efforts and providing unforgettable encounters with the natural world. One of the main aspects of wildlife tourism is wildlife watching and safaris. Travelers can embark on guided tours and expeditions to observe animals in their natural habitats, such as game drives in national parks, whale watching in the ocean, or birdwatching in nature reserves. These experiences allow for up-close encounters with a variety of wildlife, providing opportunities to learn about their behaviors, habitats, and conservation status. Photography also plays a significant role in wildlife tourism. Many travelers capture breathtaking images of animals in their natural environments, documenting their beauty and raising awareness about the importance of conservation. Wildlife photography tours and workshops provide the opportunity to learn from professional photographers and improve photography skills while preserving memories of these encounters. In addition to wildlife watching, wildlife tourism often involves educational experiences. Travelers can visit animal sanctuaries, national parks, and research centers, where they can learn from experts about the conservation efforts being made to protect wildlife species. These educational opportunities raise awareness about the importance of preserving biodiversity and the challenges faced by these ecosystems. Wildlife tourism also contributes to the local economy and benefits communities living in proximity to wildlife habitats. It creates job opportunities in the tourism and conservation sectors, supporting the livelihoods of local guides, rangers, and hospitality providers. Additionally, it incentivizes the protection of natural areas, as their preservation becomes crucial for tourism revenue. It is important to engage in responsible wildlife tourism practices. This means respecting the natural habitats and behavior of animals, maintaining a safe distance, and following guidelines set by conservation organizations and tour operators. Responsible wildlife tourism aims to minimize any negative impact on the environment and wildlife, ensuring their long-term conservation. Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply someone seeking to connect with the natural world, wildlife tourism offers incredible experiences and opportunities for personal growth. It allows you to witness the beauty of diverse ecosystems, learn about the delicate balance of nature, and contribute to conservation efforts. So, if you have a passion for wildlife, a curiosity for nature’s wonders, and a desire to protect the planet’s precious biodiversity, wildlife tourism is the perfect type of travel for you. Embark on a journey of discovery, encounter magnificent creatures, and be inspired by the power and beauty of the natural world.

Historical Tourism

Historical tourism is a type of travel that centers around exploring and experiencing the rich history, heritage, and cultural landmarks of different destinations. It offers travelers the opportunity to delve into the past, unravel fascinating stories, and gain a deeper understanding of the events and people that have shaped civilizations throughout time. One of the main aspects of historical tourism is visiting historical sites and landmarks. These can include ancient ruins, archaeological sites, castles, palaces, temples, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. By walking through these historical sites, travelers can connect with the past, admire architectural marvels, and visualize the lives of people from different eras. Museums also play a significant role in historical tourism. They house artifacts, artworks, and exhibitions that provide insights into various aspects of history and culture. From art museums showcasing world-renowned paintings to history museums delving into specific periods, these institutions offer an immersive and educational experience. Additionally, historical tourism often involves guided tours and storytelling. Knowledgeable guides share fascinating stories and anecdotes, bringing historical sites to life and providing context to the events that took place. This narrative-driven approach enhances the overall experience and creates a deeper connection with the history being explored. Cultural festivals and reenactments are another element of historical tourism. They allow travelers to witness and participate in events that celebrate historical traditions, customs, and practices. These immersive experiences offer a glimpse into the cultural fabric of a society, providing a deeper understanding of the traditions and values of the past. Historical tourism also contributes to the preservation and conservation of heritage sites. The revenue generated from tourism helps in the restoration and maintenance of historical landmarks, ensuring that future generations can also appreciate and learn from these important historical treasures. Whether you have a passion for a specific historical period, a curiosity about the roots of different civilizations, or simply a fascination with tales of the past, historical tourism offers a captivating and enriching experience. It allows you to walk in the footsteps of those who came before and gain a profound understanding of the human journey through time. So, if you are a history enthusiast, a lover of culture, or someone seeking to connect with the past, historical tourism is the perfect type of travel for you. Embark on a journey of discovery, explore the remnants of ancient civilizations, and be transported to bygone eras as you uncover the stories of our shared human history.

Beach Tourism

Beach tourism is a popular and refreshing type of travel that revolves around the allure of pristine sandy shores, crystal-clear waters, and the soothing sound of ocean waves. It offers travelers the opportunity to relax, unwind, and indulge in a range of water-based activities in some of the most beautiful coastal destinations around the world. One of the main attractions of beach tourism is the chance to bask in the sun on stunning beaches. Whether it’s lounging on a sunbed, building sandcastles, or simply strolling along the shoreline, the beach offers a tranquil and idyllic setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. The soft sand and the refreshing ocean breeze create the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Beach tourism also offers a range of water activities for adventure seekers. Travelers can dive into the underwater world through snorkeling or scuba diving, exploring vibrant coral reefs and encountering marine life. Surfing, jet skiing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are other thrilling options that allow travelers to make the most of the ocean waves. Moreover, beach destinations often offer a wide range of amenities and facilities. Beachfront resorts, restaurants, beach clubs, and entertainment options provide ample opportunities to unwind, enjoy delicious seafood, and experience vibrant beachside nightlife. These beachside establishments cater to the needs and preferences of travelers, ensuring a comfortable and memorable beach vacation. Beach tourism is not only about relaxation and water activities but also encompasses natural beauty and scenic landscapes. Many beach destinations are blessed with breathtaking views – from dramatic cliffs and rugged coastlines to gentle dunes and palm-fringed shores. These picturesque settings create the perfect backdrop for capturing stunning photographs and creating cherished memories. Additionally, beach tourism contributes to local economies by generating revenue for coastal communities. It supports local businesses, including accommodations, restaurants, water sports operators, and souvenir shops. The economic benefits of beach tourism often extend to the preservation and conservation of the coastal environment, as local communities understand the importance of protecting these natural treasures. Whether you seek a tranquil escape, thrilling water adventures, or the simple pleasure of sun-soaked days, beach tourism offers a rejuvenating and blissful experience. It allows you to unwind, connect with nature, and create cherished memories by the shores of some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. So, if you crave relaxation, love the feeling of sand between your toes, and have a passion for ocean views, beach tourism is the perfect type of travel for you. Pack your sunscreen, grab your beach towel, and prepare to soak up the sun and the beauty of coastal destinations that will leave you feeling refreshed and invigorated.

Urban Tourism

Urban tourism is a vibrant and dynamic type of travel that focuses on exploring and experiencing the diverse cultural, architectural, and entertainment offerings of bustling cities around the world. It offers travelers the chance to immerse themselves in the energy and excitement of urban environments, uncovering hidden gems and indulging in a range of urban experiences. One of the main attractions of urban tourism is the cultural diversity found in cities. Travelers can explore the thriving arts scene, visit art galleries, museums, and theaters, and immerse themselves in local music, dance, and theater performances. Urban destinations often offer a rich tapestry of cultural experiences that allow visitors to appreciate the unique expressions of the city’s residents. Architecture plays a significant role in urban tourism as well. Exploring iconic landmarks, modern skyscrapers, historical buildings, and urban landscapes allows travelers to appreciate the architectural heritage and urban development of a city. From ancient structures to contemporary masterpieces, urban environments provide a visual feast for architecture enthusiasts. Urban tourism also offers an array of dining and culinary experiences. Cities are known for their diverse food scenes, with a wide variety of international cuisines, local delicacies, and fine dining options. Travelers can explore vibrant food markets, savor street food, or dine at world-renowned restaurants, indulging in a culinary journey that reflects the city’s cultural identity. Shopping is another attraction of urban tourism. Cities often boast bustling shopping districts, luxury boutiques, and vibrant street markets, offering a diverse range of shopping experiences. From high-end fashion to unique souvenirs, urban destinations cater to all shopping preferences and budgets. Entertainment and nightlife are key components of urban tourism. Cities come alive after dark with a plethora of entertainment options, including live music venues, nightclubs, theaters, and comedy clubs. Travelers can soak in the buzzing atmosphere and experience the vibrant nightlife that urban environments have to offer. Urban tourism also provides opportunities for educational experiences. Travelers can visit educational institutions, attend conferences, or participate in workshops and seminars in various fields. Urban environments often serve as hubs for innovation, research, and intellectual exchange, creating a space for lifelong learning and personal development. Whether you seek cultural experiences, architectural marvels, gourmet delights, shopping extravaganzas, or vibrant nightlife, urban tourism offers a dynamic and multifaceted travel experience. It allows you to dive into the vibrant pulse of a city, embrace its diversity, and be captivated by its endless possibilities. So, if you are a lover of city life, a connoisseur of culture, or someone seeking the excitement of urban environments, urban tourism is the perfect type of travel for you. Get ready to explore, engage, and immerse yourself in the wonders of cities that never sleep.

