Functions of tourism - combination of professional activities

Worldwide, tourism has in recent decades become firmly established as a major industry providing significant economic and employment benefits.

For example, in Australia, tourism accounts for 8% of employment and 5.8% of Gross Domestic Product and nearly 15% of export earnings. As well, forecasts for Australian inbound
tourism are very strong. There is, in some instances, the combination of interaction and phenomenon resulting from travelling and staying by non-residents, given that they take up residence and do not engage in any profitable business.

Tourism, is therefore, the combination of professional activities related to transport, accommodation, provisions and leisure activities offered to a tourist. The generally perceived importance of tourism for economic development reasons cannot be disputed. Statistical evidence depicts a remarkable increase in the number of international travellers from 25 million in 1950 to 425 million in 1990 - and over and above this figure in 1997. As such, tourism is a significant strategy for capital accumulations. Furthermore, current developments in international tourism markets - as well as domestic and national tourism - show increases in many countries.

The reason for travel may be different from the purpose. For instance, ‘one may need a rest’ or ‘the advertising was persuasive’, or simply ‘to accompany a friend’. Mere explanations do not necessarily clarify the intention or resolve for travel.