Tourism is the world's largest industry, worth $500 billion in 2007.
Leisure accounts for 75% of all international travel
The World Tourism Organization (WTO) measured a rise of 6.1% in international tourism arrivals between 2006 and 2007.
There were nearly 900 million tourist travellers in 2007, and this is set to rise to a massive 1.6 billion by 2020.
In most countries, domestic tourism is between four and five times greater than international tourism.
Tourist Attractions
Many people choose to visit cities to enjoy the culture associated with museums, art galleries, architecture or shops and restaurants.
The natural landscape is also a major 'pull' for tourists, particularly montains such as the Alps in Europe, or the beautiful stretches of coastline found in the Mediterranean or the Caribbean.
Reasons for the Growth in Tourism
Greater Affluence
People in the UK now earn a higher salary, certainly more than 20 years ago.
People in full-time employmeny now receive paid leave, at least three weeks a year. This means that they can afford to have more than one holiday a year and can travel further.
Greater Mobility
An increase in car ownership means that people have greater freedom to choose where and when to go. In 1951, only 1 UK famliy in 20 had a car, now 74% have at least one car.
Chartered aircraft have reduced the cost of travelling overseas.
'Budget' airlines.
Improved Accessibility and Transport Facilities
Motorways are urban bypasses have reduced driving times between places; people can now travel more frequently and quickly.
Improved and enlarged airports.
Computerised reservations.
Package holidays.
More Leisure Time
Shorter working week (although still the longest in the EU!)
Longer paid holidays (3 weeks)
Flexitime - more people working from home.
An ageing population, many of whom are still active.
Changing Lifestyles
People are retiring early and are able to take advantage of their greater fitness.
As stress seems to increase more people need longer/more frequent breaks.
Changing fashions, e.g. health resorts, fitness, holidays, winter sun...
Changing Recreational Activities
Slight decrease in beach holidays - awareness of skin cancer
Increase in active holidays - skiing, water sports
Rapid growth in cruise holidays since 1990s
Importance of theme parks
Advertising and TV Programmes
Holiday programmes, e.g. 'Wish you were here'
Magazines
'Green' or Sustainable Tourism
Greater numbers of people wishing to pursue this type of holiday which has no adverse/damaging impact on the environment and local people.
Need to benefit the local economy, environment and people.