Honeymoon Tourism

Honeymoon tourism is a special type of travel that celebrates the love and companionship between newlyweds. It offers couples the opportunity to embark on a romantic journey, creating cherished memories and starting their married life with a dreamy and unforgettable vacation. One of the primary objectives of honeymoon tourism is to provide a romantic and intimate getaway for couples. It involves selecting destinations known for their picturesque landscapes, serene ambiance, and luxurious accommodations. Whether it’s a tropical beach destination, a secluded mountain retreat, or a romantic city escape, honeymooners can choose the perfect setting to celebrate their love. Honeymoon tourism often includes indulging in relaxation and pampering experiences. Couples can unwind in luxurious spas, enjoy couples’ massages, or simply soak in private pools with scenic views. These rejuvenating experiences allow newlyweds to decompress and connect on a deeper level. Romantic activities and experiences are paramount in honeymoon tourism. Couples can enjoy candlelit dinners on the beach, sunset cruises, or private excursions to hidden gems. These intimate experiences create lasting memories and enhance the romantic atmosphere of the honeymoon. Adventure and exploration are also a part of honeymoon tourism for couples who seek a more adventurous experience. Activities such as hiking, snorkeling, zip-lining, or hot air balloon rides can add an element of excitement and thrill to the honeymoon, creating lifelong memories of shared adventures. Honeymoon tourism offers opportunities for cultural immersion as well. Couples can explore local traditions, engage in unique cultural experiences, and discover the culinary delights of the destination. These cultural encounters provide a deeper understanding of the local culture and create a richer honeymoon experience. Privacy is a key aspect of honeymoon tourism. Many resorts and accommodations offer secluded villas, private beaches, and personalized services, ensuring that couples have a serene and intimate space to celebrate their love. This privacy allows for uninterrupted quality time and the chance to create a strong bond as newlyweds. Honeymoon tourism provides couples with a chance to relax, reconnect, and create lifelong memories. It sets the stage for a romantic start to their married life and serves as a cherished reminder of their love for years to come. It allows couples to celebrate their union in a way that is unique to them, creating a honeymoon experience tailored to their desires and preferences. So, if you are a newlywed couple looking for a romantic escapade, a rejuvenating retreat, or an adventurous journey to celebrate your love, honeymoon tourism is the perfect type of travel for you. Embrace the magic of this special time in your lives and create unforgettable memories as you embark on a romantic and blissful honeymoon.

Shopping Tourism

Shopping tourism is a type of travel that centers around the joy of shopping, exploring diverse retail offerings, and indulging in the retail therapy experience. It offers travelers the opportunity to discover new markets, browse unique boutiques, and explore shopping destinations renowned for their variety and quality of goods. One of the main attractions of shopping tourism is the chance to explore different shopping districts and markets. From bustling street markets to upscale shopping malls, each destination has its own unique vibe and offerings. Travelers can immerse themselves in the excitement of colorful bazaars, antique markets, fashion districts, and specialty stores, discovering treasures and souvenirs that reflect the local culture and craftsmanship. Shopping tourism goes beyond mere commercial transactions. It offers a cultural experience that allows travelers to engage with local artisans, designers, and shopkeepers. Encounters with passionate sellers, learning about the stories behind products, and witnessing traditional crafts being made create a deeper connection with the destination and its people. In addition to traditional shopping, many shopping tourism destinations also offer duty-free shopping options, enhancing the appeal for international travelers. From luxury brands to local products, travelers can find a variety of goods at competitive prices, making their shopping experience even more attractive. Shopping tourism is not limited to fashion and accessories. It also includes specialty shopping experiences such as food markets, wine tastings, and farmer’s markets. Travelers can savor local delicacies, sample regional wines, and bring home unique culinary souvenirs that represent the flavors of their travel destination. Furthermore, shopping tourism often overlaps with cultural and heritage tourism. Many destinations are known for their traditional crafts, artisanal products, and local textiles. Travelers can explore weaving villages, ceramic workshops, and art galleries, supporting local artisans and taking home authentic handmade products that capture the essence of the destination. Shopping tourism also contributes to the local economy of a destination. It supports small businesses, artisans, and craftsmen, and creates employment opportunities within the retail sector. The revenue generated from shopping tourism often benefits the local community, promoting economic growth and sustainability. Whether you are a fashion enthusiast, an avid collector, or simply enjoy the thrill of discovering new goods, shopping tourism offers a diverse and enjoyable travel experience. It allows you to explore retail havens, uncover hidden gems, and return home with unique souvenirs that tell the story of your journey. So, if you have a love for shopping, a curious spirit, and an appreciation for local craftsmanship, shopping tourism is the perfect type of travel for you. Embark on a delightful retail adventure, uncover the treasures of different destinations, and indulge in the joy of shopping as you explore the world.

Business Tourism

Business tourism, also known as corporate travel or MICE tourism (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), revolves around travel for professional or business-related purposes. It includes attending conferences, seminars, trade shows, meetings, and other professional events in different destinations around the world. One of the main aspects of business tourism is attending conferences and industry events. It provides professionals with the opportunity to expand their knowledge, network with colleagues, and stay up-to-date with the latest trends and advancements in their respective fields. These events often gather experts, thought leaders, and industry professionals together, fostering idea sharing and collaboration. Business tourism also involves meetings with partners, clients, and stakeholders in different locations. Face-to-face interactions during these meetings contribute to building stronger business relationships, negotiating deals, and making strategic decisions. Traveling to meet business contacts in person adds a personal touch and enhances business connections. Incentive travel is another component of business tourism. Companies often reward their top-performing employees with incentive trips as a way to recognize and motivate their success. These trips can include team-building activities, rewards, and experiences that combine business objectives with leisure and recreational opportunities. Exhibitions and trade shows are also integral to business tourism. They provide a platform for industries to showcase their products and services to potential customers, partners, and investors. Attending these events allows businesses to stay competitive, explore new markets, and foster business collaborations. While business tourism primarily revolves around professional engagements, it often offers opportunities for travelers to explore the destination during their free time. Travelers can visit local attractions, learn about the culture, savor regional cuisine, and engage in leisure activities, creating a more enriching and rewarding travel experience. Business tourism plays a significant role in the global economy. It contributes to local economies by generating revenue for the hospitality, transportation, and service sectors. It also drives demand for advanced technology, exhibition space, and business infrastructure development in host destinations. Moreover, business tourism promotes knowledge exchange, innovation, and economic growth. It stimulates job creation and facilitates international trade and collaboration. It allows professionals to gain insights from different markets, fostering creativity and the cross-pollination of ideas. Whether you are an executive attending a conference, a salesperson meeting clients, or an entrepreneur seeking new opportunities, business tourism offers a unique blend of professional and travel experiences. It allows you to expand your network, enhance your skills, and explore new cultures and destinations while pursuing business objectives. So, if you are a professional seeking to combine business with travel, expand your horizons, and make valuable connections, business tourism is the perfect type of travel for you. Prepare to embark on a journey that fosters professional growth, networking, and memorable travel experiences, all while contributing to global business development.

Volunteer Tourism

Volunteer tourism, also known as voluntourism or service tourism, is a type of travel that combines meaningful volunteer work with exploration and cultural immersion. It offers travelers the opportunity to make a positive impact by contributing their time, skills, and efforts to various social, environmental, and community development projects around the world. One of the main aspects of volunteer tourism is engaging in volunteer work that addresses social or environmental issues. This can include activities such as community development, teaching, wildlife conservation, environmental cleanup, construction projects, healthcare support, and more. By volunteering, travelers can actively contribute to sustainable development and make a positive difference in the lives of others. Volunteer tourism also promotes cross-cultural understanding and local engagement. Travelers have the chance to immerse themselves in local communities, learn about their customs, traditions, and ways of life, and build meaningful connections with locals. This cultural exchange fosters mutual respect, understanding, and appreciation. In addition to the volunteer work, volunteer tourism often includes opportunities for exploration and leisure activities during free time. Travelers can visit local attractions, explore natural landscapes, try regional cuisine, and participate in cultural activities. This combination of service and travel creates a well-rounded and enriching experience. Volunteer tourism also encourages personal growth and self-reflection. It allows individuals to step out of their comfort zones, develop new skills, and gain a deeper understanding of global issues. It provides the opportunity for self-discovery, building resilience, and creating a sense of purpose. Furthermore, volunteer tourism contributes to the local communities and economies of the destinations visited. It supports local organizations and grassroots initiatives, providing much-needed resources and financial assistance. The relationships formed between volunteers and local communities can be transformative, fostering long-term partnerships and sustainable development. It is important to engage in responsible volunteer tourism practices. This means working with reputable organizations that prioritize ethical practices, properly assessing the needs of local communities, and ensuring a sustainable and respectful approach to volunteering. This includes being aware of cultural sensitivities, respecting local customs, and making a positive impact that aligns with the needs and aspirations of the community. Whether you are passionate about social causes, environmental conservation, or community development, volunteer tourism offers a meaningful and rewarding travel experience. It allows you to combine your love for travel with a desire to make a difference, creating lasting memories and leaving a positive impact on the destinations you visit. So, if you seek to make a meaningful contribution, engage with local communities, and immerse yourself in different cultures, volunteer tourism is the perfect type of travel for you. Embark on a journey of service, cultural exchange, and personal growth as you work towards creating a better world, one volunteer project at a time.

Religious Tourism

Religious tourism is a type of travel that revolves around visiting sacred sites, engaging in religious rituals, and exploring destinations of religious significance. It offers travelers the opportunity to deepen their spiritual journey, connect with their faith, and gain a greater understanding of different religious traditions. One of the main aspects of religious tourism is visiting sacred places. Travelers can explore pilgrimage sites, temples, churches, mosques, synagogues, and shrines that hold immense religious importance. These sites often boast awe-inspiring architecture, intricate artwork, and serene surroundings, creating a spiritual ambiance for contemplation and worship. Engaging in religious rituals and practices is another core element of religious tourism. Travelers can participate in prayer services, meditate, light candles, offer incense, or partake in religious ceremonies. These experiences provide a deeper connection to one’s faith, allowing individuals to embrace their spirituality and find solace in sacred environments. Religious tourism also facilitates cultural immersion. Travelers can learn about the customs, traditions, and beliefs of different religious communities. They can witness religious festivals and celebrations, engage with local devotees, and gain insights into the social and cultural fabric associated with their faith. Historical and archaeological aspects are often intertwined with religious tourism. Many sacred sites have significant historical value, representing the roots and growth of a particular religious tradition. Travelers have the opportunity to explore ancient ruins, artifacts, and artifacts associated with religious history, adding a dimension of historical appreciation to their spiritual journey. In addition to the personal spiritual aspect, religious tourism also benefits local communities. It provides support to religious institutions and fosters economic development in the surrounding areas. The arrival of pilgrims and tourists often stimulates local businesses, such as accommodations, restaurants, and souvenir shops, creating employment opportunities and encouraging community growth. It is essential to approach religious tourism with respect and mindfulness. Travelers should adhere to local customs, dress codes, and rituals, while being mindful of the sacredness of the places they visit. Observing and respecting local traditions and guidelines enable a meaningful and harmonious experience for all involved. Whether you are a devout follower, a seeker on a spiritual quest, or simply curious about different religious traditions, religious tourism offers a profound and enriching travel experience. It provides a unique opportunity to deepen one’s faith, gain cultural understanding, and find inspiration in the sacred spaces of the world. So, if you seek spiritual enlightenment, cultural immersion, and an opportunity to connect with your faith or learn about different religious traditions, religious tourism is the perfect type of travel for you. Embark on a pilgrimage of the soul, explore the sacred sites of the world, and allow your spiritual journey to unfold in the embrace of religious destinations.

