Tourism - international leisure migration

Abstract

Tourism is a complex industry. To fully appreciate the situation it is necessary to understand the history, social implications and the economic costs and benefits associated with it. As our world becomes increasingly industrialised, the numbers seekinq tourism as a form of leisure continue to grow. In 1971, only five per cent of the world's population crossed an international border, and only one per cent have ever flown in a plane. This means that there is still room for tremendous growth in the tourist industry. The social impacts of rampant or massive growth could prove completely devastating for the host communities. Throughout history, tourism has been characterised by rapid change. As Alvin Toffler so aptly points out, the rate of change in our world is speeding up. The industry that has evolved to cope with this element of change in tourism is extremely flexible. It is also very international in character and consequently shows no allegiance to any of the host countries. Tourist-promoting companies also have the power to create empty resorts leaving the host country in economic chaos. If we are to gain a real understanding of the existing tourist industry and guide its future development, careful consideration needs to be given to the issues involved. Providing it is based on social justice, tourism should be an experience beneficial to both hosts and guests. The sections which follow outline the history, growth and development of tourism in an attempt to foster these understandings.