Tourism Definitions

Tourism can be defined in various ways, depending on the perspective and context. Here are a few commonly used definitions of tourism:

World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Definition: "Tourism comprises 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."

International Air Transport Association (IATA) Definition: "Tourism refers to the activity of visitors taking a trip to a main destination outside their usual environment, for less than a year, for any main purpose (business, leisure, or other personal purpose) other than to be employed by a resident entity in the country or place visited."

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Definition: "Tourism is a social, cultural, and economic phenomenon which entails the movement of people to countries or places outside their usual environment for personal or business/professional purposes. These people are called visitors (which may be either tourists or excursionists; residents or non-residents) and tourism has to do with their activities, some of which imply tourism expenditure."

These definitions highlight common elements such as travel, staying in places outside one's usual environment, and the purposes of the visit (leisure, business, or other personal reasons). Tourism involves a range of activities, including transportation, accommodation, sightseeing, and engaging with the local culture and attractions. It is important to note that the specific definition used may vary depending on the organization or context in which it is being applied.