Cruise Tourism

Cruise tourism is a popular type of travel that offers a unique and all-inclusive vacation experience, combining luxury, relaxation, and exploration. It involves traveling on board a cruise ship, which serves as a floating resort, and visiting various destinations along a designated route. One of the main attractions of cruise tourism is the convenience and comfort it offers. Cruise ships provide travelers with a wide array of amenities, including spacious cabins, fine dining restaurants, entertainment venues, and recreational facilities like swimming pools, fitness centers, and spas. This allows passengers to enjoy a luxurious and hassle-free vacation experience while sailing from one destination to another. Cruise tourism offers the opportunity to explore multiple destinations within a single trip. Passengers can visit different ports of call, discovering diverse cultures, landscapes, and attractions along the way. From tropical beach destinations to historic cities and remote islands, cruising allows travelers to experience a range of destinations without the need for constant packing and unpacking. Onboard entertainment and activities are also a highlight of cruise tourism. Travelers can enjoy live shows, musical performances, comedy acts, and casino games. Family-friendly cruises often offer children’s clubs and activities, ensuring that everyone in the family has a memorable and enjoyable vacation experience. Excursions and guided tours are a significant part of cruise tourism. Passengers have the opportunity to participate in organized shore excursions where they can explore the local attractions, embark on cultural tours, engage in outdoor activities, or simply relax at stunning beaches. These excursions offer a taste of the destination’s highlights and allow for an immersive and enriching experience. Cruise tourism promotes social interaction and the opportunity to meet fellow travelers from around the world. Passengers can socialize and make new friends during onboard activities, dining experiences, and organized events. This fosters a sense of community and creates lasting connections among like-minded individuals. Moreover, cruise tourism is designed to cater to a variety of travel preferences and interests. From family-friendly cruises with kid-friendly facilities and entertainment to luxury cruises with upscale amenities and personalized services, there is a cruise experience to suit every traveler. It is important to note that cruise tourism also has environmental implications. Efforts are being made by the cruise industry to reduce their environmental footprint through implementing sustainable practices, including waste management, energy efficiency, and ocean conservation initiatives. Whether you are seeking a relaxing retreat, an adventurous journey, or an immersive cultural experience, cruise tourism offers a diverse and luxurious vacation option. It provides the opportunity to indulge in onboard amenities, explore multiple destinations, and connect with fellow travelers from around the world. So, if you desire a seamless and enriching vacation experience, where every detail is taken care of, cruise tourism is the perfect type of travel for you. Embark on a floating paradise, experience the thrill of discovering new destinations, and create memories that will last a lifetime as you sail the seas on an extraordinary cruise adventure.

In conclusion, the world of tourism offers a plethora of options to suit every traveler’s interests and preferences. From cultural tourism that allows us to immerse ourselves in the traditions and heritage of a destination to adventure tourism that provides thrilling experiences in the great outdoors, the choices are endless. Ecotourism promotes responsible and sustainable travel, allowing us to appreciate the beauty of nature while supporting environmental conservation. Medical tourism combines healthcare and leisure, providing affordable treatments and the opportunity to explore new destinations. Spiritual tourism takes us on a soul-searching journey to sacred sites, while culinary tourism allows us to savor the local flavors and delicacies of a region. Sports tourism enables us to witness or participate in sporting events, while rural tourism offers us a glimpse into the peaceful countryside and agricultural practices. Educational tourism provides opportunities for learning and cultural exchanges, while wildlife tourism allows us to witness the biodiversity and conservation efforts around the world. Historical tourism takes us on a journey to explore the rich heritage and stories of the past, while beach tourism offers relaxation and leisure by pristine shores. Urban tourism immerses us in the vibrant energy of cities, while honeymoon tourism creates romantic getaways for newlyweds. Shopping tourism indulges our desire for retail therapy and unique finds, while business tourism combines work and travel, fostering professional growth and international collaborations. Volunteer tourism offers the chance to make a positive impact and engage with local communities, while religious tourism connects us with sacred sites and spiritual practices. In each type of tourism, there are opportunities for personal growth, cultural exchange, and creating lasting memories. Whether we seek adventure, relaxation, cultural experiences, or a deeper understanding of the world, travel allows us to broaden our horizons and embrace the beauty of diversity. As travelers, it is vital to approach tourism with respect, responsibility, and an appreciation for the communities and environments we visit. By seeking sustainable practices, supporting local economies, and engaging with local cultures in a mindful manner, we can ensure that our travels leave a positive impact on the destinations we explore. So, whether you are an intrepid explorer, a seeker of knowledge, a relaxation enthusiast, or a lover of cultural immersion, there is a type of tourism that caters to your desires. Embrace the opportunity to discover, learn, and connect. Let your travels expand your perspective, ignite your passions, and create experiences that will stay with you for a lifetime.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

Tourism—A Short History

• First Online: 13 September 2022

Cite this chapter

• Christian J. Jäggi 2  

313 Accesses

Mobility and tourism are related but not identical. Tourism expresses a change of location that is not primarily for the purpose of earning income (migration, business travel), for self-protection (flight) or for the purpose of acquiring a qualification (study, training), but for recreation, for pleasure, for health or religious reasons. Up to 2019, tourism increased every year, in the Corona year 2020 there was a decline.

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this chapter

• Available as EPUB and PDF
• Read on any device
• Instant download
• Own it forever
• Compact, lightweight edition
• Dispatched in 3 to 5 business days
• Free shipping worldwide - see info

Tax calculation will be finalised at checkout

Purchases are for personal use only

Institutional subscriptions

The German word ,Fremdenverkehr' [comprises the] totality of relations and phenomena resulting from the change of place and the stay of persons for whom the place of stay is neither the principal and permanent place of residence nor the place of abode" (Kaspar 1996:16, cited in Schiele 2017:59). Today German speakingcountries talk also about "tourism".

For a detailed discussion of the question of overtourism, see Sect.  5.2 “Overtourism”.

The two authors do refer to air travel, but the same determinants apply by analogy to the other tourism offers.

Aschauer, Wolfgang 2020: Wenn die Welt zu uns spricht – Reisen im Zeitalter spätmoderner Entfremdung. In: Reif, Julian/Eisenstein, Bernd (Hrsg.): Tourismus und Gesellschaft. Kontakte – Konflikte – Konzepte. Schriften zu Tourismus und Freizeit. Band 24. Berlin: Erich Schmidt Verlag. 49 ff.

Google Scholar  

Bangkok Post 13.6.2020: „Thais-only“ policy is racism, pure and simple. 14.6.2020: „Keep Foreign Tourists Out“: Poll.

Beck, Renato 2021: Coronamassnahmen: Klarheit gesucht. In: WochenZeitung vom 14.1.2021. 6.

Benz, Mattias 2021a: Die Terrassenöffnungen zahlen sich aus. In: Neue Zürcher Zeitung vom 29.4.2021. 23.

Benz, Mattias 2021b: Getrübte Feiertage in den Skigebieten. In: Neue Zürcher Zeitung vom 5.1.2021. 23.

Benz, Mattias/Hotz, Stefan 2021: Schreck, lass nach! Die Schweizer Tourismusbranche will nach der Pandemie mit Nachhaltigkeit punkten. In: Neue Zürcher Zeitung vom 20.2.2021. 24.

Chen, Anze/Lu, Yunting/Ng Young C.Y. 2015: The Principles of Geotourism. Beijing/Heidelberg: Science Press/Springer.

Cohen, E. 1979: A Phenomenology of Tourism Experiences. In: Sociology. Nr. 13/2 (1979). 179 ff.

Descamps, Philippe 2021: Après Ski. Die Berge emanzipieren sich vom Pistensport. In: Le Monde Diplomatique (deutsche Ausgabe Schweiz). April 2021. 1/18/19.

Domschke, Wolfgang/Scholl, Armin 2008: Grundlagen der Betriebswirtschaftslehre. Eine Einführung aus entscheidungsorientierter Sicht. 4. Auflage. Berlin/Heidelberg: Springer.

Enzensberger, Hans Magnus 1962: Eine Theorie des Tourismus. In: Enzensberger, Hans Magnus: Einzelheiten. Frankfurt/Main: Suhrkamp. 147 ff.

Freyer, Walter 2015: Tourismus. Einführung in die Fremdenverkehrsökonomie. 11., überarbeitete und aktualisierte Auflage. Oldenbourg: De Gruyter.

Graham, Anne/Dobruszkes, Frédéric 2019: Introduction. In: Graham, Anne/Dobruszkes, Frédéric (Hrsg.): Air Transport. A Tourism Perspective. Amsterdam/Oxford: Elsevier. In: 1 ff.

