Travel and Tourism Industry Definition and Overview

Travel and tourism is becoming one of the largest, fastest growing industries in the world.The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) reported that in the year 2003 people around the world spent approximately $2.1 trillion on personal travel alone.To care for the needs of all these travelers worldwide, large amounts of money are invested to build hotels, restaurants, theme parks, resorts, conference centers, airlines and travel agencies.Tourism is vital for many cities, states and even countries.This is due to the income generated by the consumption of goods and services by tourism.The earning potential creates a large number of travel and tourism job opportunities which exist in restaurants, amusements parks, visitor bureaus, airline operations, travel agencies, ticketing and reservations, tourism planning and development, meeting and convention coordination, special events and tour itinerary planning.Typical tourist destinations such as coastal and tropical areas, mountains, famous and historical landmarks, etc, tend to provide the largest number of job opportunities.

Career opportunities

There are a large number of career opportunities and specializations available to individuals who want to enter the travel and tourism industry.One option is to work as a travel agent. Travel agents assess the needs of the clients and help them make the best possible travel arrangements, which includes transportation, hotel arrangements, tours, and entertainment and vacation packages.Working as a travel agent requires great customer service, sales and administrative skills. Many opportunities can also be found with the various cruise lines.Cruise lines hire a variety of different positions including entertainers, housekeepers, bartenders, chefs, waitresses, etc.Other careers in the travel and tourism industry include working at various resorts.These resorts may hire season staff, or staff to work all year long, during every season. Example resorts include ski, golf and tropical resorts, ranches, etc.Upscale restaurants, night clubs, and hotels in tourist hot spots also offer a large number of industry related positions.Other fun careers in travel and tourism include working at amusement parks, museums, water parks and concert venues.

Required Training, Experience and Education

There are a number of Travel & Hospitality schools that offer a range of certificate, Associate, Bachelor, Master's degrees and certified travel specialist programs.A popular program taken and degree obtained by those interested in working in the industry, is Hotel and Restaurant Management. A degree in this field prepares students for a career in hotel and/or restaurant management and provides the skills to move up the ladder. A complete understanding of the skills necessary to run a successful hotel and food service venue will be a focus. Programs will develop the understanding of both front room and front office procedures, a working knowledge of the kitchen preparation process and other essential behind-the-scenes operations.Some of the traits and skills necessary for a successful career in the tourism industry include: communication skills, customer service skills, sales and marketing techniques, empathy, perhaps being multi-lingual, computer literacy, knowledge of office technology, and a desire to continue learning after formal schooling.

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