What Is Tourism According to World Tourism?

By Anna Duncan

Tourism has become one of the largest and fastest-growing industries in the world. According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), tourism is defined as “the activities of persons traveling to and staying in places outside their usual environment for not more than one consecutive year for leisure, business, and other purposes.” In this article, we’ll explore what tourism is according to the UNWTO and its impact on the world.

Types of Tourism

Tourism can be classified into various types based on different criteria. Here are a few types of tourism:

Domestic Tourism: When people travel within their country for leisure or business purposes. Inbound Tourism: When people from other countries travel to a particular country.

Outbound Tourism: When people from a particular country travel to other countries. International Tourism: It includes inbound and outbound tourism. Rural Tourism: When tourists visit rural areas for leisure or educational purposes.

The Importance of Tourism

Tourism plays a crucial role in the economy of many countries. It contributes to job creation, infrastructure development, foreign exchange earnings, and cultural exchange.

According to UNWTO, international tourist arrivals reached 1.5 billion in 2019, representing a 4% increase compared to the previous year. This growth shows how important tourism has become globally.

The Impact of Tourism

While tourism has many benefits, it also has some negative impacts on society and the environment. Mass tourism can cause overcrowding at popular tourist destinations, leading to environmental degradation and loss of cultural heritage. The UNWTO aims to promote sustainable tourism that benefits both tourists and local communities while minimizing negative impacts.

The Future of Tourism

The COVID-19 pandemic has severely affected the tourism industry worldwide. Travel restrictions have been imposed by many countries to control the spread of the virus.

However, with the introduction of vaccines and proper safety measures, the industry is gradually recovering. The UNWTO has launched various initiatives to help countries recover from the pandemic and promote sustainable tourism.

Conclusion

Tourism is a complex and dynamic industry that encompasses various types and impacts. It has become an important part of the global economy, contributing to job creation and foreign exchange earnings.

However, it also has negative impacts that need to be addressed through sustainable tourism practices. The future of tourism looks promising if we can balance its benefits with its impacts on society and the environment.