Introduction to tourism
Definition of Tourism
Tourism refers to the temporary movement of people from their normal place of residence to destinations outside their usual environment for pleasure, business, or other purposes, and their activities during their stay at these destinations.
According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO):
“Tourism comprises the activities of persons traveling to and staying in places outside their usual environment for not more than one consecutive year for leisure, business, or other purposes.”
2. Key Terms
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Tourist | A person who travels to another place for at least 24 hours but not more than one year for leisure, business, or other purposes. |
| Excursionist (Same-day visitor) | A visitor who spends less than 24 hours in a destination. |
| Destination | The place where a tourist chooses to visit. |
| Tourism industry | All businesses and services that cater to tourists (hotels, transport, travel agencies, attractions, etc.). |
| Tourist attraction | A place of interest where tourists visit, usually for its natural, cultural, or historical value. |
3. Types of Tourism
Tourism can be classified in several ways:
(a) According to Origin
-
Domestic Tourism – Residents traveling within their own country.
Example: A Kenyan visiting Maasai Mara. -
International Tourism – Tourists traveling to another country.
Example: A German visiting Kenya.*
(b) According to Purpose
-
Leisure Tourism – For rest, relaxation, and recreation.
-
Business Tourism – For meetings, conferences, or work-related purposes.
-
Cultural Tourism – Visiting cultural sites and participating in traditions.
-
Religious Tourism – Visiting holy places (e.g., Mecca, Jerusalem).
-
Health Tourism – Traveling for medical treatment or wellness.
-
Educational Tourism – Traveling to learn or study.
-
Sports Tourism – Traveling to participate in or watch sports.
-
Ecotourism – Environmentally responsible travel to natural areas.
(c) According to Duration
-
Short-term Tourism – Stay less than 24 hours.
-
Long-term Tourism – Stay longer than 24 hours but not more than one year.
4. Components of Tourism
Tourism involves several key elements known as the “Five A’s”:
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Attractions | Natural, cultural, or man-made features that draw tourists. |
| Accessibility | Transportation facilities that make travel possible. |
| Accommodation | Lodging facilities such as hotels, lodges, camps, etc. |
| Amenities | Supporting services (banks, communication, health services). |
| Activities | Things tourists can do at the destination (sightseeing, hiking). |
5. Importance of Tourism
Tourism plays a major role in economic and social development:
(a) Economic Importance
-
Generates foreign exchange earnings.
-
Creates employment opportunities.
-
Encourages investment in infrastructure.
-
Promotes regional development.
-
Contributes to GDP growth.
(b) Social and Cultural Importance
-
Promotes cultural exchange and understanding.
-
Helps in preservation of culture and heritage.
-
Improves living standards through income generation.
(c) Environmental Importance
-
Encourages conservation of natural resources.
-
Promotes environmental awareness through ecotourism.
6. Negative Impacts of Tourism
Despite its benefits, tourism can have negative effects if not managed well:
| Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Economic | Inflation, overdependence on tourism, income leakage. |
| Social/Cultural | Loss of traditions, cultural erosion, crowding. |
| Environmental | Pollution, habitat destruction, waste generation. |
7. Factors Influencing Tourism Development
-
Political stability and security
-
Transport and infrastructure
-
Government policies
-
Marketing and promotion
-
Natural attractions and climate
-
Hospitality and quality of services
-
Availability of accommodation facilities
8. Careers in Tourism
Tourism offers a wide range of career opportunities, including:
-
Tour guide / Tour operator
-
Travel agent
-
Hotel manager
-
Air hostess / Flight attendant
-
Cruise ship staff
-
Event and conference planner
-
Tourism officer / Destination manager
-
Eco-tourism specialist
9. Agencies and Organizations in Tourism
-
UNWTO (United Nations World Tourism Organization)
-
WTTC (World Travel and Tourism Council)
-
Kenya Tourism Board (KTB)
-
Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS)
-
Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife
-
Tour Operators’ Association of Kenya (TOAK)
10. Emerging Trends in Tourism
-
Sustainable tourism
-
Community-based tourism
-
Virtual tourism (online tours)
-
Adventure and experiential tourism
-
Green or eco-friendly accommodation
1. importance of studying tourism
IMPORTANCE OF STUDYING TOURISM
Studying tourism is important because it helps individuals, communities, and countries understand how to manage, develop, and benefit from tourism activities in a sustainable way.
1. Employment Opportunities
-
Tourism is one of the world’s largest employers.
-
By studying tourism, students gain the skills needed to work in hotels, travel agencies, tour companies, airlines, and related sectors.
-
It prepares learners for various careers such as tour guides, travel agents, event managers, hotel managers, and tourism officers.
2. Economic Development
-
Tourism contributes greatly to a country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
-
Professionals trained in tourism help promote destinations, attract visitors, and increase foreign exchange earnings.
-
Studying tourism enables learners to understand how to plan and market tourism for national growth.
3. Promotion of Cultural Understanding
-
Tourism involves interaction among people from different backgrounds.
-
Through tourism education, learners appreciate diverse cultures, traditions, and values, promoting tolerance and global understanding.
4. Environmental Conservation
-
Tourism studies emphasize sustainable and eco-friendly practices.
-
Learners are trained on how to protect natural resources, wildlife, and cultural heritage while developing tourism activities.
5. Entrepreneurship and Innovation
-
Studying tourism encourages creativity and entrepreneurship.
-
Graduates can start their own tourism-related businesses such as travel agencies, lodges, event companies, or tour operations.
6. Improved Service Delivery
-
Tourism training equips learners with skills in communication, customer service, hospitality, and management, which are essential for handling tourists professionally.
7. National Image and International Relations
-
Trained tourism professionals help improve the country’s image abroad through quality services and positive tourist experiences.
-
Tourism also strengthens international cooperation and peace among nations.
8. Planning and Policy Development
-
Tourism students learn how to plan, manage, and implement tourism policies effectively.
-
This helps governments and organizations design strategies for sustainable tourism growth.
9. Personal Development
-
Studying tourism builds confidence, communication, leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
-
It also provides opportunities for travel and learning from real-world experiences.
10. Community Empowerment
-
Tourism education empowers communities to participate in and benefit from tourism projects, reducing poverty and improving living standards.
✅ Summary
| Aspect | Importance |
|---|---|
| Economic | Increases employment, income, and investment. |
| Social | Promotes cultural exchange and unity. |
| Environmental | Encourages conservation and sustainable development. |
| Educational | Builds skills, knowledge, and professional growth. |
| Community | Promotes local participation and empowerment. |