Graham, Anne/Metz, David 2019: Limits to Growth. In: Graham, Anne/Dobruszkes, Frédéric (Hrsg.): Air Transport. A Tourism Perspective. Amsterdam/Oxford: Elsevier. 41 ff.

Gross, Matilde S. 2017: Gesundheitstourismus. Konstanz: UVK Verlagsgesellschaft.

Book   Google Scholar  

Gross, Sven 2017: Handbuch Tourismus und Verkehr. Verkehrsunternehmen, Strategien und Konzepte. 2., vollständig überarbeitete und erweiterte Auflage. Konstanz/München: UVK Verlagsgesellschaft/Lucius.

Hanke, Michael 2019: Distribution Trends. In: Graham, Anne/Dobruszkes, Frédéric (Hrsg.): Air Transport. A Tourism Perspective. Amsterdam/Oxford: Elsevier. 105 ff.

Hartmann, Rainer 2020: Vorwort. In: Hartmann, Rainer (Hrsg.): Tourismus in Afrika. Chancen und Herausforderungen einer nachhaltigen Entwicklung. Oldenbourg: De Gruyter. Vf.

Helm, Roland 2009: Marketing. Strategische Analyse und marktorientierte Umsetzung. 8. Auflage. Stuttgart: Lucius & Lucius. UTB.

Heuwinkel, Kerstin 2019: Tourismussoziologie. München: UVK.

Jäggi, Christian J. 2021: Säkulare und religiöse Elemente einer ökologischen und nachhaltigen Gesellschaftsordnung. Eine Zusammenschau. Bausteine ökologischer Ordnungen. Band 5. Marburg: Metropolis.

Kaspar, Claude 1996: Die Tourismuslehre im Grundriss. 5., überarbeitete und ergänzte Auflage. St. Galler Beiträge zum Tourismus und zur Verkehrswirtschaft. Reihe Tourismus. Band 1. Bern/Stuttgart: Haupt.

Kirstges, Torsten H. 2020: Tourismus in der Kritik. Klimaschädigender Overtourism statt sauberer Industrie? München: UVK Verlag.

Lanz, Martin 2020: Millionen Amerikaner stehen vor dem Nichts. In: Neue Zürcher Zeitung vom 22.5.2020. 10.

MacCannell, Dean 1973: Staged Authenticity. Arrangements of Social Space in Tourist Settings. In: American Journal of Sociology. 79/3 (1973). 589 ff.

MacCannell, Dean 1999: The Tourist. A New Theory of the Leisure Class. Berkley: University of California Press.

Meyer, Laura 2021: „Die Buchungen nehmen zu“. Gespräch mit Laura Meyer, Chefin von Hotelplan. Von Benjamin Weinmann. In: Luzerner Zeitung vom 13.4.2021. 2f.

Mihai, Silviu 2021: Menschenleere Paradiese. In: WochenZeitung vom 21.1.2021. 10.

Müller, Hansruedi 2011: Tourismuspolitik. Wege zu einer nachhaltigen Entwicklung. Glarus/Chur: Rüegger.

Mundt, Jörn W. 2013: Tourismus. 4., überarbeitete und ergänzte Auflage. München: Oldenbourg Verlag.

Neuhaus, Christina 2021a: Jedes zweite Restaurant sieht sich bedroht. In: Neue Zürcher Zeitung vom 12.1.2021. 9.

Neuhaus, Christina 2021b: 33.000 Gastro-Jobs weg. In: Neue Zürcher Zeitung vom 27.3.2021. 9.

Newsome, David/Moore, Susan A./Dowling, Ross K. 2013: Natural Area Tourism. Ecology, Impacts and Management. 2 nd Edition. Bristol/Buffalo/Toronto: Channel View Publications.

Nussbaumer, Lukas 2021: S. 19: Schweizer Gäste polieren die miese Bilanz etwas auf. In: Luzerner Zeitung vom 7.4.2021. S. 19.

Pabst, Volker 2021: Der Tourismus hat oberste Priorität in der Türkei. In: Neue Zürcher Zeitung vom 12.5.2021. 3.

Page, Stephen J./Connell, Joanne 2014: Tourism. A Modern Synthesis. Fourth Edition. Hampshire/UK: Cengage Learning.

Peer, Mathias 2020: Das Coronavirus legt in Thailand das Sexgewerbe lahm. In: Neue Zürcher Zeitung vom 20.11.2020. 5.

Perren, Marcel 2021: „Es wird weniger Gruppen geben“. Interview mit dem Luzerner Tourismusdirektor Marcel Perren von Stefan Dähler. In: Luzerner Zeitung vom 12.1.2021. 19.

Plüss, Christine 2019: „Reisen ist ein kostbares Gut“. Gespräch mit Christine Plüss von Susanna Müller. In: Neue Zürcher Zeitung vom 15.3.2019. 55.

Putz, Ulrike 2020: Balkonien statt Binnentourismus in Japan. In: Neue Zürcher Zeitung vom 21.12.2020. 3.

Rate, Shirley/Moutinho, Luiz/Ballantyne, Ronnie 2018: The New Business. Environment and Trends in Tourism. In: Moutinho, Luiz/Vargas-Sánchez, Alonso (Hrsg.): Strategic Management in Tourism. 3 rd Edition. Oxfordshire/Boston: Cabi. 1 ff.

Rosdorff, Julia 2020: Der Einfluss des Afrika-Images auf die Reiseentscheidung der Deutschen: Probleme und Herausforderungen für das Tourismusmarketing afrikanischer Staaten. In: Hartmann, Rainer (Hrsg.): Tourismus in Afrika. Chancen und Herausforderungen einer nachhaltigen Entwicklung. Berlin/Boston: Walter de Gruyter. 50 ff.

Saarinen, Jarkko 2014: Transforming Destinations: A Discursive Approach to Tourist Destinations and Development. In: Viken, Arvid/Granås, Brynhild (Hrsg.): Tourism Destination Development. Turns and Tactics. Farnham: Ashgate. 47 ff.

Schäfer, Robert 2015: Tourismus und Authentizität. Zur gesellschaftlichen Organisation von Außeralltäglichkeit. Kulturen der Gesellschaft. Band 14. Bielefeld: Transcript.

Schiele, Kertin 2017: Tourismus und Identität. Vietnam-Reisen als Identitätsarbeit von in Deutschland lebenden Việt Kiều. Berlin: regiospectra.

Schnorbus, Linda/Wachowiak, Helmut 2020: Urlaubsglück der Deutschen: Was macht die Deutschen im Urlaub glücklich? In: Reif, Julian/Eisenstein, Bernd (Hrsg.): Tourismus und Gesellschaft. Kontakte – Konflikte – Konzepte. Schriften zu Tourismus und Freizeit. Band 24. Berlin: Erich Schmidt Verlag. 25 ff.

Schöchli, Hansueli 2020a: Mehr Nothilfe für Betriebe. In: Neue Zürcher Zeitung vom 10.12.2020. 21.

Schöchli, Hansueli 2020b: 1,5 Milliarden Franken zusätzlich für Nothilfen. In: Neue Zürcher Zeitung vom 12.12.2020. 11.

Schulze, Ralph 2021: Delta breitet sich aus – „Mallorca steht am Rande des Abgrunds“. In: Luzerne Zeitung vom 3.7.2021. 8.

Scott, Daniel/Halland, C. Michael/Gössling, Stefan 2012: Tourism and Climate Change. Impacts, Adaptation and Mitigation. London/New York: Routledge.

Statista 2021a: Market size of the global hotel industry from 2014 to 2018. https://www.statista.com/statistics/247264/total-revenue-of-the-global-hotel-industry/ (Zugriff 8.1.2021).

Statista 2021b: Weltweites Tourismusaufkommen nach Reiseankünften bis 2019. Veröffentlicht von Lena Gaefe. 5.1.2021. https://de.statista.com/statistik/daten/studie/37123/umfrage/weltweites-tourismusaufkommen-nach-reiseankuenften-seit-1950/ (Zugriff 7.1.2021).

Statista 2021c: Weltweite Tourismuseinnahmen von 2000 bis 2018. https://de.statista.com/statistik/daten/studie/187764/umfrage/weltweite-einnahmen-im-tourismus-seit-2000/ (Zugriff 7.1.2021).

Steinbach, Josef 2003: Tourismus. Einführung in das räumlich-zeitliche System. München/Wien: Oldenbourg.

Steinvorth, Daniel 2021: Das Gespenst des Grenzchaos geht um. In: Neue Zürcher Zeitung vom 23.1.2021. 7.

Tschopp, Martin/Beige, Sigrun/Axhausen, Kay W. 2011: Forschungsbericht NFP 48: Verkehrssystem, Touristenverhalten und Raumstruktur in alpinen Landschaften. Zürich: vdf Hochschulverlag.

UNWTO 2018: World Tourism Organization: UNWTO Tourism Highlights 2018 Edition. www.e-unwto.org/doi/pdf/10.18111/9789284419876 (Zugriff 8.3.2021).

Urech, Fabian 2021: Das Märchen von Sansibar als Paradies ohne Corona. In Neue Zürcher Zeitung vom 1.2.2021. 4.

Urry, John/Larsen, Jonas 2011: The Tourist Gaze 3.0. Thousand Oaks: Sage.

Vester, Heinz-Günter 1999: Tourismustheorie. Soziologischer Wegweiser zum Verständnis touristischer Phänomene. München/Wien: Profil.

Wildi, Robert 2020: Kampf um die Stornogebühren. In: Luzerner Zeitung vom 28.12.2020. 9.

Download references

Author information

Authors and affiliations.

