Definition of Tourism and Hospitality

Definition of Tourism and Hospitality

• Tourism comes from the Hebrew word "torah," signifying study, learning, and exploration.
• Defined as spending time away from home for recreation, relaxation, and pleasure through commercial services.
• Tourism's origins trace back to 17th century Western Europe, with contributions from ancient civilizations.
• Goeldner and Richie define tourism as interactions among tourists, suppliers, and the environment.

Hospitality

• Derived from the Latin word "hospitare," meaning "to receive a guest."
• Involves welcoming guests and providing necessities like food, beverages, and lodging.
• Hospitality encompasses businesses that provide food, lodging, and services to travelers.
• Both tourism and hospitality mutually influence and contribute to national economies and societal development.

Relationship Between Tourism and Hospitality

• Each sector impacts and depends on the other; destinations with good hospitality attract more tourists.
• Increased tourism demands better accommodation and dining options, enhancing hospitality services.
• The growth of these sectors improves economic conditions and creates employment opportunities.

Types of Tours

• Tour operators offer package tours, purchasing transportation and accommodation in bulk at discounted rates.
• Tourists can also choose independent tours, booking services individually.
• Group inclusive tours (GIT) involve traveling with other tourists, whereas independent inclusive tours (IIT) are solo journeys.

The Tourist Product

• In narrow terms, it consists of what tourists purchase; in broader terms, it includes experiences at the destination.
• Services offered are intangible and require trust from consumers, making a package tour a psychological commitment.
• Quality and standard may vary, affected by factors like transportation and accommodations.

Tourist Destination

• Defined as a geographical area visited by tourists, such as towns, regions, or countries.
• Success hinges on attractions, amenities, and accessibility; these components must work in harmony.

Accessibility

• Refers to the ease of reaching a destination via various transportation methods.
• Surface transportation (road and rail) is economical and reliable.
• Air transportation is quick, often used for long distances; water transport was pivotal in 19th-century travel.

Accommodation

• A variety of lodging options exists, from luxury hotels to budget accommodations to fit different tourist preferences.

Attractions

• Attractions initiate tourism; they can be natural or man-made and are crucial for drawing visitors.
• Natural attractions include landscapes, flora, fauna, climates, and beaches.
• Man-made attractions encompass historical sites, festivals, and entertainment venues.
• Good weather is a significant attraction, especially for seaside resorts.

Amenities

• Essential facilities enhance tourist experiences, including recreational activities and services at tourist centers.
• Types of amenities include both natural (beaches, mountains) and man-made (restaurants, entertainment venues).

Safety and Security

• Safety is crucial for successful tourism; visitors require a sense of security to enjoy their experiences.

Tourism and Hospitality Characteristics

• These sectors require consumers to travel to products, unlike many other industries that deliver products to consumers.
• The products are sustainable and do not exhaust natural resources, contrasting with conventional industries.
• The sectors are labor-intensive, employing large workforces, and are affected by seasonal variations in demand.
• They must adapt to changing consumer preferences and market dynamics.

Importance of Tourism and Hospitality

• This industry is vital globally, with benefits including:
  • Contribution to the balance of payments through foreign currency earnings.
  • Economic development and spreading wealth, reducing income disparities.
  • Enhancing general economic growth, benefiting diverse sectors.
  • Job creation, particularly in regions with high unemployment rates.
  • Social interactions that enrich local cultures and influence social structures.
  • Cultural exchange fostering mutual respect and understanding.
  • Educational opportunities provided through travel experiences.