Leiper’s Model of Tourism System
Tourism has become an essential part of the global economy, and it has been growing rapidly over the past few decades. Understanding the tourism system is crucial for managing and developing sustainable tourism. One such model that helps in understanding the tourism system is Leiper’s Model of Tourism System.
Leiper’s Model of Tourism System is a conceptual model that describes the relationships between different elements of the tourism system. The model was developed by Professor Neil Leiper in 1979, and it has since been used extensively in tourism research and planning.
The model consists of three main elements: tourist generating regions (TGRs), transit routes, and destination regions (DRs). These elements are interconnected through various linkages, as shown in the diagram below.
Elements of Leiper’s Model
Tourist Generating Regions (TGRs)
Tourist Generating Regions are regions where tourists originate from. These regions are characterized by their social, cultural, economic, and political characteristics. TGRs can be countries, cities, or even neighborhoods.
Transit Routes
Transit routes refer to the transportation networks that connect TGRs to DRs. These could be air or sea routes or even road networks. Transit routes play a critical role in shaping tourist flows and influencing destination choices.
Destination Regions (DRs)
Destination Regions are places where tourists visit for leisure or business purposes. DRs can be cities, towns, natural attractions or cultural sites. They are characterized by their unique natural or cultural resources that attract tourists.
Linkages
The three elements of Leiper’s Model are interconnected through several linkages:
- Marketing and promotion linkages
- Transport linkages
- Travel trade linkages
- Ownership and control linkages
- Destination management linkages
- Total tourism product linkages
Marketing and Promotion Linkages
Marketing and promotion linkages refer to the different marketing activities that are undertaken to attract tourists. These include advertising, public relations, and sales promotions. The success of marketing activities is dependent on the cooperation between TGRs, transit routes, and DRs.
Transport Linkages
Transport linkages refer to the transportation systems that connect TGRs to DRs. These include airlines, cruise ships, buses, trains, and other modes of transport.
Travel Trade Linkages
Travel trade linkages refer to the various travel intermediaries that operate between TGRs and DRs. These intermediaries include travel agents, tour operators, wholesalers, and retailers.
Ownership and Control Linkages
Ownership and control linkages refer to the ownership structure of tourism facilities in DRs. This includes hotels, resorts, restaurants, attractions, and other tourism-related businesses.
Destination Management Linkages
Destination management linkages refer to the coordination between local government authorities in managing tourism destinations. This includes infrastructure development, environmental management, and cultural preservation.
Total Tourism Product Linkages
Total tourism product linkages refer to the integration of all elements of the tourism system into a cohesive product. This includes accommodation facilities, transportation networks, attractions, events, and other tourism-related services.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Leiper’s Model of Tourism System provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the complex relationships between different elements of the tourism system. The model highlights the importance of cooperation and coordination between TGRs, transit routes, and DRs in developing sustainable tourism. By understanding the linkages between these elements, tourism planners and policymakers can design more effective strategies for managing and promoting tourism.