Meggen, Switzerland

Christian J. Jäggi

You can also search for this author in PubMed   Google Scholar

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Christian J. Jäggi .

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

Copyright information

© 2022 The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Fachmedien Wiesbaden GmbH, part of Springer Nature

About this chapter

Jäggi, C.J. (2022). Tourism—A Short History. In: Tourism before, during and after Corona. Springer, Wiesbaden. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-658-39182-9_2

Download citation

DOI : https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-658-39182-9_2

Published : 13 September 2022

Publisher Name : Springer, Wiesbaden

Print ISBN : 978-3-658-39181-2

Online ISBN : 978-3-658-39182-9

eBook Packages : Economics and Finance Economics and Finance (R0)

Share this chapter

Anyone you share the following link with will be able to read this content:

Sorry, a shareable link is not currently available for this article.

Provided by the Springer Nature SharedIt content-sharing initiative

• Publish with us

Policies and ethics

• Find a journal
• Track your research

Hotel Management Studies

Your personal Hotel Guru…

Tourism: Forms and Types

Tourism may be defined as  the movement of the people from their normal place of residence to another place ( with the intention to return) for a minimum period of twenty-four hours to a maximum of six months for the sole purpose of leisure and pleasure.

According to WTO  (1993) ” Tourism encompasses the activities of persons traveling and staying in places outside their usual environment for not more than one consecutive year for leisure, business, and other purposes.”

According to the   Tourism Society of Britain ,” tourism is the temporary short-period movement of people to destination outside the places where they normally live, work; and activities during their stay at these destinations.” This definition includes the movement of people for all purposes.

TYPES OF TOURISM

Tourism has two types and many forms on the bases of the purpose of visit and alternative forms of tourism. Tourism can be categorized as international and domestic tourism.

Tourism has two types and various forms. On the basis of the movement of people tourism categorized into two types.

 These are following as:

International Tourism

When people visit a foreign country, it is referred to as International Tourism. In order to travel to a foreign country, one needs a valid passport, visa, health documents, foreign exchange, etc.

International tourism further divides into two types; 

• Inbound Tourism 
• Outbound Tourism.

Inbound Tourism

This refers to tourists of outside origin entering a particular country. When people travel outside their host/native country to another country, then it is called inbound tourism for that country where he/she is traveling. For example when a tourist from Indian origin travels to Japan then it is  Inbound tourism for Japan because foreign tourist comes to Japan.

Outbound Tourism

This refers to tourists traveling from the country of their origin to another country. When tourists travel a foreign region than it is outbound tourism for his own country because he/she is going outside their country. For example when a tourist from India travel to Japan then it is outbound tourism for India and Inbound tourism for Japan.

Domestic Tourism

The tourism activity of the people within their own country is known as domestic tourism. Traveling within the same country is easier because it does not require formal travel documents and tedious formalities like compulsory health checks and foreign exchange. In domestic tourism, a traveler generally does not face many language problems or currency exchange issues.

FORMS OF TOURISM

Tourism has various forms on the basis of the purpose of visit and alternative forms. These are further divided into many types according to their nature. Forms of tourism are following as :

Recreational : Recreational or leisure tourism takes a person away from the humdrum of everyday life. In this case, people spend their leisure time at the hills, sea beaches, etc.

Cultural : Cultural tourism satisfies cultural and intellectual curiosity and involves visits to ancient monuments, places of historical or religious importance, etc.

Sports/Adventure : Trips have taken by people with a view to playing golf, skiing and hiking, fall within this category.

Health : Under this category, people travel for medical, treatment or visit places where there are curative possibilities, for example, hot springs, spa yoga, etc.

Convention Tourism : It is becoming an increasingly important component of travel. People travel within a country or overseas to attend conventions relating to their business, profession or interest.

Incentive Tourism : Holiday trips are offered as incentives by major companies to dealers and salesmen who achieve high targets in sales. This is a new and expanding phenomenon in tourism, These are in lieu of cash incentives or gifts, Today incentive tourism is a 3 billion dollar business in the USA alone.

YOUTUBE VIDEO LINK

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Components of tourism: Structure of the tourism industry

Disclaimer: Some posts on Tourism Teacher may contain affiliate links. If you appreciate this content, you can show your support by making a purchase through these links or by buying me a coffee . Thank you for your support!

The travel and tourism industry is argued by many as being the largest industry in the world. It is, therefore, no surprise that the structure of the tourism industry is quite complex, involving many components of tourism.

With many different types of tourism and types of businesses operating within the tourism industry, from private companies to charities and NGOs, the structure of the tourism industry is made up of many different segments and components.

In this article I will provide you with an overview of the structure of the tourism industry, outlining the types of organisations and stakeholders in tourism that are involved.

Structure of the tourism industry

Components of tourism, international organisations, national tourist boards, regional tourist boards, tourist information centres, travel by air, travel by road, travel by train, travel by water, hotels chains, hostels and budget accommodation, holiday parks and campsites, accommodation innovations, world travel market, football world cup, glastonbury, holi festival, day of the dead, natural attractions, built attractions, tour operators, travel agents, ancillary services, components of tourism | structure of the tourism industry, structure of the tourism industry | components of tourism: further reading.

The importance of tourism is demonstrated when you can see how big the industry is!

The structure of the industry is made up of several components of tourism and involves many different stakeholders. These components are all interrelated in one way of another. The components of tourism make up the entire tourism system.

There are several integral components of tourism. Without these components, the tourism industry would struggle to function. I have explained what this means below, but before you read on, take a look at this short video that I made (and if you like what you see, don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel)!

This was demonstrated, for example, during the Coronavirus pandemic, which halted air travel around the world. Travel services are a vital component of tourism and without these services being operational, the tourism industry struggled to survive!

There are six major components of tourism, each with their own sub-components. These are: tourist boards, travel services, accommodation services, conferences and events, attractions and tourism services.

Below, I will explain what each of the components offer to the tourism industry and provide some relevant examples.

Components of tourism: Tourist boards

A tourist board is an essential component of tourism and an integral part of the structure of the tourism industry.

A tourism board is responsible for the promotion of tourism in a particular area. This could be a city, a region, a country or a group of countries.

A tourism board is usually Government funded and is usually a public travel and tourism organisation (although this is not always the case).

A tourism board is also often referred to as a Destination Marketing Organisation (DMO).

Most tourist boards focus on promoting tourism in a particular area, city or country. There are, however, some organisations which aim to promote tourism across more than one country.

Whilst these organisation often have many functions other than tourism, they will also play a role in the promotion of tourism in particular parts of the world. This could include the European Union , the ASEAN network or organisations such as the United Nations.

A national tourist board is a national organisation whose aim is to promote tourism across the country.

There are usually several management bodies that are involved with a national tourist board. They are essential stakeholders who determine many aspects of tourism in the country, such as budgets, taxation and regulations.

Said management bodies include the parliament, the tourist board, an auditing committee and the Prime Minister, President or Head of State.

The national tourist board is funded from tourist taxes, membership fees, Government funding and other sources.

Examples of national tourist boards (often most commonly referred to by their ‘campaign title’ as opposed to the Government title) include Visit Britain , Incredible India and Amazing Thailand .

A regional tourist board is a tourist board that focusses on a particular region of a country. They are often a sub-division of a country’s national tourist board.

Regional tourism boards are often funded and operated in the same way as national tourist boards.

Examples of successful regional tourism boards include: Visit Cornwall in the UK, Kerala Tourism in India, Visite Montreal in Canada and Cape Town Tourism in South Africa.

A tourist information centre is the place where tourists can go for advice and help with regards to all matters related to tourism in the area.

In the tourist information centre (TIC) you will find staff who are knowledgeable about the local area. There will often be a range of printed and digital information for you, including leaflets, maps, coupons and guidebooks. Sometimes there will be virtual tourism facilities.

Tourist information centres have been an important component of tourism throughout the history of travel and tourism , however, they are coming under increasing pressure as a result of information that is available online. This has resulted in fewer people visiting TICs in person.

Most major tourist areas will have a tourist information centre. These are usually centrally located.

Tourist information centres are funded by the local Government.

Other posts that you might be interested in: – What is tourism? A definition of tourism – The history of tourism – Stakeholders in tourism – Dark tourism explained – What is ABTA and how does it work? – The economic impacts of tourism

Components of tourism:Transport services

The relationship between transport and tourism is strong.

According to the most commonly accepted definitions of tourism, a person must travel away from their home environment for at least one night in order to be a tourist (although I would argue that this definition needs updating given that it doesn’t account for novel forms of tourism such as a staycation or virtual tourism ).

Based on this fact, therefore, transport is an integral component of tourism. Without transport, people cannot reach their intended destination.

There are a range of different transport types. The most common and popular methods of transport that make up the structure of the tourism industry, however, are: air, road, train and water .

Travel by air has grown exponentially in the past few decades. With the introduction of low cost airlines and deregulation, the competitive market has been a tourist’s paradise.

New routes opening up has introduced tourists to areas that they may never have been able to reach before and low prices have resulted in more of us taking more trips abroad using air travel as our means of transportation.

Travel by air is an essential component of tourism and this was demonstrated during the Coronavirus epidemic. During this time most air traffic was halted, which had a devastating impact of the tourism industry world-wide.

Travel by road is also a core component of tourism, particularly for domestic tourism .

Travel by road is more popular in some countries than others. This largely depends on accessibility options (i.e. what is accessible by road), distances required and road conditions.

In destinations where travel by road is popular, there are often many car hire or rental companies.

Travel by train is very popular in destinations that have good rail networks in infrastructure.

In some parts of the world, such as China and Japan, there are world-class high-speed railways that can be more efficient than flying.

In other parts of the world, the rail journey is part of the tourism experience. A good example of this is the Siberian Railway.

In Europe you can buy an affordable interrail pass , which allows you to travel throughout Europe using the rail system.

Travel by water is also an important component of tourism.

The structure of the tourism industry includes cruises, ferries and leisure boats, among other types of travel by water.

Travel by water can vary considerably in price and can include anything from a round the world cruise to a short long tail ride in Thailand .

Components of tourism: Accommodation services

Accommodation services make up an important part of the structure of the tourism industry.

Whilst accommodation services were traditionally focussed mainly around the hotel industry, nowadays accommodation options for tourists are much more varied. This adds an additional layer of complexity to the structure of the tourism industry.

There are many hotel chains that operate throughout the tourism industry and that are a key component of tourism.

Multinational corporations have expanded throughout the tourism industry with key players being hotel chains such as Marriott, Radisson, Hilton, Travel Lodge and Holiday Inn.

However, hotel chains such as these have come under increased scrutiny as a result of the economic leakage in tourism that they cause.

Hostels and budget accommodation options are popular with budget travellers and backpackers.

There are a range of hostels found throughout the world. These are particularly popular in destinations where accommodation is expensive, such as London, New York and Singapore.

The Youth Hostel Association (YHA) and Hostelling International are popular hostel providers that are found across the UK and overseas.

Billy Butlin changed the face of the British holiday market with the introduction of his seaside holiday parks back in 1936.

Since this time, other similar chains have expanded throughout the UK and the rest of the world.

Camping is also an important component of tourism. There are camp sites situated throughout the world ranging from safari camps to glamping (glamorous camping).

Homestays have become an increasingly prominent component of tourism.

Whilst bed and breakfast accommodation has been around for a very long time, nowadays there are many more options that are grounded on the concept of a homestay.

The sharing economy has seen the growth and introduction of many types of accommodations into the travel and tourism sector that did not exist before.

The most popular of these is Airbnb, where people rent out a room or an entire property to tourists. You can read more about how Airbnb works here .

In recent years consumers have been demanding new and unusual experiences more than ever. In response to this, we have seen many accommodation innovations emerge throughout the world.

From staying in an ice hotel in Finland, to sleeping in a hammock in Borneo to a night in a haunted castle in Wales, there are many different types of accommodation options that can make your holiday a little bit more exciting!

Components of tourism: Conferences and events

Conferences and events make up a significant part of the structure of the tourism industry.

Conferences, which often come under business tourism , come in all shapes and sizes around the world.

From a small academic gathering to a large-scale summit involving national leaders from around the world, conferences are an important component of tourism.

Likewise, the event sector is also a significant part of the tourism industry.

There are millions of events that take place around the world each year that vary in size and function. Many of these form an integral part of the tourism industry.

Examples of major conferences and events around the world

There are many major conferences and events that take place around the world every year. Here are a few of my favourites:

The World Travel Market (WTM) is held in London each November. This is a large event that is held at the Excel venue.

WTM provides travel industry experts with the opportunity to showcase their work, learn more about the industry and to network.

ITB is the world’s leading international travel trade show. It is held in Berlin each year.

Similar to the WTM, this large-scale event enables industry professionals to network and undertake continuous professional development.

The vast majority of people are familiar with the Football World Cup.

The Football World Cup is held every four years in a different location.

The Football World Cup attracts millions of tourists from all over the world. The event also acts as a stimuli for tourism as the nation will often use the opportunity of hosting the event as a chance to market tourism in the area to those who are tuning in from their TVs from around the world.

Sports tourism , which includes events such as the Football World Cup, contributes significantly to the overall tourism industry.

Glastonbury is a popular British music festival. It takes place each summer in Somerset.

Glastonbury is a five-day festival of contemporary performing arts. In addition to music, the festival hosts dance, comedy, theatre, circus, cabaret, and other arts to entertain visitors.

Glastonbury attracts many domestic tourists as well as international tourists.

San Fermin is a festival that is held in Pamplona, Spain each July.

San Fermin, also known as the ‘Running of the Bulls’ is a historically-rooted festival that lasts five days. It involves dancing, eating and drinking, games and the famous bull races and fights.

San Fermin has been subject to a lot of controversy in recent years, with many people protesting that it is a cruel form of animal tourism .

Holi Festival is known as the ‘festival of spring’, the ‘festival of colours’ or the ‘festival of love’.

Holi Festival is celebrated in India each year during the month of March.

Holi Festival is famous for the way in which coloured paints are used and often thrown onto people’s faces and clothes.

This is a Hindu festival that signifies the victory of good over evil.

The Day of the Dead festival, locally referred to as ‘Dia de los Muertos’, is a festival that is celebrated in November each year in Mexico.

This day is a celebration of the deceased, whereby it is believed that the alive and the dead are reunited. On this day many people will create offerings for the deceased.

Many people choose to dress up as skeletons and in halloween-type outfits and they celebrate with food, drink and music.

Components of tourism: Attractions

An essential component of the tourism industry are the tourist attractions.

There are a multitude of different tourist attractions around the world.

Some are built, some are natural. Some are paid, some are free. Some are famous, others are not. Some are large and some are small.

Natural attractions are just as it says on the tin – natural. In other words, they are attractions that have not been made by man.

Natural attractions are found all over the world and vary in size and scope. There is even a definitive list of the seven natural wonders of the world .

I have visited many natural attractions around the world, here is a list of some of my favourites:

• Drakansburg Mountains, South Africa
• Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
• Mount Toubkal, Morocco
• Sahara Desert, Morocco
• Red Sea, Egypt
• Dead Sea, Israel
• Sierra Nevada, Spain
• Chicken Island, Thailand
• Niagara Falls, USA
• Rocky Mountains, Canada
• Pammukale Thermal Pools, Turkey
• Iceland (the island is filled with wonderful natural attractions!)
• Amazon Rainforest , Ecuador
• Cenotes, Mexico
• Iguazu Falls, Brazil
• The Great Barrier Reef, Australia
• Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
• Waterways of Kerela, India
• Mount Hallasan, South Korea

Built attractions also make up an important part of the structure of the tourism industry.

There are many built attractions throughout the world. Some attractions are built for the purpose of tourism, such as theme parks or museums. Other attractions are built for other purposes but then become tourist attractions, such as the Empire State Building or the Sydney Opera House.

I have visited many built attractions throughout the world. Here are some of my favourites:

• Robin Island, South Africa
• The Pyramids of Giza, Egypt
• La Sagrada Familia, Spain
• The Eiffel Tower, France
• The United States Capitol Building, USA
• Statue of Liberty, New York
• Petronas Towers, Malaysia
• Marina Sands Bay Hotel, Singapore
• Angkor Wat, Cambodia
• Taj Mahal, India
• Sydney Harbour Bridge, Australia
• Houses of Parliament, UK
• Sheikh Zayed Mosque, UAE

Components of tourism: Tourism services

Tourism services are an essential component of tourism. Without many tourism services, the tourism industry would fail to adequately function.

Below I will explain the three major tourism services that make up the structure of the tourism industry.

A tour operator is the individual or organisation who puts together a trip.

Typically, a tour operator would package together essential elements including accommodation, transport and transfer. They would then sell this package to the tourists.

However, tour operators are becoming fewer in recent years. Consumers are now far more Internet savvy and are more capable of researching the individual elements of their holiday and booking this independently. This is known as dynamic packaging .

Traditionally, a travel agent would sell the product that the tour operator has produced i.e. the package holiday.

While travel agents have and continue to sell individual holiday components, they have historically been most commonly used by tourists who wish to book a package holiday.

In today’s society, there is far less scope for travel agents than there used to be. A few years ago it would be easy to finish school and to get a job in a travel agent selling holidays. Now, however, people are more likely to set up their own travel agent business online or to be employed by an online retailer.

Many high street stores have now closed as there is little demand these days for holidays to be booked in this way. Instead, many people are selling holidays and travel services via their blogs or websites.

The travel agent does still exist, but he has changed the way he looks.

Ancillary services are another core component of tourism.

Ancillary basically means ‘extra’ or ‘additional’. An ancillary service in the context of tourism, therefore, is any product or service that is additional to the core elements of accommodation, transport and transfer.

Here are some examples of ancillary products:

• Attraction tickets
• Meal tickets
• Extra luggage
• Currency exchange
• Airport parking

As you can see, the tourism industry is large and complex, but understanding the different components of tourism isn’t too difficult.

All of the components of tourism are interconnected in one way or another and many rely on one another to be successful.

Want to learn more about the structure of tourism? I have listed some recommended texts below.

• An Introduction to Tourism : a comprehensive and authoritative introduction to all facets of tourism including: the history of tourism; factors influencing the tourism industry; tourism in developing countries; sustainable tourism; forecasting future trends.
• The Business of Tourism Management : an introduction to key aspects of tourism, and to the practice of managing a tourism business.
• Tourism Management: An Introduction : gives its reader a strong understanding of the dimensions of tourism, the industries of which it is comprised, the issues that affect its success, and the management of its impact on destination economies, environments and communities.

Liked this article? Click to share!

• Course Creator Tools
• Tourism Essentials
• Business Class Podcast
• Knowledge Base

Do you have a glossary of travel, tourism & hospitality terms?

Every industry has its own jargon and lingo. tourism is no different. here's a great list of tourism terms that you should know..

The list has been compiled by the world-class team of strategists, consultants, educators and established tourism experts at the nonprofit Tourism Academy . Our team offers relationship powered professional development, trade marketing, tourism development and consulting solutions. 

Glossary of Tourism Terms

adventure travel:  a type of niche tourism, involving exploration or travel with a certain degree of risk (real or perceived), and which may require special skills and physical exertion 

affinity group : a group of people linked by a common interest or purpose. See also pre- formed group. 

agent : one who acts or has the power to act as the representative of another. A person whose job it is to arrange travel for end clients (individuals, groups, corporations), confirming travel components and simplifying the planning process for customers, providing consultation services and travel packages. 

American Bus Association (ABA) : A trade organization consisting of member bus lines throughout the country. www.buses.org 

American National Standards Institute (ANSI): A private non-profit organization that oversees the development of voluntary consensus standards for products, services, processes, systems, and personnel in the United States. www.ansi.org

American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA):  The oldest and largest travel agent organization in the world with travel agents being the primary members. Other companies providing travel industry products and services can be associate members. www.astanet.com 

Application Programming Interface  ( API) : a code that allows two software programs to communicate with each other. 

attrition : Shortfall of sleeping room block pick-up or food-and-beverage projections from numbers agreed to in a contract. Penalties for attrition may be outlined in a contract’s attrition clause. 

Average Daily Rate (ADR) : a statistical unit that represents the average rental income per paid occupied room in a given time period. 

back of house : a business term that refers to parts of a business operation that customers do not see. This may refer to mechanical rooms, accounting offices, kitchens, and those persons who are engaged in those areas. 

block : a group of rooms, tickets, seats or space reserved for a specific customer - usually for a set period of time. Room blocks are commonly reserved for conventions, meetings or groups in general. Room blocks may also be allocated to high volume buyers (wholesale, receptive, tour) who intend to sell them as tour components on an ongoing basis. A room block is usually under a firm agreement and is for a set period of time. 

Brand USA : A public/private partnership to promote inbound tourism to the United States and communicate US entry/exit policies. Also known as the Corporation for Travel Promotion. www.thebrandusa.com 

bulk pricing : the practice of offering exceptionally low, typically non-commissionable rates to high volume buyers who purchase a specified number of units to resell at a mark up. 

campaign : A specific, defined series of activities used in marketing a new or changed product or service, or in using new marketing channels and methods. 

Certified Tour Professional (CTP) : A designation administered by the National Tour Foundation and conferred upon tour professionals who complete prescribed evaluation requirements. 

certificate:  an official document attesting to a fact such as a level of achievement in a course of study or training.

certification: the action or process of providing someone or something with an official document attesting to a status or level of achievement. See also: American National Standards Institute

certified: officially recognized as possessing certain qualifications or meeting certain standards. 

Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) : A designation conferred upon travel professionals who have completed a travel management program offered by the Institute of Certified Travel Agents. 

Certified Meeting Planner (CMP) : A designation conferred upon convention and meeting management professionals who have completed an application and written exam offered by the Events Industry Council. 

channel manager : a system or platform that coordinates the distribution of product details, inventory and pricing in real time across multiple sales “channels” 

charter : to hire for exclusive use any aircraft, motorcoach, cruise ship or other vehicle 

class of service : a parameter used to differentiate the types of accommodation offered by travel suppliers, often denoted by fare code on air tickets. Classes may reflect differences in space, comfort, amenities and cabin service. Ex: First Class, Business Class, Coach Class or please hold this chicken until we land. 

commercial rate : A special rate given by a hotel or rental car, motor coach, bus or passenger transport company to an organization based on either the volume of business done or the type of accommodation or rental car. Also referred to as a corporate rate. 

commission : The varying amount paid by suppliers to travel agents for the sale of travel products and services. 

commissioned tours : A tour available for sale through retail and wholesale travel agencies, which provides for a payment of an agreed upon sales commission either to the retail or wholesale seller.

complementary : goods or services that add to the value of another good or service. Ex: peanut butter complements jelly

complimentary (comp) : Service, space or item given at no charge.

complimentary (comp) ratio : The number of rooms, tickets, meals or service items provided at no cost based on the number of occupied rooms.

• The industry standard is one complimentary room per 20-50 rooms occupied per day. 
• The industry standard for ticketed attractions and restaurants is one complimentary admission/meal per 10-20 paid. 

complimentary registration : Waiver of registration fees. 

concierge : a hotel employee whose job is to assist guests by arranging tours, local transportation, making reservations for theater or restaurants, etc. 

Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) : A nonprofit organization supported by bed taxes, government budget allocations, private memberships or a combination of these. A CVB promotes tourism, encourages groups to hold meetings and trade shows in its city, and assists groups before and during meetings. 

consolidator : a person or company which forms groups to travel using group rates on to increase sales, earn override commissions or reduce the possibility of tour cancellations. 

consortium : a loosely knit group of independently owned and managed companies such as travel agencies, tour operators, hotels, or other suppliers, with a joint marketing distribution process 

convention and visitors bureau (CVB) : a nonprofit local organizations charged with representing (and promoting) a specific destination. CVBs are funded by transient room taxes, government budget allocations, private membership dues, sponsorship sales and program participation fees, or a combination of these mechanisms.  See also: destination marketing organization 

co-op marketing: outreach activities that help multiple suppliers reach the target audience by sharing costs, resources and tactics. 

course: a series of lessons or modules to teach the skills and knowledge for a particular job or activity. 

destination : a place where travelers might visit. This may be any neighborhood, city, region or country that can be marketing as a single entity for tourists. 

destination management company (DMC) : Company or professional individual engaged in organizing tours, meetings of all types and their related activities. Also referred to as a ground operator. 

destination marketing organization (DMO) : A nonprofit marketing organization for a city, state, province, region or area whose primary purpose is the promotion of the destination.  See also: convention & visitors bureau 

direct spend : the value of goods and services purchased by tourists (e.g., attraction ticket, hotel room rate and meals) 

double double : refers to a room containing two separate double beds, capable of sleeping up to four guests comfortably, sometimes referred to as a “quad” 

double occupancy rate : the price per person for a room that will be shared between two people 

dynamic pricing : the practice of varying the price for a product or service to reflect changing market conditions, in particular the charging of a higher price during times of greater demand. This is the opposite of static pricing. 

educational travel : a type of niche tourism, built around learning objectives, often to the benefit of students and/or those who share a common interest, hobby or profession 

emerging market : A group of customers who do not provide as much business as the target markets, but show interest in the destination. 

escort : a person employed or contracted by a seller of packaged travel product who accompanies tour participants from point to point often acting as a the tour operator liaison and onsite problem solver. 

escorted tour : a packaged, pre-planned itinerary that includes the services of a tour manager or tour escort who accompanies participants for the full duration of the tour 

escrow : a legal concept and financial instrument whereby assets are held by a third party on behalf of two other parties that are in the process of completing a transaction. In many places, agents and tour operators are required by law to maintain customer deposits and pre-payments in escrow until the time of service. 

excursion : a trip made for leisure, education or physical purposes. It is often an adjunct to a longer journey, cruise or visit to a place. 

familiarization tour (FAM) : A program designed to acquaint participants with specific destinations or services. Offered in groups and on an individual basis. 

folio : an itemized record of guest charges and credits, often referred to as a guest bill or statement. 

frequent independent travel (FIT) : A custom-designed, pre-paid travel package with many individualized arrangements. An FIT operator specializes in preparing FITs documents at the request of retail travel agents. FITs usually receive travel vouchers to present to onsite services as verification or pre-payment. Also known as foreign individual/independent travel or frequent individual travel. 

front office : a business term that refers to a company’s departments that come in direct contact with customers. 

gateway : a city, airport, port or area where visitors arrive. International gateway refers to places where foreign visitors may first enter a country. 

ground operator : a company or individual providing local accommodations, transfers, ticketing and related services.  See also: receptive operator 

group booking : Reservation for a block of rooms for a single group. 

group tour : A prearranged, prepaid travel program for a group usually including transportation, accommodations, attraction admissions and meals. Also referred to as a package tour. 

guaranteed departure : a tour that will definitely operate on the day it is scheduled and will not be cancelled. 

Horizontal Market : audiences for products or services that are not easily distinguished by consumer characteristics. Examples of horizontal markets include those for computer security, legal or accounting services. 

Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI):  A trade association for hotel sales, marketing and revenue management professionals. 

hotel classifications : Classification of a hotel by its amenities, facilities, service and cost. Qualifications and terms may vary by country. 

• limited service or economy  is generally a reasonably priced, generally providing a bed, telephone, TV, shower and free parking. They often do not have room service or a restaurant. 
• full service  may refer to a property of any price category that offers some meeting space and features a restaurant onsite 
• moderate  medium-priced property with services and amenities such as a restaurant and possibly conference rooms. 
• upper moderate  is a property that offers special services such as a first-rate restaurant, banquet and conference rooms, valet service, room service, cable TV, and a host of other amenities. 
• luxury or deluxe  is a top-grade hotel or resort offering the highest service and the maximum variety of amenities. All rooms have a private bath, and all the usual public rooms and services are provided. 
• boutique  is loosely used to describe properties that have typically between 10 and 100 rooms and often contain luxury facilities in unique or intimate settings with full service accommodations. 

hub and spoke : a style of tour that has guests staying in a single location with excursions to nearby destinations 

incentive tour : travel experience offered to stimulate employee productivity or as a reward for sales agents 

incidentals : items not included in the package price 

inclusive : referring to a package or product price that includes all of the varying components, taxes and gratuities for a flat rate. An inclusive tour may include transportation, lodging, transfers, etc. for a set price. An inclusive meal might include food, drink, tax and gratuity. 

independent tour : a style of travel packaging that allows visitors to move about without the accompaniment of a tour manager or escort 

indirect spend : the value of all goods and services used to produce tourism output. (e.g., toiletries for hotel guests, ingredients for meals and plastic used in souvenirs) 

International Inbound Travel Association (IITA) : A trade association of inbound receptive tour operators and suppliers from the US. Formerly RSAA Receptive Services Association of America. 

incentive travel : A travel reward given by companies to employees to stimulate productivity. Also known as an incentive trip. 

inclusive tour : A specific package in which all components of the package are part of the price. Generally, an inclusive package includes transportation, lodging, meals, gratuities and taxes, and some form of sightseeing or rental car. The terms and conditions of a tour contract should specify exactly what is covered. Also referred to as an all-expense tour and an all-inclusive tour. 

inclusive rate : The rate charged to an operator that includes all service, tax, gratuities and additional fees. 

IPW : A computerized scheduled appointment show for international tour operators always held in the United States and sponsored by U.S. Travel Association. Formerly known as Pow Wow. 

itinerary : a schedule of travel components put together by an agent or operator. 

leg : a portion of a journey between two scheduled stops.

lesson: an amount of teaching given at one time; a period of learning or teaching.  

market segment : a group of consumers or buyer types that share one or more common characteristics, lumped together for sales or marketing purposes. 

markup : the difference between the cost of a good or service and its selling price. 

meet and greet : Pre-purchased service for meeting and greeting a client upon arrival in a city, usually at the airport, and assisting the client with entrance formalities, baggage and transportation. 

microlearning : a tool for training, teaching and development that delivers content in small, very specific bursts. 

module: each of a set of standardized parts or independent units that can be used to construct a more complex structure such as an item of furniture or a building. multiple lessons may be combined to create a module.  

motor coach : A large, comfortable, well-powered bus that can transport groups and their luggage over long distances. Motor coaches are normally able to accommodate 46 to 54 passengers. 

motor coach tour operator : A company that creates tours in which group members are transported via motor coach to their destination, itinerary activities and back. 

mystery tour : a short journey, usually in a bus, that people make for pleasure without knowing where they are going. 

NAJ : Producers of the RTO (receptive tour operator) summit and similar small trade show formats with a regional focus. Also referred to as North American Journeys 

net rate : A wholesale rate for groups (usually 10-15 people) which an operator may add a mark up. 

NTA (formerly National Tour Association) : A trade association of North American motor coach tour operators. www.ntaonline.com 

occupancy : the percentage of available rooms in use during a given period. 

online travel agent (OTA) : a travel website that specialized in the sale of travel products to consumers 

outbound operator (or outbound tour) : A company or tour that takes groups from a given city or country to another city or country. 

Ontario Motor Coach Association (OMCA) : A trade association of motorcoach operators based in and around Ontario province. 

package : Travel arrangements with two or more components offered for one price, inclusive of all taxes. Also refers to a single-fee booth package offered by show management. 

packager : An individual or organization that coordinates and promotes the development of a package tour and establishes operating procedures and guidelines for that tour. 

performance tour operator : A tour operator company that focuses on planning trips for groups that must perform while traveling like school bands, choral groups, etc. 

plus plus : a term used to describe a product price that does not include taxes, gratuities and/or service charges. Ex: The meal is $15 plus tax and gratuity OR $15++. 

pre- and post-trip tours : Optional extension or side trip package offered before or after a meeting, gathering or convention. 

pre-formed group : a group that contacts the tour operator to plan travel exclusively for the group members. 

rack rate : the normal rate of a product or service, before any discounts, commissions or net price arrangements 

receptive operator : A tour operator who provides local services, transfers, sightseeing, guides, etc. Many large receptive operators develop packages and sell them through wholesale tour operators in foreign countries. Also referred to as a ground operator, an inbound tour operator, a land operator, an RTO and a receiving agent. 

retail tour : A tour put together by a tour operator and sold to individuals.

request for proposal (RFP) : A document that stipulates what services the organization wants from an outside contractor and requests a bid to perform such services.

retailer : one who sells directly to the consumer.  See also: travel agent 

return on investment (ROI) : Net profit divided by net worth. A financial ratio indicating the degree of profitability. 

revenue per available room (RevPAR) : A measure used by hotels that divides revenue for a given time period by the number of available rooms for the same time period. 

sales mission : Intense selling effort in a particular locality; calling upon qualify leads. Usually performed by a group of people who may or may not all be in a sales capacity but have an interest in meeting with the same buyers. 

Seasons  (from a buyer/operator perspective): 

• looking The time of year when tour operators are looking at for new activities & vendors to include in future trips. Also known as product or catalog development season. 
• selling The time of year when tour operators are focused on reaching out to their customers, promoting future trips and selling packaged travel programs. 
• booking The time of year when tour operators are booking and confirming tour components they plan to utilize. 
• travel The time of year when the majority of the tour operators’ customers are traveling. 

Seasons  (from a supplier perspective): 

• off-season The time of year when tourist traffic, and often rates, are at their lowest because of decreased demand. Also referred to as low season, off-peak or value season. 
• peak season The time of year when demand and price is at a premium. Also known as high season. 
• shoulder season The season between peak season and off-season when demand is average and the travel product will not produce the highest price but does not need a deep discount to generate traffic.

series : describing a piece of business or scheduled itinerary that takes place on a regular frequency 

site inspection : Personal, careful survey of property, facility or area.

Skål  is a professional, fraternal organization of tourism leaders around the world, promoting global tourism and friendship. 

SMERF : Meetings acronym for a category of meeting market segments including social, military, educational, religious and fraternal type groups. These organizations often are looking for value when selecting a meeting destination. 

supplier : The actual provider of a travel product such as the hotel, attraction, restaurant, airline or car rental agency; not the travel agent or tour operator selling the product. 

STAR (STR) Report : a tool used to measure hotel performance against competitive aggregates and within local markets. Data is collected and distributed by strglobal 

static pricing : the practice of maintaining the same price for a product or service at all times regardless of changing market conditions, trends and demand. This is the opposite of dynamic pricing. 

Student Youth Travel Association (SYTA) : a trade association representing tour operator companies that specialize in student travel. www.syta.com 

tariff : a schedule of rates for a good or services provided by a supplier 

tiered pricing : A pricing structure that offers a variety of price points for different customer types. For more or suggested rates by buyer type. 

tour operator : A person or company that negotiates discount rates, packages travel products, prints brochures, and markets these travel products through travel agents or to the general public. 

tour vouchers : Documents issued by tour operators to be exchanged for accommodations, meals, sightseeing, admission tickets and other services. Also referred to as coupons and tour orders. 

tourism : travel for business or pleasure; also the theory and practice of touring, the business of attracting, accommodating, and entertaining tourists, and the business of operating tours. Tourism may be international, or within the traveler’s country. 

tourism ambassador: an individual possessing the knowledge, skill and training to represent a destination, assist tourists and create better visitor experiences. 

Tourism Cares : A charitable organization that focuses on helping preserve the travel experience for future travelers. www.tourismcares.org 

trade association : Group of persons employed in a particular trade.

trade publication : A magazine or newsletter that targets a specific industry. 

trade show : Exhibit of products and services that is targeted to a specific clientele and not open to the public. 

travel agent (or travel agency) : Person or firm qualified to advise and arrange for travel needs such as hotel rooms, meals, transportation, tours and other travel elements. Represents all travel suppliers worldwide. Also referred to as a retailer. 

Travel Alliance Partners (TAP) : A member-owned organization of tour operators that work together to develop unique itineraries within their respective regions, cross-promote products offered by other members and leverage their collective buying power. www.tapintotravel.com 

travel receipt : purchase of travel and tourism related goods and services by visitors. These goods and services include food, lodging, recreation, gifts, entertainment, local transportation and other items incidental to travel. 

United Motor Coach Association (UMA) : North America's largest association for operators of motorcoach companies providing charter, tour and regular route services. www.uma.org 

United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) : A nationwide organization of tour operators offering protection for travelers purchasing member travel products by way of a multi-million-dollar bond. www.ustoa.com 

Upsell : sales technique where a seller induces the customer to purchase more expensive items, upgrades or other add-ons in an attempt to make a more profitable sale 

U.S. Travel Association : The national, nonprofit association representing all components of the U.S. travel industry. (formerly known as TIA - Travel Industry Association of America) www.ustravel.org 

Vertical Market : used to identify areas where vendors offer goods & services specific to a group of customers with specialized needs. Examples may include customers identified by their areas of origin, age range(s) or interest types. 

Visa : a conditional authorization granted by a country to a foreigner, allowing them to enter, remain within, or to leave that country. 

voluntourism : the act or practice of doing volunteer or charitable work as needed in the communities where one is vacationing 

voucher : documents or digital codes issued to consumers by tour operators that may be exchanged for tour components 

walk-through : Review of meeting details, or inspection of function room or trade show floor prior to event. 

webinar : Short for web-based seminar, a presentation, lecture, workshop or seminar that is transmitted over the web. A key feature of the webinar is its interactive elements – the ability to give, receive and discuss information. Contrast with webcast in which the data transmission is one way and does not allow interaction between the presenter and the audience. 

wholesaler : A company that creates and markets inclusive tours and FITs for sale through travel agents. Often used interchangeably with “tour operator,” but several distinctions should be drawn: a wholesaler presumably sells nothing at retail, a tour operator does both; a wholesaler does not always create his or her own products, a tour operator virtually always does; and a wholesaler is less inclined than a tour operator to perform local services. 

World Tourism Organization (WTO) : An organization created to promote and develop tourism in the interest of the economic, social and cultural progress of all nations. www.world-tourism.org

About the Author

Stephen Ekstrom is the Chief Strategist at The Tourism Academy | tourismacademy.org, featured speaker at numerous tourism industry conferences, travel writer and host of the Business Class podcast.

Snapsolve any problem by taking a picture. Try it in the Numerade app?